Tank or thrive? Corporate 100 leaders key to survival.

• Author: Cutler, Debbie
• Position: ALASKA BUSINESS MONTHLY'S 2011 CORPORATE 100 - Editorial

OK, I'll admit it. I'm scared. I'm afraid our economy will tank if we don't do more in the way of oil and gas exploration. I'm afraid environmentalists will stop development of major job-producing projects that benefit the state as a whole as well as individuals in the regions where work is ongoing or potential work planned. And I'm afraid Alaska will not recover and we will be taxed to death, lose our dividends and do without vital services and growth opportunities.

But then I look at a list like the Corporate 100 and see many Champions of Industry, those that show Power, Performance and Productivity. They are good corporate citizens, employ thousands upon thousands of individuals, and provide much benefit to the state.

And I think: Diversification. And I think: We can do it!

One thing Alaska has always had is backbone, forward thinking and ability to change.

We've been through our own recession, but now remain independent and strong despite the economic horrors of the Lower 48. Let's face it, with brainpower like executives in these top...