UIC expands construction portfolio with Northbank acquisition

Ukpeaġvik Iñupiat Corporation (UIC), the Alaska Native Village Corporation of Utqiaġvik, has acquired a majority stake in Vancouver, Washington-based Northbank Civil and Marine Inc., bolstering its construction capabilities in the Pacific Northwest.

The acquisition adds marine and civil construction expertise to UIC’s portfolio, which already spans heavy civil construction, marine operations, and dredging services.

Founded in 2014, Northbank specialises in fish passage enhancement, marine facilities, hydropower infrastructure, dam rehabilitation, and bridge construction across the western United States.

The company holds multiple U.S. Army Corps of Engineers contracts, including work at Bonneville Dam, McNary Lock and Dam, and Chief Joseph Dam.

Jeevan Pokharel, UIC’s chief operating officer who led the acquisition, said: “The deal supports the corporation's strategy to offer integrated services across its three core construction areas.”

The acquisition aligns with UIC’s broader expansion strategy in the region, following investments in Pacific Northwest construction companies including Johansen Construction, Highmark Concrete Contractors, and HME Construction.

Kainan Bodenlos, Northbank’s president, noted: “The company has already benefited from UIC’s ownership of HME Construction and common ownership of both companies creates opportunities for collaboration.”

Northbank will retain its existing name and leadership team, ensuring continuity for ongoing projects and client relationships.

UIC serves over 4,000 Iñupiat shareholders and employs more than 4,400 people across industries including construction, engineering, IT, and marine operations.

The corporation stated that the acquisition strengthens its market position, enhances integrated service offerings, and supports long-term financial performance benefiting its shareholders.

With this acquisition, UIC continues to pursue additional partnerships and acquisitions in construction, reinforcing its commitment to delivering comprehensive, multi-disciplinary construction solutions across the Pacific Northwest.

Read more on how UIC’s strategic acquisitions are shaping the construction landscape in the U.S. Pacific Northwest.