Fairbanks Tall Timbers Series: Matt Atkinson

The Fairbanks Tall Timber Series honors those who have served the Fairbanks community well. Join veteran newsman Robert Hannon as he interviews Matt Atkinson. Matt, a Fairbanks native, was always an ardent hockey enthusiast, playing for two USHL teams, the Rochester Mustangs and the Dubuque Fighting Saints. In 1986, Matt and two Fairbanks college friends developed a business plan for their summer employment – small group tours by van to the Arctic Circle. Northern Alaska Tour Company was born and expanded to include northern camps for polar bear viewing. This summer-only business expanded to year-round when winter trips were added with aurora viewing. They partnered with Sukakpak Inc. to include remote camps in Coldfoot, Deadhorse, and along the Yukon River. In 2012, the business expanded with the purchase of Warbelow's Air Ventures for Denali flightseeing and more. Today, 35 years later, the award-winning business is thriving as it expands and continues to make significant contributions to the Fairbanks economy.