Co-Founder & President

Sami Jo oversees every moving part of the business and partners closely with CEO Mandy to keep the company true to its mission. With experience across medical, legal, banking, manufacturing, and nonprofit industries, Samantha brings a wealth of knowledge, discipline, and a people-first approach to leadership.

Her vision for Alaska Food Company is rooted in Alaska’s hardworking generational farmers — connecting their harvests to families across the state and creating lasting economic impact through food security and global export opportunities. She believes deeply in the power of collaboration, working with the state, schools, farmers, and resilient citizens to build a healthier, stronger food future for Alaska.

Samantha also leads innovation with 49th State Farms, developing a freeze-dry-as-a-service initiative that empowers other businesses to grow, ensuring shared success across the state. Guided by the belief that “where there is a will, there is a way,” she approaches every challenge with determination and optimism.

Beyond her work, Samantha is fueled by family, the outdoors, and her love of Alaska-grown Purple Magic Molly potatoes — which she jokes she loves almost as much as her family. Married to a proud U.S. veteran, Samantha values service, resilience, and community, all of which shape the way she leads. In her free time, she dreams of mastering paddle boarding and has a newfound passion for cold plunges, embracing challenges with grit, humor, and heart.

Co-Founder & Vice President

Leadership, service, and sustainability—these are the values that fuel Josh’s journey, from his U.S. Army service to his dedication to Alaska’s food security. 

A family man at heart, Josh is passionate about making a lasting impact on both his community and the future of Alaskan agriculture.

When he’s not leading AFC, you can find him cheering on his kids at sporting events or enjoying outdoor adventures.

Dale is a dedicated family man and accomplished chef with a wealth of experience in culinary arts and nutrition. A graduate of the Culinary Institute of America Greystone and The California Culinary Academy, he is also a Certified Dietary Manager with specialized training in therapeutic diets.

Currently the Executive Chef of the Chop House, Dale partners with Alaska Food Co. to bring his culinary expertise to their freeze-dried products, ensuring nutritious, Alaska-grown foods are accessible year-round. With experience developing school lunch programs and elder meal cycles in Anchorage, Dale is passionate about creating meals that are both practical and delicious, aligning with AFC’s mission to provide sustainable food solutions for the future.

CEO

Mandy is the proud wife to Warren (US Army Retired), mother of four girls, and a lifelong volunteer with a heart for service. Raising her girls in a military family taught her the values of resilience, dedication, and teamwork—qualities she carries into every part of her life.

Her volunteer leadership spans Army family organizations, youth sports, and the annual Christmas Friendship Dinner that feeds thousands of community members each year. As a small business owner and CEO, Mandy combines that same mission-driven mindset with a passion for supporting local businesses and strengthening community ties.

Committed to lifelong learning, she approaches leadership with vision, discipline, and compassion—always striving to lift others up and inspire growth. A lover of all things Alaska, Mandy believes in serving with purpose, leading by example, and building communities as strong and connected as the families who call them home.