President's Message
Kevin Hostler, President and CEO

Look back on 2008

This past year was a good one for Alyeska Pipeline and the Trans Alaska Pipeline System. We moved forward with the Strategic Reconfiguration project that is upgrading our 30-year-old pump stations. This included a successful startup of new equipment at Pump Station 3 and ongoing work to install the new equipment and operating systems at Pump Station 4.  

Employees accomplished other significant work on TAPS as well. During two scheduled shutdowns last summer, crews successfully replaced the mainline pipe at Pump Station 2, installed a new Remote Gate Valve on the pipeline near Fairbanks, wrapped up projects at Pump Station 9, and completed work at the Valdez Marine Terminal.   

Of course, the success of a year is measured beyond individual projects. Our ongoing responsibility is to safely and efficiently operate the Alaska pipeline. To say this takes teamwork is an understatement. Alyeska's successful operation of TAPS depends on the dedication, integrity and skill of its people – from technicians along the line, to employees at urban offices, to those on tug boats and barges who ably escort tankers through Prince William Sound and stand ready to respond.  

The pipeline's historical significance, iconic presence and economic importance to Alaska and its people remains evident today, perhaps more than ever. As we move into 2009, we will continue working with pride to focus our resources and skills on the tremendous responsibility of operating and maintaining TAPS.