ANCHORAGE, AK -- September 19, 1997 -- Bob Malone, Alyeska Pipeline President and CEO/COO, announced today that by the end of October Commissioner Willie Hensley will join Alyeska Pipeline Service Company as its Section 29 program manager. The position is accountable for managing the strategic direction of Alyeska's Alaska Native Utilization program. Mr. Hensley will serve as liaison between TAPS personnel, the Alaska Native community and various government officials for the purpose of enhancing utilization of Alaska Natives in the work force for the Trans Alaska Pipeline System. The program includes training, placement, counseling, mentoring , education, scholarship, outreach and employment opportunity programs.

Mr. Hensley has served as the Commissioner of the Alaska Department of Commerce and Economic Development since January 1996. Prior to that, Mr. Hensley served as an executive of NANA Regional Corporation. Mr. Hensley's active public service has included terms in the Alaska Legislature as a representative and a senator. He was President of the Alaska Federation of Natives from 1971 to 1973 and continues to serve as co-chairman of their Board of Directors. Mr. Hensley has been active in public and community service during his entire adult life. He currently is on the Koahnic Broadcasting and Charter College Boards of Directors.

Bob Malone said, "We are extremely pleased that a person of Willie's skill and experience has agreed to join Alyeska, to guide us in meeting our commitment to recruit, train and employ Alaska Natives in the TAPS work force. Our program also has an educational component that provides a variety of opportunities for Alaska Natives to continue their education and improve their skills for today's job market. Willie's strong management and executive background and his extensive knowledge of Alaska and Alaska Natives makes him an ideal selection for the position and for an executive leadership role within Alyeska."

Mr. Hensley said, "I am very excited about joining Alyeska. The pipeline is an absolutely critical part of Alaska's economy, both now and in the future. This is a challenge that is right for me at this point in my life."

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