Michael Burke.

Michael Burke was named the CEO at MTA in September 2015 and brings with him more than thirty-five years of experience with telecommunications and technology matters. He has worked in senior management for a diverse number of companies, including the Anchorage Telephone Utility, TelAlaska, and Alaska Fiber Star/WCI Cable. In addition, prior to MTA, Burke ran his own management/utility consulting company for fourteen years, where he worked on a number of regulatory and strategic projects and also served as an expert witness before regulatory agencies in Alaska, California, and Hawaii. Burke has a BA in accounting from Seattle University and is a CPA in the State of Alaska. [Editor's Note: Sending a Hulk-sized thank you to BOSCO's for supporting our super-secret mission to capture Michael Burke's image at your command center]

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

Michael Burke: I enjoy fishing and hiking, just enjoying the Alaska outdoors. Snorkeling in Hawaii in the winter is also fun.

AB: Is there a skill or talent you've always wanted to learn or are learning?

Burke: I wish I could paint or draw better. It has fascinated me how people can put an image down on canvas.

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

Burke: Walked five feet in front of a brown bear while out fishing in rural Alaska.

AB: What's your go to comfort food?

Burke: Mac and cheese.

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

Burke: I have always loved the sciences and wanted at one time to be a marine biologist.

AB: What is your favorite way to get exercise?

Burke: Hiking or walking in the outdoors.

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

Burke: The Eagles.

AB: What is your greatest extravagance?

Burke: I am pretty simple and drive a car...