Boosting Growth: Combatting Departure of Skilled Workers with Job Training Programs

Rebuilding Alaska's Population: A Focus on Education, Workforce Development, and Innovation

In August 2025, a guest author piece for MTA's latest news highlighted the importance of various strategies in rebuilding Alaska's population. The article, penned by Matthew Langhoff, MTA's Chief Operating Officer, emphasised the need for investing in workforce development and education, fostering a culture of innovation and resilience, and creating clear career pathways.

Langhoff, who holds a professional certification from the Anchorage Society for Human Resources Management, is credited with blending HR with broader administrative services at MTA. Under his leadership, the organisation has been instrumental in initiatives like the Youth Technology Tour, a community outreach program designed to introduce students from rural communities to tech careers.

The Youth Technology Tour aims to spark interest and excitement in tech careers, which have enormous potential in Alaska. With the loss of residents, particularly young people, to other states negatively impacting local businesses and industries, initiatives like this are crucial for maintaining a pool of qualified workers.

MTA is not only investing in education but also in training programs that combine classroom-supported learning with paid internship apprenticeships. In 2024, alongside MTA, GCI and Alaska Communications collaborated to raise awareness of these programs, offering competitive wages and benefits to participants.

Reliable internet and phone service are essential for work, school, healthcare, and emergency communication in Alaska, and maintaining and upgrading networks requires skilled technicians familiar with the state's unique geography and challenges. Highlighting Alaska's natural beauty, tight-knit communities, and unique lifestyle can show why Alaska is worth choosing, attracting and retaining talent in the process.

Internships provide local students and early-career professionals with real-world experience and opportunities to build connections in the industry. Clear and meaningful career pathways are essential for retaining talent in Alaska. Companies offering roles that lead to real advancement and stability provide a reason for individuals to stay in Alaska.

Investing in local education and training by businesses and organizations contributes to a stronger, more sustainable talent pipeline. By creating pathways for former residents to return home, investing in workforce development and education, and fostering a culture of innovation and resilience, Alaska can rebuild its population and sustain its growth.

Boosting Growth: Combatting Departure of Skilled Workers with Job Training Programs