News and Announcements
Federal Spending Shifts Reshape Alaska’s Economic Outlook
On May 1, 2025, Commonwealth North, ISER, and Build Alaska’s Future co-hosted a virtual economic forum featuring ISER economists discussing Alaska’s economic trajectory in light of federal policy changes by the current administration. Titled “How Shifting Federal Dollars Impact Alaska’s Economy,” the event underscored the state’s heavy reliance on federal funds, the growing role of the Alaska Permanent Fund in state revenue, and the challenges posed by ongoing federal policy shifts. After opening remarks by Dr. Scott Goldsmith, former ISER Director and economist, Drs. Brett Watson, Mike Jones, and Brock Wilson presented perspectives on the impact of shifting federal dollars on [...]
BERING STRAIT VESSEL TRAFFIC: The Forefront of Change in the Arctic
BERING STRAIT VESSEL TRAFFIC: The Forefront of Change in the Arctic When: May 9, 2025 12PM-1PM Where: Rasmuson Hall: Room 220 3416 Seawolf Drive, Anchorage, AK 99508 Or via Zoom: http://bit.ly/4im5GQ3 The Arctic is warming at a rapid pace, and the reduction in sea ice has allowed for increased maritime interests and activity. With the Bering Strait serving as a bottleneck to both vessels and maritime mammals, there are heightened risks to the environment and for local communities. Ms. Block will discuss how policy can affect how vessels transit within the Bering Strait, current geopolitical tensions within the Arctic, and opportunities [...]
Virtual Economic Forum: How Federal Dollars Impact Alaska’s Economy
HOW SHIFTING FEDERAL DOLLARS IMPACT ALASKA'S ECONOMY What happens in D.C. doesn’t stay in D.C. — it directly affects Alaska’s economy. Join us for a fast-paced and fascinating Economic Forum that dives into the outsized impact of shifting federal dollars on Alaska’s economy. From workforce and infrastructure to natural resources and supply chains, hear from the experts tracking how federal spending affects every corner of the state. Whether you’re in the public sector, private industry, or simply passionate about Alaska’s future — this is the event for you. Program Highlights Opening Remarks: Dr. Scott Goldsmith Professor Emeritus, Institute of Social and [...]
Working to Alleviate Alaska’s Avgas Anxiety
AACA Testifies to the Alaska House Transportation Committee The Executive Director of the AACA, Will Day, collaborated with Troy LaRue, Director of Alaska's Statewide Aviation Division of the DOT, Dan Knesek from Grant Aviation, and Dr. Mike Jones of UAA’s Institute of Social and Economic Research. Together, they informed Alaska's House Transportation Committee about the effects of unreliable AWOS and ASOS systems throughout the state. Watch the testimony. Working to Alleviate Alaska’s Avgas Anxiety As part of its goal to achieve net-zero carbon emissions by 2050, the aviation industry is working to find and implement a replacement for 100 low-lead fuel. [...]
Economic Contributions of Federal Civilian Workers in Alaska
On March 12, Brock Wilson presented to the House Judiciary Committee on federal employment in Alaska. During the presentation, he discussed key insights related to the economic contributions of federal civilian workers in Alaska, emphasizing the role federal employees play in critical industries and the state's economy. His focus was on analyzing the reliance on federal workers, the impact of potential reductions in federal employment, and how these changes could disproportionately affect Alaskan industries. The session was an opportunity to share valuable research and engage in discussions about the potential effects of federal workforce changes on the Alaskan economy. Economic Contributions [...]
New study examines EV feasibility in rural Alaska
A new study sheds light on the benefits and implications of the use of electric vehicles in rural Alaska. Electric vehicles, or EVs, are widely thought to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Many rural communities in Alaska are not connected to larger electric grids. They use diesel fuels to generate most of their electricity and face extremely cold conditions not experienced elsewhere. Would those communities benefit from EVs? University of Alaska researchers partnered with the communities of Kotzebue, Galena and Bethel to find out where, how and for whom EVs can provide benefits. Please see New study examines EV feasibility in rural [...]