I’m Tonia Rose Goodlataw, and I’m excited to share my journey with you. My story begins with my parents, Toni Goodlataw and Wayne Bell. My paternal grandparents were Loyd and Mary Bell (John). Although my maternal grandparents, Miranda Billum and Alvin Goodlataw, passed away before I was born, their legacy continued through my mother’s aunt, Frances Billum. My mom was adopted by Frances, and she was the grandma that I grew up with. She taught me about tradition, inner strength, family and everything in between that I needed to know before becoming emancipated at age 16.

I am of the Tsedi Na’ Tribe (originally Taral Village) and belong to the Taltsiine (Water) clan. Growing up in Tsedi Na’, my life was deeply intertwined with traditional practices. I spent my afternoons after school checking traps, skinning animals, and preparing parts for future traps. Summers were a time for working alongside my family, cutting fish or moose, which ingrained in me a deep appreciation for our cultural heritage.

Today, I work for Alaska Ventures, LLC, the Alaska division of Edison Chouest Offshore (ECO), where we’re contracted through Alyeska Pipeline Service Company and work closely with Ship Escort Response Vessel System (SERVS) team. My journey with Alaska Ventures began in a way I never anticipated. At the time, I was applying for a part-time janitorial job while raising three young children. During my interview, the hiring manager noted my resume and suggested I consider a role more suited to my experience.

Surprised, I explained that my main focus was to spend time with my kids, and it was more economical for us to live in Valdez while working fewer hours. To my surprise, he offered me a better position with the promise that I could still prioritize my family.

I started as a receptionist and have since moved into my current role, where I focus on training and the Alaska Native Utilization Agreement (ANUA) program. This role allows me to recruit Alaskan Natives and support them in their careers. Despite my busy schedule, I’ve managed to keep the promise of making my family a priority, and my team has become like a second family to me.

I feel incredibly fortunate to love what I do. My role allows me to travel across Alaska and meet Alaskan Natives from all over the state. I’m honored to have conversations about their individual stories, dreams, and goals. These interactions deepen my understanding of myself, Alaska Natives, and the many beautifully complex cultures we have that are all built on a sturdy foundation of love, tradition and faith.

For those interested in a career with Alaska Ventures, I’m here to guide you through the process. This includes applying for marine credentials, navigating the pre-employment phases, and completing a 90-day training program in Louisiana before starting work in Valdez, Alaska. It’s a thorough process, but I encourage everyone not to give up—anything worth having requires effort.

Seeing new employees reach milestones like buying a vehicle, securing a mortgage, or taking vacations is incredibly rewarding. It reaffirms my commitment to helping others achieve their career goals and build a better future.

If working in the maritime field interests you, please contact Shareholder Enrichment about a future with Edison Chouest Offshore! No experience is necessary.

Ahtna’s Shareholder Enrichment staff is available to assist in connecting you with this and other training opportunities: call Starr Knighten at 907-822-3476 (Glennallen) or Tracy Parent at 907-868-8250 (Anchorage) or email shenrichment@ahtna.net.