With over two decades of experience handling the electrical infrastructure for Alyeska Pipeline Services, Rod Rhoades said his new job as superintendent of electrical utilities is challenging and invigorating.

"There's nothing boring about the job. My days go by quick and it's easy to mark accomplishments," he said.

Rhoades was hired by the city about a month ago, starting his first day of work on Dec. 10. He grew up in Southeast Alaska, on Zarembo Island, Woronofski, and later Whale Pass. For a good portion of his adult life, however, he and his family have lived in Valdez, working for Al...