Kikiktagruk Inupiat Corporation (KIC) is an Alaska Native Corporation organized to serve the Inupiat people of Kotzebue, a community above the Arctic Circle in Northwest Alaska.
KIC infuses the traditional values of the Inupiat people, who are descendants of Alaska’s first people, into its workplace culture and business partnerships. These values include adaptability, honesty, hard work, cooperation, integrity and a commitment to quality.
Headquartered in Kotzebue, KIC was formed in 1973 as a village corporation under the Alaska Native Claims Settlement Act (ANCSA) of 1971 to enrich the lives of our Iñupiaq shareholders and descendants.
KIC is an Alaska Native corporation focused on creating new opportunities and services for our almost 2,000 shareholders, while preserving and promoting our traditional Inupiat values.
Kotzebue, Alaska – March 30, 2026 – Kikiktagruk Iñupiat Corporation (KIC) today announced the appointment of Thomas Ikaaq Baker as President and Chief Executive Officer, effective March 26, 2026. Baker brings deep experience in Alaska Native corporate operations, public service, and community leadership, along with a lifelong connection to the Kotzebue region and KIC shareholders.
Baker, who holds a Bachelor of Arts in English from Dartmouth College, most recently served as Vice President of Kotzebue Operations for KIC, where he has worked since 2019. During his tenure, he also held roles as Lands Manager and Operations Manager for KIC Construction LLC, overseeing land stewardship, construction operations, and local business activities critical to shareholder services and community development.
In addition to his corporate leadership, Baker has served on the Kotzebue City Council and the Native Village of Kotzebue Tribal Council, contributing to local and regional decision‑making on issues impacting rural Alaska communities. He has been actively involved in subsistence and resource advisory organizations, including serving as Chair of the Northwest Arctic Subsistence Regional Advisory Council, and continues to support community initiatives focused on youth development and wellness. Additionally, Baker also serves as an officer in the Alaska State Defense Force training for and responding to natural disasters and other emergencies across Alaska.
Kathleen Napaaqtuq Sherman, Chair of the KIC Board of Directors stated “Since joining KIC, Thomas has developed a strong understanding of our lands, our people, and our responsibilities as an Alaska Native Corporation. His leadership experience, integrity, and commitment to shareholder value make him well suited to guide KIC into its next chapter. We have encouraged our youth to go out and get an education, come back and put it to use in our region. Thomas is a prime example of what can be accomplished through generational support as practiced through our Iñupiat Ilitqusiat values, and we should all be proud.”
“It is an honor to serve our shareholders in this new role,” Baker said. “KIC exists to protect our lands, strengthen our communities, and create opportunities for present and future generations. I look forward to working with our board, employees, and shareholders to build on that mission while ensuring long‑term, sustainable growth.”
Born and raised in Kotzebue, Baker is Iñupiaq and is the son of Andy and Tammy Baker, grandson of Gladys Richards and August Nelson Sr. and grandson of Bob and Marge Baker, and great grandson of Tim and Esther Richards of Kotzebue, and great grandson of Louis and Clara Rotman of Kotzebue.
As President and CEO, Baker will oversee KIC’s business operations, land management, and shareholder services, with a focus on responsible stewardship, economic diversification, and creating lasting value for KIC shareholders.
About Kikiktagruk Iñupiat Corporation
Kikiktagruk Iñupiat Corporation is an Alaska Native village corporation organized under the Alaska Native Claims Settlement Act (ANCSA) of 1971. Headquartered in Kotzebue, Alaska, KIC was formed to serve the Iñupiat people of Kotzebue by managing lands and businesses, supporting shareholder wellbeing, and preserving Iñupiat values for future generations.
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