Tukuh Technologies, LLC (Tukuh – a Tepa Company) and Eastern Shawnee Professional Services, LLC (an Eastern Shawnee Companies (ESC) subsidiary), today announce their first federal contract win as a joint venture since formed in February 2024.
The Tepa – Eastern Shawnee Technologies (TEST) joint venture was created to provide our clients with a deeper depth of qualified staff, an expanded geographic reach, and a broadened list of capabilities to support our federal clients’ needs. TEST delivers the joint capabilities of both companies while competing as a tribally owned 8(a) certified small business.
The opportunity to form the TEST joint venture represents a unique opportunity in which the leadership of both businesses have a long-standing professional relationship dating back more than a decade. In addition, Justin Barrett (Treasurer, Eastern Shawnee Tribe of Oklahoma) and Andrew “Dru” Alejandre (Tribal Chairman, Paskenta Band of Nomlaki Indians) have a strong professional relationship through their formation of the Tribal Leadership Council. So not only are the tribally owned businesses working together, but the leadership of both Tribes are working together, as well.
“On behalf of the Paskenta tribe and the Tepa Companies, we are proud of this partnership,” said Alejandre. “This is a result of our values as a tribe and company to collaborate with tribal nations for the betterment of both communities to become more sustainable for generations to come.”
Both ESC and Tepa are focused on diversifying their businesses to better empower tribal communities to promote economic growth through dedicated services. By leveraging their experience and deep understanding of the challenges faced by tribal entities, TEST aims to be a trusted partner for federal clients and is passionate about creating sustainable solutions that benefit clients while contributing to preserving tribal heritage and the well-being of future generations of both the Paskenta Band of Nomlaki Indians of California and the Eastern Shawnee Tribe of Oklahoma.
Barrett said, “Collaborating tribe-to-tribe through the TEST joint venture allows us to harness our collective heritage, values, and professional capabilities for greater success. This partnership between Tukuh Technologies and Eastern Shawnee Professional Services goes beyond business; it exemplifies the strength of unity and shared purpose among tribal nations. By merging our resources and expertise, we deliver exceptional service to our federal clients, drive economic growth, and safeguard our cultural heritage for future generations.”
As TEST evolves, ESC and Tepa remain committed to exploring new avenues of collaboration that will enrich their offerings and create lasting value for their clients.
