Alaska USA Business Spotlight article on Alaska Energy Services

Alaska Energy Services began as a true leasing company specializing in the rental of equipment and vehicles to Alaska’s oil and gas companies. Established by Diane Bachman in 2010, Diane recognized the need to provide true leasing services in which all of the risks – as well as the benefits – are carried by AES, freeing up their clients to focus on their business operations.

“I was passionate about starting my own business and working in the resource development support industry,” says Diane. “I learned there was a need for smaller and more agile companies to provide leasing services for oil and gas producers. We then started leasing vehicles, special equipment, and even furniture. I remember how accomplished I felt when we secured our first lease and continue to be energized toward that success each time we’re awarded a new project.”

In 2013, Diane expanded AES to provide support to the telecommunications industry in Alaska. The company has since gone on to hold several service contract agreements with a number of telecommunications companies in the state.

“A client referred me to a telecommunications company for services they required. We received our first contract from this company over two years ago,” she describes. “I believe it to be one of AES’s largest milestones – receiving the telecommunication service contracts that allowed us to become a valued partner with our clients in that industry.”

Since their inception, AES has partnered with Alaska USA for their financial services needs, opening all of their business deposit accounts, a line of credit, and term loan. For Diane, who has been a member of the credit union for decades, choosing to partner with Alaska USA was the clear choice.

“When I was searching for a financial institution that shared and understood AES’s vision, I knew who I wanted to be my financial partner. I believe Alaska USA has always outperformed banks with their service, rates, terms, and personal attention to detail,” Diane says. “We owe a great portion of our success to the commercial lending division at Alaska USA. The entire staff demonstrates attentive and outstanding professionalism, start to finish, business or personal.”

Most recently, AES has grown to include facility and ground leasing. In 2015, after securing a lease for five acres of North Slope land from the State of Alaska, AES once again partnered with Alaska USA and acquired financing to construct a 7,800 square foot office and shop building in Deadhorse, Alaska. The new property is being leased to UIC Oil and Gas Support, LLC, which is a subsidiary of the Ukpeagvik Inupiat Corporation.

“This was a large and quickly developed project in Prudhoe Bay. Building on the North Slope brings an unusual set of hurdles, but the project worked beautifully for both parties from start to finish,” recalls Diane. “AES was very pleased with the opportunity to work with such an established and culturally diverse Alaska Native Corporation. It’s quite satisfying to know we’ve contributed to the North Slope development.”

Diane is excited to continue AES’s involvement in North Slope development projects while proceeding to grow the company’s already proven telecommunications business. But what excites her most is being able to steer the company toward success with the people who inspire her every day.

​“The most rewarding component of this business is being able to work with our staff, contractors, and teaming partners. They’re what allows AES to exceed our clients’ expectations and makes owning AES such a rewarding and worthwhile experience.” She adds, “I’ve been most fortunate to have the continued support of Alaska USA. Without them, AES wouldn’t be where it is today. It’s been a pleasure conducting business with Alaska USA and I look forward to a successful relationship for years to come.”