David moved to Fairbanks in 1977, graduated from North Pole High School (NPHS), and was a member of the Plumber and Pipefitters Local 375 until 1986. He then changed careers, joining an insurance company that would later become Willis of Alaska. David quickly advanced to President/CEO and, in 2007 when the company left Alaska, David made a significant investment in the community, forming Hale & Associates. David had always wanted to be in the restaurant business so in January 2012 he made that dream a reality and purchased majority ownership of Los Amigos Tex-Mex and Steakhouse and Sports Bar.

David is active in the Greater Fairbanks Chamber of Commerce and various trade associations. He gives generously in terms of time and financial support to youth sports, including coaching basketball at NPHS, donating funds for the NPHS gymnasium floor and score board, and co-chairing the School Bond committee. He’s also involved with Interior Youth Basketball Association, the youth activities at the Elks Lodge, and the State Insurance Association, serving as president two separate times. He is currently the National Director for the Independent Insurance Agents and Brokers of America.

David encourages his employees to be engaged in the community. The employees of Hale & Associates, spearheaded by David, raise money for KUAC’s annual fundraiser, volunteer for Breast Cancer Detection Center’s Gala Affair, and volunteer at Catholic School of Fairbanks’ annual HIPOW event. David’s leadership, professionalism, dedication to his business and our community exemplifies the characteristics deserving of this award.

Tickets are available to purchase online. Alternatively, contact Tammy Tragis-McCook at (907) 474-7042 or tammy.tragis@alaska.edu.