Meet Alaskan Surfer & Skateboarder, Charles Skultka, Jr.
As a Lifelong Alaskan fisherman, educator, paddle boarder and skateboarder. Charles depends on XTRATUF boots for every season and pursuit.
Charlie Skultka’s journey into the surfing world is deeply intertwined with his identity and his hometown’s unique character. The catalyst for this lifelong passion was a 1960’s Tiki longboard, laden with decades of marine growth, which he discovered and repaired. This event marked the beginning of a three-decade journey that has seamlessly blended his roles as an educator and surf enthusiast, all while incorporating Tlingit and Haida culture with contemporary technology and academics.
Beyond the classroom, Charlie’s dedication to education shines through in various community engagements. He has led skate clubs for middle schoolers, taught children to build wooden surfboards, and educated many on Pacific Northwest Coast design, leaving a lasting impact on numerous students. Despite numerous accolades and honors, Charlie remains down-to-earth, easily recognizable skating around town or scanning the horizon for the next wave.
Charlie’s transformation from a young fisherman to a respected educator and surfer
is a story of passion and deep connection to his roots. “I spent most of my life here just hanging out, fishing, started my life as a fisherman, went into Boatbuilding for a while, and now I teach,” he reflects, highlighting a life rhythm dictated by the ocean and the needs of his community.
Surfing holds a special place in Charlie’s life, transcending the boundaries of sport to become a source of stability and grounding. His brief time in California as a child introduced him to skateboarding, a hobby that marked him as an outcast upon returning to Alaska. Nevertheless, his interest in surfing persisted, fueled by glimpses of others surfing in secret and his own encounters with the sport on television. The discovery of the longboard was a pivotal moment, helping him reconnect with his Alaskan roots and saving him in more ways than one.
Charlie embraces the challenges posed by Alaska’s unpredictable climate and waters, finding solace and strength in his interactions with the ocean. “I used to spend more time in and on the water than most people spend in town,” he remarks, showcasing his profound connection to nature.
His influence extends beyond surfing, as he integrates his love for the ocean, his cultural heritage, and his teaching passion. “Falling into this role as a teacher in the community, I really like the thought of seeing our artwork on different media...,” Charlie explains, showcasing his innovative approach to education and his commitment to preserving and celebrating the rich heritage of his community.
Charlie’s teaching philosophy goes beyond merely preserving the past; it’s about making a significant impact on his students’ lives. “I just grew up doing that stuff, and I like to share those experiences with kids. It helps them grow,” he emphasizes, highlighting the transformative power of education and experiential learning.
In the end, Charlie’s story is a heartfelt homage to Sitka, surfing, and the art of teaching. His life, enriched by the waves, his community, and his heritage, exemplifies the power of passion and the transformative potential of connecting with the natural world. “I can’t go anywhere in the world without comparing it to this place. And our cultures are all alive and well around us,” he concludes, capturing the essence of his connection to Sitka and his dedication to preserving its unique culture.
“Alaska for me is home. I don’t know how else to put it. This is my home and I’ve spent almost my whole life trying to compare other places to it. Sitka is a very unique place. It is home to a lot of different cultures and a lot of unique activities.“ — Charles Skultka, Jr.