Powering Your World from the North: Alaska’s Fiber, Minerals, and LNG

Alaska is buzzing this week, from undersea internet upgrades to mining milestones and global energy deals. Here is what is happening and how it affects Alaskans.

🌐 Faster, More Reliable Internet: Staying Connected

This map, provided by Cordova Telecom Cooperative, illustrates the proposed FISH in SEAK fiber-optic cable route, expected to be operational by fall 2027. Cordova’s existing fiber route is highlighted in green. (Image courtesy Cordova Telecom Cooperative)

If you live in Southeast Alaska, Cordova Telecom Cooperative and GCI have some good news. They are partnering to lay new fiber-optic cables from Juneau to Cordova and from Cordova to Seward, with service expected by fall 2027 (Alaska Beacon).

Called the FISH in SEAK cable, this project is not just about faster streaming. It provides a critical backup for phone and internet services, especially in isolated communities prone to storm-related outages. For families, students, and small businesses, that means more reliable communication, telehealth access, and remote learning opportunities.

“This infrastructure will be a game-changer for residents and businesses,” a Cordova Telecom spokesperson said.

⛏️ Alaska’s Mineral Boom: What This Means for You

Alaska’s mineral sector is thriving, and it is not just an abstract industry. It impacts jobs, local infrastructure, and the products you use every day. Rob Retherford, co-founder of Alaska Earth Sciences (AES), has spent nearly five decades exploring Alaska’s mineral-rich regions, from Red Dog and Greens Creek to the Ambler district. AES has helped develop projects like Donlin Gold and Graphite Creek (North of 60 Mining News).

Readers should care because the minerals mined in Alaska feed the batteries in electric cars, electronics we use daily, and even national defense technologies. In other words, the state’s geology directly affects life both here and across the country.

Map showing known and prospective “critical mineral” occurrences and mineral‑resource potential across Alaska, as compiled by the BLM. (*Map: BLM Alaska / U.S. Department of the Interior)*

Retherford emphasizes that mining is not just about digging minerals. It is about people and partnerships. Strong collaborations with Alaska Native corporations and local communities ensure that exploration creates jobs, builds roads and ports, and benefits Alaskans directly.

“Exploration is as much about the people and partnerships as it is about discovering minerals,” Retherford said.

With U.S. demand for critical minerals growing, Alaska is becoming a key player in national and global supply chains, creating opportunities for local employment and long-term economic growth.

🌊 LNG Exports: The Real-World Effects

From left: Rep. Nick Begich, Interior Secretary Doug Burgum, POSCO International CEO KyeIn Lee, Glenfarne CEO and founder Brendan Duval, Energy Secretary Chris Wright, and Sen. Dan Sullivan at the announcement of the Alaska LNG–POSCO agreement. (Photo: BusinessWire)

Alaska is also exporting energy. Glenfarne Alaska LNG signed a 20-year liquefied natural gas offtake agreement with POSCO International of South Korea, committing to supply 1 million tons of LNG per year and provide steel for the planned pipeline (Reuters, BusinessWire). The agreement represents a major commercial milestone for Alaska’s LNG sector, though full implementation will depend on forthcoming regulatory approvals, financing, and final investment decisions. For Alaskans, this deal could bring economic benefits, jobs, and global recognition while highlighting the state’s role in international energy markets.

🇺🇸 National Headlines: What Is at Stake

Congress and ANWR: The U.S. Congress repealed restrictions on oil and gas leasing in the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge, reopening conversations about energy development in Alaska (Reuters). This could bring more jobs and royalties to the state but also sparks debates about protecting the environment.
U.S. cities chase sports glory: Cities pitched themselves to host world championships, leveraging the 2028 Olympics and 2026 FIFA World Cup (WTOP News). Alaska sports fans get a front-row seat to the excitement.
Travel chaos hits Alaska: Airlines report mass delays and cancellations, affecting flights to and from Alaska (Travel And Tour World). If you are flying for work, holidays, or family visits, it is a reminder to check your flights early and plan accordingly.

⚽ Sports and Entertainment: What This Means for Your Weekend

**Photo caption:**
President Trump, alongside the Presidents of Mexico and Canada and a FIFA representative, holds up their selections during the live 2026 FIFA World Cup draw ceremony at the John F. Kennedy Center in Washington, D.C. *(Photo courtesy: The White House)*

FIFA World Cup draw at the Kennedy Center: The 48-team 2026 tournament draw took place at the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts in Washington, D.C. President Trump, the Presidents of Mexico and Canada, and a FIFA representative participated in the live ceremony (The White House).
FIFA Peace Prize: During the draw, FIFA awarded the inaugural Peace Prize to President Trump, adding extra prominence to the event.
Streaming releases: Netflix’s Jay Kelly drops this weekend, along with new content on Disney+, Hulu, and Peacock (Decider). This is perfect for cozy Alaska evenings.

📝 Bottom Line: How This Affects Alaskans

From undersea fiber cables that keep communities connected, to mineral exploration powering daily life, and LNG exports putting Alaska on the global map, these are not just headlines. They impact your jobs, infrastructure, and daily life.

Alaska is no longer just the Last Frontier. It is a hub of opportunity, innovation, and global significance. Staying informed helps you see what is at stake for your community, your state, and your future.