Rural workforce program Alaska Excel urges state funding; instructors and alumni describe results

Juneau — Multiple instructors, alumni and the co‑founder of Alaska Excel told the House Finance Committee on March 14 that the program produces industry certifications, college credits and workforce-ready students from rural Alaska and urged inclusion in the state operating budget.

Tony Wilson, director of education and community outreach for Alaska Excel, described the program as "a bridge between possibility and reality," providing career pathways in aviation, health sciences, welding, construction and public safety. Moses Wiseman, an Alaska Excel alumnus and current alumni board representative, said 92% of alumni remain in Alaska in work, college, trade school or military service.

The nut graf: Witnesses offered metrics (credit hours, certificates and internships) and personal stories showing career trajectories from remote villages to skilled work and higher education. Carol Wilson, Alaska Excel co‑founder and executive director, reported the program served 902 students across 13 districts in the most recent academic year and issued 858 high‑school credits, 390 industry certificates and 45 dual college credits.

Instructors and students said programs are currently operating without state funding and asked legislators to include Alaska Excel in the operating budget to expand sites and sustain programs.

Ending: Committee members heard that Alaska Excel targets students from off‑road districts and emphasizes retaining talent in-state; multiple witnesses asked that the governor’s proposed funding be included in the Legislature’s plan.