About Me
Who I Am
I am Ben Kolendo, a 6th generation Alaskan with a deep-rooted love for my state. As an Alaskan-born pilot, I explore our stunning landscapes from above and on the ground, enjoying hiking and skiing in my free time. Growing up, I spent many hours hiking in Hatcher Pass, Lazy Mountain, and the Butte, with my favorite hike being Archangel. I also grew up riding horses, which has fostered my love for the outdoors and adventure. In addition to hiking, I enjoy skiing at Alyeska and now Skeetawk, which allows me to appreciate Alaska's beauty in a cold way. I am dedicated to the future of our children and the health of our educational system, having served as a student representative for the past six years. Currently, I hold a private pilot's license and am working on my instrument rating.
My Future
My future is dedicated to continuous growth and community service. I am currently pursuing my real estate license with the intention of launching my own real estate business. I plan to invest in real estate and help others do the same, focusing on assisting people in buying multi-family properties. My goal is to educate others on the smart benefits of real estate investment and the solid financial principles behind it. In five years, I envision myself holding all of my pilot's licenses and working as a pilot while simultaneously managing my real estate business. My commitment to our community drives me to create positive change, leveraging my skills and experiences in both aviation and real estate. As I continue my journey, I am proud to be running for the school board, where I aim to make a lasting impact on our educational system and the future of our children.
My Background
My journey began in Alaska, where my family history has shaped my values and ambitions. I graduated from Career Tech in the class of 2024. Over the past six years, I have served as a student representative, including several years on the school board, where I have worked tirelessly to advocate for students and improve our educational system. I have years of experience reviewing budgets and curriculum, and was the only school board member who attended Curriculum Council meetings and visited schools to see curriculums in action. My work with the Alaska Health Department under Governor Dunleavy, advising on youth drug and alcohol abuse prevention, has been a pivotal experience and has made me a top go-to advisor in the state, where I have contributed to multiple drug prevention task forces and advised groups like the Alaska Health Department Mental Health Board and the Advisory Board on Alcoholism and Drug Abuse. My dedication to youth drug and alcohol abuse prevention extends to working with congress-members, senators, and other key stakeholders to ensure a healthier and safer future for Alaska's youth.