Laying the Groundwork for Connectivity and Community Growth
From a bold idea to a booming enterprise, Drover Construction, LLC is rapidly transforming Alaska’s telecommunications landscape. Founded by seasoned industry professional Brad Shephard, Drover specializes in high-quality, affordable broadband and utility construction services that stretch across Alaska and into the Lower-48. With a focus on rural and underserved communities, Drover is not just laying fiber, it’s laying the foundation for long-term economic development, education, and accessibility in some of the most remote regions of the country.
Launching a capital-intensive construction business in a highly specialized field like broadband infrastructure is no small feat — especially during a period of historic demand and funding opportunities. Brad came to the Alaska Small Business Development Center (SBDC) at the concept stage. Drover Construction needed a compelling business plan, strong financial projections, and the right financing strategy to secure the substantial startup capital required to purchase heavy equipment and support early operations. Time was of the essence as new broadband contracts were becoming available statewide.
Brad partnered with Misty O’Connor, Mat-Su Center Director at the Alaska SBDC, to develop and refine his business plan. Misty provided hands-on guidance in building financial models, conducting market research, and shaping a lender-ready narrative. She coordinated and participated in meetings with local lenders including Northrim Bank and First National Bank Alaska, serving as Brad’s advocate in presenting the company’s growth strategy.
Their collaboration paid off when Drover Construction secured two significant loans through the Alaska SBDC’s State Small Business Credit Initiative (SSBCI) program and First National Bank. These funds were used to purchase a full fleet of operational equipment; including directional drills, cable plows, and line trucks, as well as to scale up staffing.
Since April 2024, Drover Construction has expanded from 5 to 31 employees and now owns 59 pieces of heavy equipment and vehicles. This exponential growth enabled the company to meet immediate contract obligations and confidently bid on larger, longer-term projects. Brad shared, “Drover Construction considers both our investment in people and assets as equally important. We recruit, train and mentor the best tradesmen in our field. Our management team has extensive experience in building fiber optic networks. We are always seeking the best equipment and freshest technology to give our crews an edge.”
Drover now holds over $48.8 million in signed letters of intent for upcoming work over the next three years, covering projects across Alaska, Montana, and Wyoming. With a strong foundation, skilled workforce, and growing reputation for reliability and quality, Drover is helping bring broadband to remote communities while supporting the local economy and creating high-paying skilled labor jobs.
Brad explained, “The Alaska SBDC didn’t just help me build a business plan, they helped me build a future. Misty believed in the vision for Drover Construction from day one and was instrumental in connecting me with the right lenders and tools. With their support, we’ve gone from an idea to a multi-million-dollar operation in less than a year.”
When asked what the future holds, Brad confidently stated: “Drover Construction plans to further expand our footprint in Alaska and the Lower-48 in building fiber networks. We also plan to branch out into servicing power, gas, water and sewer utility construction. As demand for our services increase, our goal is to grow to meet those needs and challenges.”
Drover Construction is a standout example of how the right mix of vision, strategy, and support can transform a startup into an industry leader. With a strong commitment to training local talent, investing in the latest technology, and delivering exceptional service, Drover is positioned to play a key role in bridging Alaska’s digital divide. Through its work, the company is not only building networks, it’s strengthening communities and creating lasting impact.
Drover Construction LLC, serves the state and Lower-48 from Palmer, AK. Learn more about its projects at drover-construction.com.
