Some paths take time to come into focus. For Larry Hawkins, the direction was always there. He just had to find his way back to it.
Some paths take time to come into focus. For Larry Hawkins, the direction was always there. He just had to find his way back to it.
A member of Tyonek Native Corporation and the Native Village of Tyonek, and a proud descendant of Mary Chuitt, Larry was raised in a community where hard work, mentorship, and the trades were part of everyday life.
Today, he lives in Anchorage and works on the North Slope for NANA, staying connected to what he has always valued most: heavy equipment and trucking.
Larry got his start in the logging industry after high school, learning from experienced operators who showed him the ropes. Those early lessons stayed with him.
His path was not linear. He faced challenges, including overcoming alcoholism, but never lost sight of what grounded him. Step by step, he built his skills, moving from the shop floor into equipment operation.
In Tyonek, the trades were not just jobs. They were visible opportunities. Surrounded by strong mentors and guided by spirituality, Larry developed the resilience to keep going.
When Larry decided to fully return to heavy equipment and trucking, he turned to The CIRI Foundation.
With support from a CTE scholarship, he enrolled in CDL training at AKA Hauling Commercial Driving School in Anchorage. The program worked around his North Slope schedule and respected his family commitments.
That support made it possible to move forward without putting his life on hold.
Today, Larry carries that support forward.
His Alaska Native heritage continues to shape how he shows up for his work, his family, and his community. He believes in being there when people need help, just as others were there for him.
When a friend’s child reached out during a difficult time, Larry was able to offer guidance and help them get back on track. Moments like that reinforce his commitment to mentoring others.
“Because of The CIRI Foundation, I was able to achieve a goal of mine and start focusing on giving back through my knowledge.”
Larry plans to give back by volunteering with The CIRI Foundation and mentoring students interested in the trades.
Outside of work, Larry enjoys acting, singing, and working on hot rods. These creative outlets reflect the same focus and drive he brings to his career.
Inspired by Larry’s story? Stay connected through TCF’s Na’eda Network to find opportunities to mentor, give back, and stay involved with The CIRI Foundation community.
TCF Proud is a new series from The CIRI Foundation spotlighting recipients who are building their futures and strengthening our community. Each feature reflects our mission to promote self-sufficiency through education and training, and to celebrate the journeys made possible through connection, culture, and opportunity.
If you’re a TCF recipient or alum, join the new Na’eda Network, a place to connect with fellow recipients, share your story, and help shape the future of our community.
Join the Alumni Directory
Larry Hawkins at Alaska Native Medical Center, Anchorage. Photo courtesy of TCF.
"I see patients who look like my family. They trust me because I understand where they come from."
Larry Hawkins's story is one of thousands. Every semester, TCF scholarship recipients across Alaska and the Lower 48 are building careers, strengthening communities, and investing in the next generation. The cycle of support continues.
