Chandler Satkowiak completed surface and underground mining training this spring through the University of Alaska’s Mining and Petroleum Service. Days later, he left for a promising new job at Greens Creek Mine in Juneau.

“The mine is mind-blowing,” Satkowiak said.

As a tribal member, he received support with airfare getting to and from the camp. 

“Without the tribe helping me out, I would not be 19 years old, working the job I am, making the money I make,” Satkowiak said.

The program trains students for work in Alaska mines, although some go on to work internationally, according to Bill Bieber, MAPTS Executive Director. Bieber was on hand when Satkowiak thanked the Tribal Council in person for their support.

Bieber said that 70 percent of the program’s students are Alaska Native people. He said students learn the important life skills that help them balance the demands of mine work with family and personal time.  

 

Bieber said the program can help students find financial support. The tribe also offers scholarships that can be applied to the costs of MAPTS or other continuing education.

For more information about MAPTS, visit their website at http://www.mapts.alaska.edu .

For more information about tribal scholarships, call the Education and Career Development department at 335-7606.