At AKS, summer traditions are more than calendar highlights. They are some of the moments we look forward to most, but they also offer a window into our culture. As we celebrate 30 years in business, these traditions remind us that our success has always been built on people: teammates who support one another, clients who trust us, and communities we’re proud to serve. From teambuilding activities and employee appreciation to client events and community giving, each tradition reflects the relationships, generosity, and shared values that continue to shape who we are.
Summer Games: Playing as One Team
The Summer Games started in our Keizer, Oregon, office and have since grown into a successful team-building tradition adopted in other AKS offices. At AKS, we talk often about operating as “One AKS,” and this team-based, relay-style event brings that idea to life. Alongside some friendly competition and a dunk tank, the Summer Games highlight the collaboration, energy, and shared goal-setting that are part of how we work every day.
BONUS BONDING! In addition to the Summer Games, AKS supports a variety of summer team-building activities, including whitewater rafting, disc golf, baseball games, and a company softball team that plays throughout the summer.
Golf Tournament: Strengthening Connections on the Course
Look for AKS on the golf course! AKS routinely sponsors and participates in a variety of industry golf tournaments. Plus, we host an internal tournament for employees in the Portland metropolitan region. We enjoy the informality of the course, where conversations come more easily, and shared experiences leave a lasting impression. These moments help reinforce the trust, camaraderie, and collaboration that are central to our culture.
Crawfish Brew & BBQ: Celebrating Our Clients
Our biggest event of the year, Crawfish Brew & BBQ, takes place every June. Bringing together well over 1,000 clients, family members, friends, and employees, the event is, first and foremost, a chance to thank the clients who make our work possible. At AKS, client relationships are a pillar of our success, and this event is one way we celebrate the trust and partnership that have helped shape our company over the past 30 years. And when it comes to showing appreciation, few things do it better than hundreds of pounds of crawfish flown in straight from the source!
The Great Meat Giveaway: Appreciating our Team
The Great Meat Giveaway is a unique AKS tradition that employees look forward to as summer comes to a close. We send representatives to local 4-H and FFA auctions near our offices to purchase livestock. Then we have it processed and give it away to our staff. The impact is twofold: AKS supports local youth and creates a way to thank employees for their hard work.
School Drive: Showing Up for Our Community
One meaningful AKS summer tradition is our annual Back-to-School Backpack & Supply Drive. Now in its fourth year, the drive reflects our commitment to showing up for the communities we serve, not just through our project work, but through direct, tangible support. Through efforts like this, AKS continues to invest in the people and communities that make our region strong.
Why These Traditions Matter
Every summer tradition highlighted here points back to the same idea: AKS is built on relationships. And for the past 30 years, those relationships have positively impacted our local communities! These events may show up on the summer calendar, but the values behind them are part of AKS all year long.
