Dave Norton and Mike Jens partnered with Maynard Tapp to form Hawk Consultants LLC.

Most everyone in the state's oil business is at least familiar with Tapp. He's the one who always asks the first question during the Alliance meetings, and the first that most in the industry call when they need specialized and experienced workers.

Tapp founded the consulting firm Hawk Construction Services in 1985, during the height of the economic oil bust.

It was during the days that the major oil companies in Alaska were laying off workers by the hundreds. Tapp was working in the industry, but saw an opportunity to start his own business.

"In 1985, the oil companies began the layoffs, but I could see a ton of work to be done and they would need a lot of people," Tapp said. "I saw that there would be a niche to supply oil companies with good people."

The industry in the state has since evolved, and with the optimism of future work on a gas pipeline someday the opening of the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge, Tapp felt his company was not broad enough to meet the coming demands.

The partnership with Norton and Jens has built a team that can bring experienced project leaders to help with projects in oil and gas, as well as for public and other private organizations.

Hawk averages about 35 employees, depending on the workload. But between them all, they have got a web of contacts who know how to build or organize just about anything it takes for just about any kind of project.

"We wanted to create a place for our clients to find the best people and at the best price," Tapp said. "We're small and feel we can get loyal and talented Alaskans."

Each partner has a long history in oil and project management. Each worked on the construction of the trans-Alaska oil pipeline, and has built on that experience in the years since.

And because they've been in the business so long, they can help their clients in more ways than in just providing workers. They provide consulting based on their own experience, as well.

Tapp has provided project control and project management services on major gas fields and pipeline projects in Alaska and in several international markets.

Jens has more than 35 years experience in the engineering and construction industry. A registered engineer, Jens has worked with owners, construction contractors, engineering firms, attorneys and bonding companies on variety of projects. He also has experience in project planning, strategy and delivery techniques, as well as in dispute resolution.

Norton has worked with engineering and construction industry since 1974. A registered professional engineer, Norton has managed major construction and renovation projects for oil field facilities, and has been an advisor and liaison between owners and government agencies.

Norton, previously a commissioner on the Alaska State Oil and Gas Conservation Commission, has also worked as Anchorage's municipal engineer.

Part of the premise for the partnership was the potential for the opening of ANWR. While the latest attempts to open the protected land for drilling has failed, the partners of Hawk Consultants aren't worried.

"We have a good client base now, and we want to take care of them," Norton said. "If none of it happens, we'll still be fine. But we don't want to be caught short if it does happen."

The gas line still looks promising as the governor continues talks with the major oil companies. And when a contract is signed, work will quickly start on the front-end needs, Norton said. Hawk will be ready to help with scheduling, pricing and organizing the right people to help with the job.