YWCA Alaska names Chugach Commercial Holdings president Gwen Welch a Woman of Achievement

YWCA Alaska honored Gwen Welch, president of Chugach Commercial Holdings, on Oct. 19 as one of 10 women at its 37th annual Women of Achievement Awards Luncheon at Anchorage's Hotel Captain Cook. The unit, part of Chugach Alaska Corporation, an Alaska Native corporation, runs companies providing energy, industrial and environmental services in Alaska, Hawaii and Illinois.

Welch, a lifelong Alaskan, joined Chugach's finance organization in 2002 and became president of the commercial holdings unit in January. According to Chugach's announcement, the unit completed four acquisitions in two years, expanding its oil and gas and specialty contracting work. "Growing the business means growing our people," Welch said in the announcement.

The announcement also credits her with mentoring future leaders, encouraging women to lead in industries where they remain underrepresented and volunteering alongside employees to support Clare House, Covenant House Alaska, Salvation Army holiday meal distributions and local food assistance programs.

Two other Chugach leaders are past honorees: board chair Sheri Buretta and Chief Financial Officer Angie Astle, who was honored in 2024. Chugach is a longtime sponsor of the luncheon.