Operations Team
CEO - Jason Underhill
Jason Underhill moved to Alaska in 1974, living off-grid and learning self-sustaining skills. He co-developed remote communities, gaining construction expertise. In 1997, he helped start a sawmill business, and in 2005, launched his own construction company, focusing on remote Alaskan projects. In 2025, he founded the Alaska Building Arts and Science organization. Jason lives with his family, continuing to contribute to Alaska community development.
Business Advisor - Preston Miller
Executive Assistant - Michelle Hattingh
Michelle Hattingh uses her skills in networking, communication, and social media to enhance the organization's visibility. Her past success in managing and expanding businesses in the holistic health and beauty industries informs her current role, where she promotes sustainable building practices and community education.
Preston Miller, P.Eng, MBA, is recognized for driving business innovation and operational excellence. With extensive experience in mining, he has focused on optimizing processes, enhancing performance through strategic reporting, and leading initiatives that blend innovation with practical execution for improved business outcomes.
Board of Directors
President - Fred Sheen
Fred Sheen, originally from upstate New York, moved to Alaska in 1985 and now lives in Delta Junction. With 35 years of experience as a lineman, he is nearing retirement but remains dedicated to community service. Fred envisions ABAS’ growth and success, contributing to a team that expands daily.
Director - Preston Cavner
Secretary - Stacey Fritz, PhD
Stacey Fritz, PhD, specializes in arctic infrastructure and a longtime resident of Fairbanks, and manages Alaska Adaptable Housing to promote sustainable housing solutions for northern communities. With a background at the Cold Climate Housing Research Center and NREL Alaska Campus, she conducts housing security research, integrates social science into innovative building projects, and addresses logistical challenges in the remote Arctic. Her extensive experience includes facilitating tribal consultations, analyzing sociocultural and environmental justice impacts, and mitigating industrial development effects, informed by her doctoral research on the DEW Line legacies and a decade in Arctic public land management.
Preston Cavner has called the Alaskan bush in western Alaska home since relocating to the state in the mid-1990s. With over 25 years of experience, he is a licensed pilot and marine captain, deeply engaged in both the aviation and marine industries. Preston has built and operated a fishing and tender vessel for commercial fishing seasons, showcasing his hands-on expertise. His extensive knowledge spans remote construction, logistics, and barge work, making him a vital contributor to Alaska’s rugged and challenging environments.
Member - Casey Perkins
Casey Perkins, originally from Nome and now residing in Anchorage, Alaska, is committed to enhancing community life across the state. He runs a small contracting business and specializes in providing logistical services to rural Alaskan communities.
Treasurer- Dora Jones
Dora Jones, from Anchorage, Alaska, has over 25 years of experience in accounting, focusing on serving nonprofit tribes throughout the state. Her expertise encompasses securing grants and maintaining compliance with critical reporting standards.