We recently asked Aaron and Andrea Rosetta of Nations Gas Technologies, Inc. about their work to support the Navajo Nation during the COVID-19 pandemic. Nations Gas is a Native-owned, Hubzone and 8(a) graduate based in Northern New Mexico. It specialized in natural gas and propane maintenance and construction. Learn more about Nations Gas and how they are working to help one of the communities hit hardest by COVID-19.
1. Tell us a bit about yourself and your business (location, tribal affiliation, type of work, professional background, etc.).
Nations Gas Technologies, Inc. is a locally owned, private natural gas and propane maintenance and construction company. Founded in 1998, the owners/founders reside in northern New Mexico, prime location for propane fuel needs and maintenance for local schools, hospitals, and tribally owned facilities. Founders and owners Aaron and Andrea Rosetta (including children) are of the Santo Domingo and Navajo Tribe. With over 20 years of experience in the construction of natural gas piping and maintenance, Nations Gas’s founders take pride in the employment of local Native Americans. Nations Gas staff strives to continuously maintain and promote gas safety and inspection for both local and federal facilities. Company is Hubzone, licensed and bonded in Arizona and New Mexico, and an (8A) graduate.
2. During COVID-19, the company has worked closely with the Navajo Nation. Can you tell us a bit about this work?
During the Covid-19 Pandemic, Nations Gas along with the Navajo Nation’s propane and construction department, are working in partnership with Navajo Nation Oil & Gas to provide labor and propane fuel to local chapters and communities affected by the Covid-19 pandemic. A recent initiative secured funding through various government entities to assist local, elder and low-income residence for propane fuel relief. This recent effort due to the pandemic has increased the company’s propane bottle exchanging, along with demand for residential, rural propane delivery.
3. What are some of the unique challenges that you’ve faced during the global pandemic? Was it difficult to shift your focus and business plans?
During global pandemic Nations Gas’s business plan and mission statement – to provide propane & natural gas services and products safely and efficiently – remains the same. In recent months, much of our focus has been shifting to propane fuel delivery due to lack of company access, and shut down of community resources. In addition, because many manufacturers and materials for job completion have been on hold due to pandemic, timely construction completion for vendors and facility personnel has been a challenge.
4. Can you tell us a little bit about your work with the National Center for American Indian Enterprise Development? How has the organization helped you succeed?
The National Center for American Indian Enterprise has helped our company by providing marketing updates when it comes to legal changes or alerts to job bidding. Being located in a rural location, these updates on projects and events has helped Nations Gas keep updated on changes within the tribal governments. As a business resource the National Center has acted as a financial resource, provided technical assistance, and coordinated and sponsored various conferences to promote tribal collaboration and economic development.
5. Do you have any advice for other Native-owned businesses, both during COVID-19 and in general? What’s the primary thing they should be focused on?
Within our organization, keeping local community members employed and fairly compensated is important. Multiple organizations including those self-employed, are struggling for income. Therefore, Nations Gas encourages cooperation and appreciates customers doing all they can to stay safe, yet stay responsive working from home.
