I attended the project launch of Paneok, an educational nonprofit in Anchorage. They connect rural Alaskan youth with aviation training, mentorship, scholarships and career opportunities.
According to their website, “Through Ellen Paneok’s pioneering spirit we support clear pathways for the next generation to learn, lead and take flight.”
My friend, Jamie Klaes, helped start this nonprofit. I met Jamie when I lived in Bettles back in the day. She is passionate about flying and creating opportunities for rural Alaskan youth. I have admired her tenacity, along with that of the whole team who made this possible.
The launch was held at Merrill Field, the same Anchorage airport where Ellen Paneok learned to fly. Hearing airplanes in the background made it a fitting place to celebrate her legacy and the next generation of Alaska aviators. Members of Ellen’s family were also there to be part of the celebration.
We heard from some amazing supporters who shared stories about the late Ellen Paneok, a pioneering Alaska Native pilot. I can’t believe I hadn’t heard about this legendary Alaska Native woman before this event. It was inspiring to hear about her life and the many ways she broke barriers, mentored others and made an impact on Alaska aviation.
Sen. Lisa Murkowski described Ellen as a “Renaissance woman,” whose passion for flying was only one part of a remarkable life defined by courage, mentorship and service. Other speakers reflected on how Paneok will carry that spirit forward by helping young Alaskans see themselves in aviation—and giving them the opportunity to believe, “I might belong here.”
There is much more to Ellen Paneok’s story than I can capture here, and she is well worth learning more about. What stood out to me at the launch was how clearly her spirit still resonates with the people who knew her—and how intentionally this new nonprofit is working to carry that legacy forward.
Watch the video:
It was especially meaningful to see several young Alaskans there who are already pursuing aviation careers. Jamie introduced them and proudly shared some of their accomplishments at the end of the video.
Congratulations to Jamie, Kate and the entire Paneok team on a successful launch. It was especially meaningful to see Ellen’s family there and to witness how proud they were of what is being built in her name.
