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Heather Carpenter started as Acting Director of the Alaska Division of Insurance on July 16, 2025, and was named Director on Dec. 2, 2025.  She joined the Division as deputy director in June 2023.

Before joining the Division, Director Carpenter served for five years as the health care policy advisor to the commissioner of the Department of Health and Social Services (DHSS). As the chief advisor on Medicaid policy, behavioral health system reform, and special projects, she focused on building relationships with stakeholders, providers, policymakers, and consumers to foster consensus and support for departmental priorities.

Director Carpenter also spent six years working in the Alaska Legislature, including two years as chief of staff to the Senate president. During that time, she developed and carried successful legislation, including a major Medicaid reform package estimated to save $400 million over six years and financing a $35 million patient housing facility at the Alaska Native Medical Center (ANMC). 

Director Carpenter earned a bachelor’s degree in political science from Pennsylvania State University.