Jim Szczesniak.

• Position: OFF THE CUFF

Ted Stevens Anchorage International Airport's new Airport Director only touched down in the state a few short years ago. And with Anchorage International among the top five cargo airports in the world, Jim Szczesniak had his work cut out for him. Fortunately things have worked out pretty well since then: for both the Chicago-native and one of Alaska's leading drivers of business.

"I've certainly been busy," he laughs.

The pandemic has caused a few bumpy rides for other industries, but air cargo has been something of a bright spot. Szczesniak and his team have been hard at work on developing, managing, and leading the airport that serves more than 5 million passengers each year.

You gotta wonder how he still finds time to cheer on his Blackhawks.

Alaska Business: What do you do in your free time?

Jim Szczesniak: I'll do anything outdoorsy--hiking, skiing, fishing, boating, kayaking, Whitewater rafting--anything that's outside and seems like fun, I'm into it.

AB: Is there a skill you're currently developing or have always wanted to learn?

Szczesniak: I live in Eagle River, so I see a lot of paragliders around and I'm definitely interested in learning how to paraglide.

AB: What's the most daring thing you've ever done?

Szczesniak: So my dad did the Running of the Bulls in Pamplona and I did the Running of the Reindeer in Alaska. Those reindeer get pretty close to ya.

AB: What's your favorite local restaurant?

Szczesniak: Depends on my mood but usually either Marx Brothers or Club Paris.

AB: Other than your current career, if you were a kid today, what would your dream job be?

Szczesniak: NHL goalie (when I play hockey, I'm a goalie so that's my thing).

AB: What's your favorite way to exercise?

Szczesniak: Ice hockey.

AB: Dead or alive, who would you like to see perform live in concert?

Szczesniak: Queen. I'm a huge Zeppelin fan but...