OUR STORY BEGINS…
ABOUT IRWA
The International Right of Way Association (IRWA) stands for the highest standard of excellence working with real property, land rights, and right of ways. It is considered the central authority for right of way (ROW) and is recognized as a leading education provider in the industry, with well recognized credentialing opportunities through various certification programs, as well as professional services worldwide.
IRWA provides invaluable connections through its network of over 7,500 members across 15 countries. It is a global, member-led organization of dedicated professionals within the ROW industry. Established in 1934 as a not-for-profit association, IRWA's purpose has always been to improve people's quality of life through infrastructure development.
IRWA elevates right of way professionals to make a powerful difference in their communities. Our members work in the following sectors: Electric and Utility, Oil and Gas, Transportation, and Public Agencies.
IRWA CHAPTER 49’S FOUNDING DOCUMENTS
IRWA SOURDOUGH CHAPTER 49’S HISTORY
WHERE WE CAME FROM…
Our chapter’s mission is to cultivate professional, social, and educational opportunities for member benefit through partnership and connection, to inspire and motivate through mentorship, to achieve educational expertise through specialized training, and to promote chapter pride through a shared practice of excellence. Our mission is supported by our core values of accountability and engagement, collaboration and community, respect and empathy, education and development, and finally, wisdom and leadership.
The leadership of your Alaska Chapter 49 began back to 1963 when we organized as an affiliate chapter vying for recognition as a chapter of our own. We successfully obtained full chapter status as Alaska Sourdough Chapter 49 on May 11, 1968. Through the years, our chapter has received multiple awards for growth, has held the annual International Education Conference twice, once in 1997 and again, exactly twenty years later in 2017. We have had many notable professionals in our ranks including individuals who have held the prestigious positions of Region Officer and International President.
WHERE WE ARE GOING…
Since then, we have grown, seen many changes, persevered through the COVID pandemic, and come out the other side even stronger than before, and with a renewed sense of membership and community. We are now, more than ever, committed to pursuing stronger connections with our members, our right of way partners, and our community at large.
Please support us in this renewed community endeavor by joining as a new member, renewing your membership, reaching out as a community partner or sponsor, volunteering your time, and/or participating in chapter events to better get to know and connect with those who support our right of way work.