Danny Abeyta has spent his life being a hands-on person. From carpentry to construction, he has learned an assortment of skills that has led him to work for the Southern Ute Indian Tribe for a total of seventeen years. Now he continues his work as the new Construction Services Division Head, and has shown a deal of confidence in his position.

“I want to see new homes [develop] for tribal members on and off the reservation,” he stated. “The division is a shining star for the Permanent Fund, and I just want us to feel wanted by the people. I hope the people recognize all that the division is doing.”

Abeyta was born and raised in Ignacio to parents, Preston and Angela Abeyta. He spent his days in high school participating in a number of sports, including baseball, football, and wrestling. He graduated in 1998 but returned years later as the wrestling team’s head coach.

Technical skills were on Danny’s mind as he attended Wyoming Technical Institute and graduated in 1999 with a diesel and automotive degree. He then returned to his hometown of Ignacio to serve the people of the Southern Ute Indian Tribe, gaining experience in the water plant, building maintenance, natural gas, and field operations. Abeyta referred to his skills as a jack-of-all-trades, thanks to the teachings of his parents.

“I know a lot of things – electricity, plumbing, building. It’s good to have these. My mom and dad taught me to work and better my education, my life. I just want [the tribe] to know that I’ll do my job to the best of my ability, and anyone who has any questions may reach out to me.”