Chamber Insider Blog

Thank you to Frank Watson from RavenTek for answering these questions in celebration of Native American Heritage Month. Check out the RavenTek website here.

To learn more about the Chamber’s DEIA Committee, click here.

Where were you born and raised and, if it was someplace else, when and why did you come to Loudoun?

I was born in Long Beach, CA, while my father was stationed in Southern California as part of his service in the U.S. Army. Shortly after, our family relocated to Alaska, where my mother was born and raised. I spent my childhood and teenage years in Juneau before moving to Southern California to enlist in the U.S. Navy.

After completing my service in 2001, a close friend stationed with me on the East Coast reached out about an opportunity to work as a contractor on a significant multi-year project at the Pentagon. I interviewed, received a job offer the next day, and embarked on a cross-country drive from San Diego to Northern Virginia.

Once I settled in Northern Virginia, I quickly grew fond of the vibrant growth in Loudoun County. My wife and I decided to put down roots in Ashburn, where we started our family and have been ever since.

What does National Native American Heritage Month mean to you?

Native American Heritage Month holds deep meaning for me, bringing back cherished memories of growing up in Southeast Alaska. My family was part of a dance group that performed traditional songs and celebrated our cultural roots. Every year, this month serves as a powerful reminder of the traditional upbringing that shaped me. It’s also an opportunity to reflect on and share those traditions with my five children, ensuring they remain connected to their heritage.

This month also makes me think about the businesses I’ve built over the past 20 years, some of which are dedicated to contributing to the economic prosperity of the Native community. The income generated by these ventures helps fund scholarships and create opportunities to preserve and pass down our ancestral knowledge to the next generation of leaders. For me, Native American Heritage Month is not just about honoring the past but also about actively investing in the future of our culture and people by helping the Native Community grow economically in the Federal contracting space.

What was your first experience in business and how did you get into your current line of work?

During my time in the Navy, I served aboard the USS John C. Stennis (CVN-74), where I worked on the ship’s computing systems, managing email, communication services, and other onboard IT operations. This hands-on experience proved invaluable when I transitioned out of the military. After several years working at the Pentagon, I gained significant insight into government contracting and its complexities. Frequent conversations with government customers and large systems integrators often led to the same question: “You’re Alaskan Native—why don’t you have your own Alaskan Native 8(a)?”

That question sparked a pivotal realization: it was time to take the leap. Recognizing a niche in data center engineering—a service in high demand—I launched my first business, Nisga’a Data Systems, in 2008, which became an ANC 8(a) certified company. After a successful run and with Nisga’a Data Systems nearing graduation from the 8(a) program, I saw the opportunity to build something new. In 2015, we founded RavenTek, continuing the journey of growth and impact.

Have you had any special mentors or inspirations that influenced your career?

As I mentioned earlier, I moved to Northern Virginia after leaving the military to accept a job offer with SMS in McLean, VA. I spent over five years with SMS, gaining invaluable hands-on experience, both onsite and later at the corporate level. Toward the end of my time there, I had the privilege of working under Luis Laranjeira, who became a key mentor. Luis not only taught me the intricacies of sales but also provided deep insights into business development and relationship management.

In government contracting, strong partnerships are crucial to success, and Luis excelled at demonstrating how to effectively approach teaming and collaboration to maximize the probability of winning contracts. His mentorship went beyond technical knowledge—he shared real-world insights that simply can’t be learned from a textbook. Beyond being an exceptional mentor, Luis also supported my entrepreneurial journey. When I launched Nisga’a Data Systems, he helped facilitate a partnership with SMS, enabling Nisga’a to work as a subcontractor. His guidance and encouragement were instrumental in laying the foundation for my business success.

What is the best part of your job and why?

The most fulfilling part of my job today is the sense of family within my business. Many of the executives I work with have been alongside me for 10 to 15 years, creating a strong foundation of trust and shared success. A few years ago, I transitioned from CEO to Chairman, a role that allows me to collaborate with our amazing team on special projects while dedicating more time to helping Tribes achieve economic growth in the government contracting space.

Giving back is also a cornerstone of what makes this work so rewarding. My business partner and I are founding board members of a nonprofit charity that supports disabled veterans. Each year, we raise funds to provide all-expenses-paid trips for combat veterans, fostering team building and camaraderie. Additionally, we contribute to our local community through initiatives like sponsoring the Virginia Revolution Soccer Park in Leesburg. These opportunities to make a meaningful impact, both locally and beyond, are some of the most gratifying aspects of what I do.

What is it like working in Loudoun/Northern Virginia?

When I started my first company, Nisga’a Data Systems, our office was located in Herndon, VA. When I launched my next business, RavenTek, we leased a suite in the same building, keeping us rooted there from 2008 to 2023. Over the years, as One Loudoun was being developed, it became clear that it was the ideal location for our next office.

After some planning and patience, we finally made the move in 2023. The new space has been a hit with our team—our employees love the vibrant energy and dynamic atmosphere that One Loudoun offers. It’s been a great change, providing an inspiring environment that matches the culture and momentum of our company.

What are some of your favorite things to do when you are not working?

When I’m not working, my time is dedicated to my family, which includes my wife and our five children. Their activities keep us busy six days a week, all across Loudoun County, with two daughters in Loudoun Ballet Performing Arts Company and various Loudoun Sports such as AYBL and Revolution soccer over the years.  There is nothing more exciting than cheering them on and watching them grow through their passions.

If I ever embarked on another business venture, I would probably be a chef in my own restaurant, like my brother who is an executive chef in California.  I especially enjoy cooking in my outdoor kitchen with our grill and smoker. That’s where you’ll typically find me on weekends, perfecting family meals and enjoying the process. In the summer, I take my cooking to the Outer Banks of North Carolina, where my family, friends, and I relax, recharge, and make lasting memories together.