(FAIRBANKS, Alaska) — After receiving 305 creative submissions from Alaskans across the state, the Alaska Department of Transportation and Public Facilities (DOT&PF) is proud to announce the winning name of the Winter 2025–26 Name a Snowplow Contest: The Whiteout Warrior. This newly named plow will serve the Richardson Highway through Thompson Pass, one of the snowiest and most challenging transportation corridors in North America.

“This year’s submissions were outstanding, and our Thompson Pass crew got a real kick out of the creativity Alaskans brought to the table,” said Jason Sakalaskas, Northern Region Maintenance & Operations Chief. “We are proud to see The Whiteout Warrior leading the pack this winter. Thank you to everyone who participated and helped honor the hardworking men and women who keep this pass open.”

Thompson Pass, a 2,600-foot mountain pass along the Richardson Highway, receives more than 500 inches of snow annually. The corridor connects the Alyeska Pipeline’s Valdez Marine Terminal with Anchorage, Fairbanks, and Canada, functioning as a gateway to Alaska’s economy and access to vital natural resources. The Richardson Highway also links Valdez to its closest northern neighbor, Glennallen, 119 miles away.

DOT&PF’s Winter Maintenance and Operations crews work year-round to keep this essential route open, safe, and reliable, often through heavy storms, drifting snow, icy conditions, and nonstop winter weather. The Name a Snowplow contest is designed not only to engage the public, but to recognize the dedication of the Winter M&O teams who “Keep Alaska Moving” across all regions of the state.

While this year’s contest highlighted Thompson Pass, DOT&PF acknowledges the statewide commitment of winter operators who clear over 5,600 miles of highway in some of the world’s harshest winter conditions.

The department extends its appreciation to everyone who submitted a name and participated in this year’s contest. The Whiteout Warrior will be officially added to the fleet this winter season.

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The Alaska Department of Transportation and Public Facilities oversees 237 airports, 9 ferries serving 35 communities along 3,500 marine miles, over 5,600 miles of highway and 839 public facilities throughout the state of Alaska. The mission of the department is to “Keep Alaska Moving.”