Fort Greely gets so cold that local residents say you can throw coffee up in the air and watch it freeze before it hits the ground. When the average temperature is below freezing, “Zero can feel like a heat wave,” says Jim Wasylewski, Bechtel site manager.
Books on Arctic survival are mandatory reading. The living facilities of the 1950s Army base have hissing steam register heaters in every room and can withstand temperatures of minus 50°C. Crew members who work year-round are masters at managing the cold. Outdoor work is rotated to minimize the risk of frostbite, and parkas, snow pants, boots, heavy gloves, masks, and goggles are the team uniform from December through February.
The sun—or lack of it—presents more challenges. In the summer, some days have 24 hours of sunlight, which can throw off sleeping schedules even after a grueling 14-hour workday. “Your body just has a hard time telling itself to go to bed,” says Wasylewski.
In the dead of winter, there may be only two hours of twilight. To combat depression and feelings of isolation, everyone keeps a close eye on each other. The team gathers every Saturday for movie night. And practical jokes are always encouraged. Don’t leave your car keys in the ignition while Wasylewski’s around. His favorite prank is to move the vehicle just out of sight when the owner’s not looking. Anything to keep spirits up.
