Doctor Schroeder advocates for ANSEP funding to transform Alaska's workforce

The Alaska House Finance Committee meeting on March 12, 2025, featured compelling testimonies advocating for the continued funding of the Alaska Native Science and Engineering Program (ANSEP). Dr. Herb Schroeder, the program's founder, emphasized the transformative potential of ANSEP, which has successfully supported over 3,000 students from diverse backgrounds across Alaska since its inception in 1995. He highlighted the program's efficiency, noting that it costs less than $100,000 per degree, significantly lower than the nearly $300,000 per degree cost associated with traditional university pathways.

Dr. Schroeder pointed out the financial implications of student dropouts, revealing that the state incurred substantial costs for students who did not complete their degrees. He argued that expanding ANSEP could save the state millions and improve the workforce by producing more qualified graduates who are likely to remain in Alaska.

Pamela Giebert, a lifelong Alaskan and mother of three ANSEP participants, echoed Dr. Schroeder's sentiments. She urged the committee to maintain full funding for the program, stressing its importance in fostering local talent for major industries in Alaska, including oil, gas, and healthcare. Giebert highlighted the need for homegrown graduates who understand and are committed to the state, reinforcing the idea that investing in education is crucial for Alaska's future.

The testimonies underscored a shared belief in the necessity of supporting educational programs like ANSEP to ensure that Alaskan students have the resources and opportunities to succeed. The committee's decisions regarding funding will have significant implications for the state's educational landscape and workforce development.