Tell us a little about Unalakleet Investments LLC and what the company does.
Unalakleet Investments LLC is an Alaska Native Corporation owned, SBA 8(a) Certified Small Disadvantaged Business that provides a spectrum of capabilities for the federal government. Our operational offices are based in the lower 48, in this case, Chambersburg. The company has a broad depth of competency areas, with matching depth of experience. As an Alaskan Native Corporation, Unalakleet Investments can receive sole source awards of any size that cannot be protested due its status as an ANC-owned company. Unalakleet Investments’ core competencies include construction, security services, leasing and facility management, services and technology, and supply chain management. To achieve success Unalakleet has partnered with trusted companies with established relationships in the federal space.
What are some projects coming up in 2023 that you’re excited about, particularly in central Pa.?
As a diverse company, we continue to support the National Park Service in the restoration of our national landmarks, including recently in Gettysburg. We are also supporting IT for the Treasury Department. We look to help with a solution for immigration processing with federal Department of Homeland Security. In central Pennsylvania, UI is positioned to support naval facilities in Philadelphia and the Defense Logistics Agency in New Cumberland, and to add value as a mission support partner to Letterkenny Army Depot.
What are some general trends you see coming in 2023 that will affect multiple businesses or fields?
In my field, one of the aspects that I am most proud of is leveraging local business to support federal opportunities within the state. The growth of the organization over the last four years has led to starting new subsidiaries for our holding company, Unalakleet Native Corp., to capture and build upon capabilities such as construction, supply chain and property management. In the federal contractor industry, initiatives and opportunities are based on the administration in office. As a result, UI and the subsidiaries will continue to build upon the current performance and the commitment to leveraging local business as teammates to support the federal mission.
What are you hoping to see or visit in 2023?
As a student of history, I hope to mix business with pleasure by taking my family to Atlanta to visit the Martin Luther King Jr. birth home, which is run by the National Park Service, as well as other landmarks. And with four children, I have an opportunity to work with my two young sons in the area of 3D printing and really enhance their love of flight with a trip to the Smithsonian Air and Space Museum and Annex in Washington, D.C.
Jennifer Botchie Deinlein
About Conrad Celestial
Conrad Celestial Jr. has been president and chief executive officer of Unalakleet Investments LLC, based in Chambersburg, since 2017. With the company serving the federal government, he draws from his experience in both the military, having served in the U.S. Army, and in defense contracting. Before joining Unalakleet, he was director of operations and contracts for DDC-ITS and director of contracts and procurement for NOVA Corporation, both subsidiaries of Dine Development Corp.
Celestial earned a bachelor’s degree in business and finance from Mount St. Mary’s College in Emmitsburg, Md., and did further study at Frederick Community College and Hood College in Maryland, as well as obtaining several certifications in his field.
He lives in Greene Township, Franklin County, and is married with four children.