Fauske Earns Gallup Strengths Coaching Certificate
ANCHORAGE—Center for Economic Development associate director Gretchen Fauske earned her Gallup Strengths Coaching certification earlier this month.
Strengths coaches use Gallup’s CliftonStrengths assessment to identify clients’ unique talents, and work with them to leverage their strengths to overcome challenges and accomplish goals.
“I’m really excited to offer strengths coaching in Alaska to help people maximize their potential, both professionally and personally,” said Fauske. “When used with a team-building focus, especially in an entrepreneurial or startup context, it’s even more impactful.”
Gallup research finds that people who use their strengths are more engaged and productive at work and three times more likely than others to have an excellent quality of life. More than 90% of the Fortune 500 companies use CliftonStrengths. Currently, Fauske is one of two Gallup-certified strengths coaches residing in Alaska.
“We’ve known for some time that startup success has everything to do with the talents of the founder or founders,” said Nolan Klouda, CED Executive Director. “Good ideas matter less than good teams. Gretchen’s dedication to learning the fundamentals of strengths coaching will be a huge benefit to our clients and the entrepreneurship community at large.”
Current Issue
January 2026
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With the impending retirement of longtime GCI executive Paul Landes, leadership for overall consumer services transfers to Maureen Moore.
Walmart Pro Steps Up as New Boss for TOTE Maritime Alaska
Corey Nichols, previously a distribution official for Walmart, succeeds Art Dahlin as Vice President and Alaska General Manager for TOTE Maritime Alaska.
We’re honored again this year to celebrate our partnership with Junior Achievement of Alaska, a nonprofit that educates local youth about enterprise, business, money, and financial literacy. In the special section, three Junior Achievement of Alaska students weigh in on their experience with the exceptional volunteers and teachers involved with the program.
And in Industry Support, we explore the range of varied services that industry in Alaska requires, from mancamps to spill response to off-grid energy solutions.
Outside the special sections, make sure to check out the 2026 Economic forecast, where Alaska leaders share their insights on what may lie ahead in the coming year. Enjoy!