Posted on January 26, 2026
VANCOUVER, WASH. and UTQIAĠVIK, ALASKA — Ukpeaġvik Iñupiat Corporation (UIC) has acquired a majority interest in Northbank Civil and Marine, Inc. (Northbank), a Vancouver, Washington–based construction firm. The acquisition strengthens UIC’s established maritime and infrastructure portfolio and expands its operational presence in the Pacific Northwest.
Founded in 2014, Northbank specializes civil and marine construction projects across the western United States. Its marine construction work includes fish passage enhancement projects, marine facilities and marine pipelines and outfalls. Northbank’s civil construction capabilities include hydro power infrastructure, oil and water separators, dam navigational lock rehabilitation, and bridge construction and rehabilitation.
“This acquisition is part of UIC’s strategy to provide one-stop services across three core areas: heavy civil construction, marine construction, and dredging services,” said Jeevan Pokharel, UIC Chief Operating Officer, who spearheaded the acquisition. “By adding Northbank to our growing construction portfolio, we are continuing to build complementary capabilities that strengthen our foundation and diversify our businesses.”
Pokharel added that the acquisition aligns with UIC’s broader expansion strategy in the Pacific Northwest, which has included investments in companies such as Johansen Construction, Highmark Concrete Contractors, and HME Construction. “This is an example of how quickly and effectively UIC can identify opportunities, simplify the acquisition process, and execute transactions that support both continuity and growth,” he said. “We are building a strong team and platform in the region, and we look forward to continued expansion.”
“UIC has been an invaluable partner through its acquisition of HME Construction, and that partnership has already allowed both HME and Northbank to prosper by combining each company’s strengths,” said Kainan Bodenlos, President of Northbank. “The addition of Northbank under common ownership creates new opportunities for collaboration and efficiency. We look forward to growing our companies and pursuing future opportunities together with UIC.”
Northbank will continue to operate under its existing name and leadership team, maintaining its focus on safety, technical excellence, and client service.
UIC continues to grow its construction and infrastructure portfolio and welcomes conversations with business owners and contractors interested in acquisition, partnership, or strategic collaboration opportunities.
For UIC shareholders, the acquisition reflects continued investment in a diversified and resilient business portfolio. By expanding complementary maritime and heavy civil construction capabilities, UIC is strengthening its market position, broadening revenue opportunities, and supporting long-term financial performance that benefits its Iñupiat shareholders and descendants.
For parties interested in future merger and acquisition opportunities with UIC, please contact Jeevan Pokharel at jeevan.pokharel@uicalaska.com
About UIC
UIC is the Alaska Native Village Corporation of Utqiaġvik, Alaska, and provides social and economic resources to over 4,000 Iñupiat shareholders and their descendants. Since its establishment, UIC has diversified its investments and consistently ranks among the top Alaskan-owned companies. UIC employs more than 4,400 people and provides services to clients in a variety of industries, including operations in Utqiaġvik, construction, architecture and engineering, regulatory consulting, information technology, marine operations, logistics, and maintenance and manufacturing. More information about UIC and its family of companies can be found at uicalaska.com.
About Northbank Civil and Marine, Inc.
Established in 2014 and headquartered in Vancouver, Washington, Northbank Civil and Marine, Inc. provides specialized marine and heavy civil construction services. The company is recognized for its technical expertise, safety performance, and ability to deliver complex infrastructure projects in challenging marine and river environments.
