Biggest difference to me is the AWOL Comp is a SRAM Rival 1x group. Personally I like that (I have Force 1x 10-42 plus 46T chainring and my commute is also 32 mi RT), but the 38T in the front doesn't give you much of a range for road riding. It is more adventure gearing. The Sequoia gearing is more favorable for the road.
The Shimano hydraulic on the Sequoia are probably a little better than SRAM (they use mineral oil vis DOT brake fluid), but the SRAM should be fine..
I wouldn't give a thought to the fork except that the Carbon would give you less buzz I expect. Most bikes have had Carbon forks for many years now. All my bikes have Carbon forks. No a problem.
You might look at the Diverge as well. It rides well on the roads or off-road.