Toby Drake
President
Toby Drake was born in Upland, California and raised in Kotzebue. His father, Wayne Drake, began Drake Construction in 1982. Toby began playing around with construction equipment when he was twelve, but officially started working for Drake Construction as a laborer when he was sixteen. He progressed through various positions at the company and took breaks to attend college at the University of Alaska-Juneau on a basketball scholarship later transferring to the University of Alaska Anchorage, where he took classes in construction management and accounting. He returned to Drake Construction, where he worked as an operator, foreman, superintendent, project manager, and in 2001 became President. In 2006, with his father ready to retire, he bought the business and became sole owner. In 2020 Drake Construction was named National Contractor of the Year by Equipment World magazine.
Toby and his wife, Amber, have three daughters: Callan, Teigan, and Mairyn. Toby, a Doyon shareholder, serves on the Alaska Technical Center Advisory Board in Kotzebue as well as AGC’s Department of Transportation Committee and its Sustainable Budget Task Force. In his spare time, he enjoys outdoor activities such as fat tire biking, snow machining and golf.
Mike Cain
VP Operations
Raised in sunny Southern California, he found his calling in construction, welding, and building from a young age. In high school, he competed in the SkillsUSA program and took a national title in sheet metal fabrication. Then working as a union electrician for more than 10 years, his career took an adventurous turn leading him to Kotzebue with Drake Construction after a family visit. Learning the civil trade in the Arctic for 20 years has taught him many things, which he enjoys thoroughly.
When not immersed in work, he’s a devoted family man, traveling with his wife and daughter, developing properties, and indulging in his love for live music at every opportunity.
Misty Cain
Office Manager
Originally from Southern California, Misty Cain established her roots in Alaska in 2005. With a lifelong immersion in construction, she draws inspiration from her father and uncles who worked for Yeager (now Skanska) Construction and built and sold apartment complexes. As a dedicated member of the National Association of Women in Construction (NAWIC), Misty serves on the Golf Committee and Building Blocks, as well as engages in Professional Development & Education (PD&E). Her commitment extends to the Associated General Contractors (AGC) where she plays a pivotal role in the Education & Development sector and orchestrates the annual Conference and Dinner Dance.
In addition to her professional endeavors, Misty is involved in giving back to her community through various volunteer efforts. She cherishes the moments spent with her husband and daughter, and loves to travel and be active, including enjoying activities like yoga.
Cecil Taylor
Safety & Environmental Manager
Cecil, an Inuit native of Kotzebue, has been shaped by the values of respect, loyalty, integrity, and trust—principles deeply rooted in his upbringing. The land has served as both a teacher and a provider, instilling in him a profound appreciation for its offerings.
As a committed member of his community, always willing to step up and help, and his role in construction allows him to contribute tangibly to the growth and development of his hometown. Cecil is an integral part of the Drake Construction team, bringing these same values to every project he undertakes. His dedication and work ethic are evident in the structures that stand as a testament to his commitment to quality and community service.
Eric Nelius
Marine Operations Manager
Raised in Alaska, Eric Nelius has dedicated 30 years to the maritime industry, rising from a tugboat cook to Captain without formal schooling. His love for Alaska’s community and wilderness kept him anchored in the region, where he’s known for creative problem-solving in remote logistics.
A USCG licensed mariner, Eric has sailed Alaska’s coast from Dixon Entrance to Kakatovik, thriving on the need for innovative solutions in remote operations. Off the water, he’s an avid biker, skier, world traveler and a supportive father to three sons. As a leader, he prioritizes safety, teamwork, and knowledge-sharing in marine operations. Eric embodies the resilient spirit of Alaska, steering through challenges with unwavering commitment.
Jeff Nagel
Utility & Mechanical Manager
Jeff Nagel, a Yupik from Bethel, Alaska, with a storied background in both athletics and professional achievements. He first made headlines as a high school athlete at Houston High School, where his exceptional skills on the football field earned him a place in the state hall of fame. His athletic talents extended to the wrestling mat, becoming the freestyle state champion wrestler. Beyond sports, Jeff has distinguished himself in the professional realm as the youngest and first native Alaskan to receive an Industrial unlimited mechanical administrator’s license.
Outside of his professional and sports achievements, Jeff cherishes the time he spends with his kids. Their favorite activity is snowboarding in the beautiful Alaskan outdoors.
Daniel Paajanen
VP of Special Projects & Underground Utilities
Born and raised in Alaska, Daniel has been a dedicated member of the Drake Construction team since 1999. Away from work, Daniel cherishes the moments he spends with his family, embracing the idyllic Alaskan wilderness that’s been his lifelong home.
His love for the outdoors extends into his personal endeavors as well; he is currently building his dream home in Eagle River.
Daniel has tested his skills outside of work as a competitor in the Iron Dog snowmachine trail class race, as well as taking on the more challenging pro class four times and successfully finishing twice.
Daniel’s resilience and dedication shine through both his professional and personal life.
Michael Peters
Project Manager
Originally from Bakersfield, California, Michael is the second oldest of six kids. With a passion for the great outdoors, he made a significant life choice and relocated to Alaska in 2021, embracing the natural beauty and challenges it offers.
Academically, Michael holds a Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration with a Finance specialization from Chico State University (2009) and a Mechanical Engineering Degree from the University of Alaska Anchorage (2022).
Michael’s professional journey is as diverse as it is impressive. He has been involved in everything from running family-owned small businesses to performing a wide array of general labor tasks, culminating in a wealth of experience within the corporate sector.