GENUINE ALASKA POLLOCK PRODUCERS - Key Persons
Job Titles:
- Captain of the Northern Jaeger, American Seafoods
Ben Heys is the dedicated Captain at the helm of the Northern Jaeger, a formidable vessel that plies the frigid waters of the Bering Sea in pursuit of Wild Alaska Pollock. His journey into this challenging profession began at the young age of 19 when he decided to venture northward to Alaska, a decision that would define his life.
Having spent years in the industry, Ben knows the importance of teamwork among the captains, mates, and crew members on various vessels, even though they belong to different companies. Despite these differences, they all function as a cohesive unit, sharing valuable knowledge and supporting one another. In this tight-knit community, the goal is simple: success for all.
For Ben, his job is more than just a career; it's a passion. He takes immense pride in knowing that his work helps to provide sustenance for millions of people worldwide. Yet, the true reward comes when he guides the Northern Jaeger back into Seattle after a grueling four-month season. Witnessing the emotional reunions of crew members with their families, knowing they're safe and better off for their endeavors, fills him with a profound sense of accomplishment and purpose.
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- Assistant Director of Alaska Groundfish Association
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- CEO of Kodiak Electric Association
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- Manager of Environmental Compliance, UniSea
As the EC Manager, she is responsible for company-wide compliance with State and Federal permitting and reporting, as well as supervising process engineering studies to assess and enhance operational efficiency for pollution prevention, environmental initiatives, and sustainability.
Job Titles:
- Quality Control Inspector on the Kaity Ann, American Seafoods
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- Fleet Regulation and Compliance Officer, American Seafoods
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- Production Manager, Kodiak Plant, Trident Seafoods
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- Captain of the Sovereignty
Hello, I'm Jeff Crain I work for Trident Seafoods as the Captain of the Sovereignty, a 165 foot pollock trawler. I lived in Alaska until my early teens before moving to Washington State with my family. I was just 17 years old when I took a job butchering crab in Dutch Harbor earning $2.10 per hour. While it wasn't much, it brought me back to the state I love and launched an amazing career in the fishing industry.
Job Titles:
- Northrim Bank / President of the Kodiak Chamber of Commerce
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- Director of Alaska Groundfish Association
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- Captain of the Bering Defender, Global Seas
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- Director of Alaska Operations at Unisea
Meet Ron Kjorsvik, Director of Alaska Operations at Unisea. During our 'People of Wild Alaska Pollock' campaign, we had the privilege of catching up with Ron in Dutch Harbor. His dedication and leadership at Unisea's processing facility are commendable. From ensuring top-quality Wild Alaska Pollock to supporting the community, Ron's efforts are truly inspiring.
During our time in Dutch Harbor for the 'People of Wild Alaska Pollock' campaign, we had the privilege of connecting with Travis McClellan, an unforgettable member of our Wild Alaska Pollock family. Unfortunately, since the time we were able to meet Travis, he has passed away, leaving an indelible mark on all of us.
Travis's journey began with a Bachelor's in Criminal Justice from Appalachian State University, later earning his Chief Engineer credentials through the U.S. Coast Guard. For nearly four years, he lent his remarkable skills as Chief Engineer aboard the Sovereignty, forging deep bonds with Captain Jeff Crain and the entire crew.
Beyond his professional achievements, Travis was a beacon of warmth, wit, and unwavering loyalty. His inquisitive spirit, love of adventure, and ready laugh brightened the days of many. Travis's legacy is one of kindness, friendship, and boundless inspiration, forever etched in the Wild Alaska Pollock community.
Meet Nick Crain, deckhand on the Sovereignty, Trident Seafoods. What makes his journey even more special is the fact that he's not alone. Nick actually works alongside his dad, Captain Jeff Crain of the Sovereignty. In an industry where tradition and expertise are paramount, the Crains exemplify how it can be a family affair.
Job Titles:
- Marketing Manager, Delta Western Fuel
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- Senior Manager, Operations, Trident Seafoods
Ruthie Anderson brings more than 30 years of experience in the fishing industry to her position as Trident's Senior Manager, Operations, for Anchorage and Dutch Harbor. In this role Ruthie oversees fleet and plant support operations throughout Alaska, including crew travel, freighter offloads, product packaging, and freight.
Prior to joining Trident, Ruthie worked as HR manager at Pacific Stevedoring in Dutch Harbor. She also worked at Aleutian Spray Fisheries for 16 years, supporting the vessels in recruiting, logistics, and many other areas as an HR manager.
Ruthie moved to Alaska at a young age and spent over a decade living in Dutch Harbor. This unique opportunity gave her an appreciation of the beauty and complexity of the fishing industry. Throughout her career she has served as a vocal advocate for this essential workforce, helping people to develop and advance their careers. Ruthie is known for her strong work ethic, sense of accountability, friendliness, and the ability to connect with diverse cultures. Outside of work you can find her pursuing her sense of adventure; recent favorites include hiking, standup paddle boarding, "trying to surf," and taking cold plunges in the beautiful waterfalls of Dutch Harbor.
Job Titles:
- Captain of the F / V Topaz
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- Safety Specialist, American Seafoods
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- Chief Engineer, Trident Seafoods' Sovereignty
- Member of the Wild Alaska Pollock
During our 'People of Wild Alaska Pollock' campaign, we met Travis McClellan, a cherished member of the Wild Alaska Pollock community. Sadly, since then, Travis has passed away. Travis served aboard the Sovereignty for four years, forming deep bonds with Captain Jeff Crain and the crew. His spirit and love of adventure touched us all. Travis's legacy of kindness and inspiration will always live on.