www.AKRDC.org 7 VOLUME 1 | ISSUE 2 | SUMMER 2024 lation and technological evolution. This is where RDC plays a pivotal role in ensuring safe and responsible resource development. So that Alaska’s needs are met for our sustainability, while we address the nation’s energy, food, and mineral independence requirements in the global the supply chain, perhaps better referred to as the supply web. The last year at RDC has gone by in a blur, a good blur. It has been a productive year and I want to thank the board, the officers and Leila, Jennifer and Connor for their work and commitment. RDC staff has grown and tackled numerous legislative and policy issues. We also changed the format in time and style of the Annual Resources conference and saw a record attendance coming out of Covid. This included the young professionals reception which was well attended despite occurring on one of those very snowy days we had last fall. Additionally, in an effort to extend beyond Anchorage we had our annual legislative fly-in and Woman in Resources reception in Juneau during the session. RDC helped to organize the first Alaska Resources Day in our nation’s Capital, which was well attended by more than 200 legislators, staff, policy makers and dignitaries. Additionally, our May Board meeting in Fairbanks included a great tour of the Fort Knox Mine. I believe such outreach around the state helps with awareness of RDC issues and connect with members outside of the Anchorage bowl. We are also seeing the new generation of leaders becoming involved in RDC as well, this is critical to our future effectiveness and the future of the state. RDC provides platforms for voices from all corners of our industries to be heard. We work hard to sustain and expand our membership base, push to inform the public, policy makers, and students on resource issues, and engage with a broad spectrum of stakeholders to drive positive change for resource development in Alaska. I’m extremely proud of the board of directors I was able to work with this year, all of whom worked hard to find common ground and work towards common goals. It is through this collective effort that we have been able to make a meaningful difference in shaping policies and initiatives that support economic growth, environmental stewardship, and community prosperity across our great state. The strength of RDC is in our diverse membership. Issues from differing viewpoints can be discussed, evaluated, and acted on for positive change. Our shared commitment to the responsible development of Alaska’s natural resources for the benefit of all Alaskans is at the core of this work. The solid leadership at the board and officer levels working with the strong management will no doubt set a good course for the future. I have confidence and optimism for the future of the RDC and Alaska. Critical to success will be listening to all stakeholders and keeping a sense of perspective for how all communities can contribute to, are impacted by, and can benefit from natural resource development. Next year, 2025 will be the 50th year of RDC. What will the next 50 years look like and how can we shape that future? Lance Miller on a mine site in Eastern Russia in the late 1990s, when collaboration with the U.S. seemed a real possibility.
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