Fairbanks Chamber Weekly Business Luncheon: Iron Dog Returns to Fairbanks 7/1/2025

Iron Dog is coming back to Fairbanks! Join us to hear from Executive Director Rick Paquette about the history of Iron Dog and the impact it will have on the community! 
 

Rick Paquette is the Executive Director of Iron Dog Race Inc., home of the world’s longest, toughest snowmobile race. Rick was stationed at Elmendorf Air Force Base as an Air Transportation Airman, where he first discovered his love for Alaska’s rugged landscapes and adventurous spirit. After leaving the service, he returned to his hometown in Massachusetts, but it didn’t take long before the call of the mountains brought him back to Alaska. Born in Wyoming and raised in New England, Rick has always felt a strong connection to the American West and the freedom it represents. In his early twenties, he made Alaska his permanent home, drawn by his passion for the outdoors. He enjoys fishing, hunting, and exploring everything the state has to offer, often accompanied by his wife, son, and their three dogs. Professionally, Rick spent the majority of his career in commercial aviation with Pegasus Aviation Services for over 15 years. Starting in operations, he helped grow the company from a small team focused on deicing and airline maintenance into one of Alaska’s premier aviation service providers. He advanced rapidly, eventually serving as Director of Ground Handling and General Manager for United Airlines in Anchorage. During this time, he led the negotiation, drafting, and execution of some of the company's most high-profile contracts. He also served as Treasurer for the Airline Operating Committee at Ted Stevens International Airport. After leaving Pegasus, Rick took on the role of Vice President of Business Development at NursesforNurses.org, where he continues to contribute as a consultant. Today, his full-time focus is leading Iron Dog, with a mission to grow and elevate this iconic race while preserving its legacy and tough, adventurous spirit.