Serious problems were posed by North American pioneer efforts to force their traditions on Eskimos, Indians, and Aleuts. Fortunately, other pioneers, such as home economists and district agents with the University of Alaska Cooperative Extension Service, responded to villagers' home and community needs. The University of Alaska also pioneered in offering mining/prospecting non-credit courses. Other higher education institutions initiated programs; for example, Kuskokwin Community College (1974) offered one of the first adult education degree programs. The U.S. Army at Fort Richardson introduced in the 1950s adult basic education (ABE), which by 1957 included eighth grade and high school equivalency (GED) certificate programs. Finally, a GED program for non-commissioned native officers was begun. Two other basic education pioneering efforts included training of native Volunteers in Service to America (VISTA) teachers of ABE and the Anchorage Community College Adult Literacy Laboratory's development of culturally relevant educational materials. In determining the University of Alaska's adult education/training role, a study committee developed a continuing education plan. This was implemented in 1972. All provisions were realized, including continuing teacher education and satellite transmissions of GED tapes to many villages. In summary, there is a need to help adults obtain skills required by their vastly changed society; those finding new ways of helping adults learn will be called pioneers. (CSS)