Tower of strength: once a village health aide, Quintavel takes the reins of large corporation.

• Author: Grenn, Ben
• Position: Alaska Native: BUSINESS NEWS - Arctic Slope Regional Corp. - Bobbi Quintavell - Viewpoint essay

She's as confident as the day is long. But her humble beginnings are a constant reminder that keeps this Native leader in check and well-grounded.

She is also feeling optimistic and energized.

"I have a great staff and a great board ... ASRC has a bright future," said the new leader of Arctic Slope Regional Corp.

Her name is Roberta. But she's more comfortable just being called "Bobbi."

She has climbed the corporate ladder and now occupies the top rung. By her unassuming demeanor and modest presence, you wouldn't have a notion that this youthful woman oversees the largest Native corporation in Alaska.

Roberta "Bobbi" Quintavell feels comfortable in her new surroundings as president and CEO of ASRC, yet she dearly holds on to her roots.

"The fact that our cultural values are so grounded keeps me grounded. Our Inupiaq values help us make better decisions for the growth of the company.

"What I really enjoy is participating in subsistence activities. I find it tremendously rewarding to be ugruk hunting in the summer, walrus hunting and caribou hunting," says the 45-year-old Quintavell.

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"I really enjoy teaching my children, my grandchildren, nieces and nephews how important it is to respect the land and the animals that we subsist off of. It's that kind of grounding that keeps my life real."

BIG SHOES

Quintavell knows she has some big shoes to fill after being named to replace outgoing president Jacob Adams. Adams, a longtime Native community leader, stepped down after 23 years as ASRC's chief boss. In addition to managing a large business, he is a political and cultural leader, a former borough mayor, assembly chairman and whaling captain.

"I don't feel added pressure-no more that anyone else would feel if they were in my position," says Quintavell. "But I also recognize the fact that if it weren't for the accomplishments of the women that came before me, I may not feel the way I do today, because there have been many strong women inside of ASRC, inside of our development as Inupiat people."

As ASRC's retired president and CEO, Adams had nothing but praise for his successor.

"Bobbi Quintavell will lead the ASRC with the same commitment and values that I have, while at the same time bringing a new perspective to the role," said Adams.

"Her combination of work experience, education, dedication and drive made her stand out as a candidate for the most senior position within the corporation.

"I also am confident in the board's ability to remain true to our Inupiaq values while capitalizing on the fresh talent, vigor and abilities of our younger generation."

"It was Jake (Adams) who inspired me to go to college," said Quintavell. "I was at an annual shareholders' meeting when I heard him tell us that the next ASRC president would be a college...