Please provide your name, job title, and day-to-day responsibilities at DUS.
My name is Patty Bryant, and I’ve been with DUS since 1995. I’m the Benefits Coordinator and have held that role since 2009. I manage employee benefits, handle invoicing for our self-insured health programs, and oversee garnishments. I’ve taken on many roles over the years, but today, my main focus is benefits.
What initially brought you to DUS 30 years ago?
I joined DUS in a job-share role through a friend in accounts payable. It fit perfectly—I was ready for a change after managing my family’s H&R Block office. I started part-time doing accounting work, and later transitioned to full-time when DUS won the Alaska Security Pipeline contract. I handled billing and travel, working independently on a busy seven-day operation. From the start, I knew DUS was where I wanted to be.
How has your role at DUS evolved over the years?
My role at DUS has evolved with the company—I’ve moved from accounting to travel coordination to benefits, often because someone believed I could handle more. When benefits management came in-house, leadership encouraged me to take it on, even though I had no experience. That trust pushed me to grow. DUS also supported me through significant life changes, like adopting my daughter—they set me up to work from home in 2000, which was rare then. That kind of care and flexibility is why I’ve stayed so long.
You’ve been called “the person everyone at DUS knows”—do you agree with that statement?
I’m not sure everyone knows me, but my name probably rings a bell—especially after new hire orientation, where I walk folks through benefits and payroll. I try to be a supportive, human connection for employees, especially those working remotely or on night shifts. That mindset came from former president Bob Tallent, who reminded us that our job is to support the people at the job sites. I may not always have the answer right away, but I’ll find it—and I hope that makes a difference. Helping someone feel seen or reducing their stress, even in a small way, is the most rewarding part of my job.
Would you say that’s one of the most rewarding aspects of your job, or is there something else that stands out?
The people are most rewarding to me—I genuinely love this company. I’ve seen a lot of change, but DUS has always centered its culture around employee respect. I grew up constantly adapting, so change doesn’t scare me, but I speak up when I think something isn’t right. The leadership here listens; when people don’t fit that people-first mindset, they tend to move on. I’ve had chances to leave, but I’ve never wanted to. DUS has always felt like the right place for me.
What changes have you seen at DUS over the years? And what has remained constant?
Our safety culture has always been constant—it’s the foundation of everything we do. The biggest change over the years has been modernizing our systems. We’ve moved away from outdated processes like paper timesheets and focused on making things more efficient for employees. Through all the changes, our core mission—supporting and protecting our people—has stayed the same.
Can you share a time you helped an employee through a challenging situation?
One of the most meaningful challenges I faced was helping after the sudden passing of a manager on the pipeline. He hadn’t updated his beneficiary info, but I had saved emails that helped ensure his wishes were honored. I worked closely with his family and our providers to navigate the process. Loss deeply affects our close-knit teams, and I’ve supported employees through many personal moments—whether it’s FAFSA forms, insurance choices, or retirement planning. As my dad once said, I think I’m where I’m meant to be. Helping people through life’s most challenging times is my way of honoring them.
How do you think DUS’s commitment to its employees sets it apart from other companies?
DUS values its employees as people, not just workers, which shows in how decisions are made. For example, DUS has never cut the 401(k) match, even during tough times. Leadership focuses on what benefits employees most, from affordability to adding pet insurance based on staff requests. What sets DUS apart is how leadership stays connected—they visit job sites, have honest conversations, and listen. That kind of care and transparency builds trust and makes people want to stay.
What do the values of professionalism and integrity mean to you in your role?
Professionalism means treating every employee with care and respect—listening and following through. If I say I’ll do something, I work hard to make it happen. Integrity is honesty, even when delays occur, and ensuring people feel informed and supported. I’ve also learned that during challenging moments, like helping a family after a loss, professionalism is about more than competence—it’s about showing people they’re not alone and that we genuinely care.
What are you most proud of after three decades at DUS?
I’m proud of how far DUS has come—expanding into the Lower 48 and building a strong security division. I’ve loved being part of that growth and working with many incredible people. I’m incredibly proud of the Alyeska contract we won in 1999—it took a team effort, and we’ve held it for 25 years. Watching longtime employees retire and welcoming new ones reminds me how special this place is. DUS has a rich history and a hardworking spirit, and I’m grateful to be part of it.
What advice would you give someone just starting their career with DUS?
Be patient, ask questions, and speak up if you’re unsure about something. Don’t struggle in silence—there’s always someone at DUS willing to help, but you must take that first step. Communication is key to growth, and taking an active role in your success makes all the difference.