Face to Face
Kalu Kalu
Construction Manager

Kalu A. Kalu is project manager for site cleanup, remediation, rehabilitation, and pipe repair and reinsulation at the milepost 400 cleanup.

How does it feel to know that Alyeska is counting on your expertise to minimize the damage from this spill?

I am honored, but minimizing the environmental damage takes more than the expertise of one individual. I am fortunate to be working with a group of conscientious and very capable people – employees, contractors and consultants.

How big is your crew and what do they do?

After the initial response we had more than 200 people. Now it’s approximately 50. Crew members are involved in oil recovery, contaminated soil excavation and pipe repair.

What is the biggest challenge?

Safety is always first at Alyeska. With winter setting in, we have additional challenges to continue working safely while getting the job completed.

What do you think about during the two-hour drive to the spill site?

Safety is always on my mind. I also try to anticipate issues that may need to be addressed. On my way back I think about the next phase of the project and any issues still to be resolved in town. I also evaluate the effectiveness of my trip.

What would you say about Alyeska’s commitment to the environment?

Alyeska is one of the most highly regulated companies in the state. As a regulator for the State of Alaska for over seven years and in site remediation for over 11 years, I know most of the regulators and people in the environmental community. Working for the state allowed me to train with world class experts. There is an element of trust between my former colleagues in the regulatory agencies and myself. Alyeska is committed to doing the right thing and has always done the right thing to protect or restore the environment.

What do you do to relax once you get home?

I enjoy listening to music, especially jazz. I also play Scrabble with my wife.