OSAGE NATION RESERVATION, OKLA. (July 29, 2026) - Osage Nation Principal Chief Joe Tillman is pleased to announce the appointment of Geoff Hager to the Executive Leadership Team as a senior advisor. A respected entrepreneur, business leader, and advocate for economic growth, Hager will advise the Tillman Administration on strategies to strengthen the Osage Nation economy, support business development, expand commerce opportunities, and help advance long-term prosperity for the Osage people.
"For decades, people have talked about diversifying the Osage Nation economy. My administration is focused on doing more than talking - we are focused on delivering results," said Principal Chief Joe Tillman. "Mr. Hager brings a tremendous depth of experience in entrepreneurship, manufacturing, and energy infrastructure. He has successfully built businesses, created jobs, and turned ideas into opportunities. Those are exactly the kinds of skills we need as we move from conversation to action and position our Nation for long-term growth and prosperity."
A proud alumnus of Pawhuska High School and Oklahoma State University, Hager began his career in engineering and technical sales before advancing into leadership roles in the process control and pipeline equipment manufacturing industries. In 2014, he founded Big Elk Energy Systems, where he currently serves as Chief Executive Officer. The company manufactures large-scale energy infrastructure measurement and integrity equipment and serves customers around the globe. Named in honor of Hager's third great-grandfather, Osage Chief Opahtunkah, or "Big Elk," the company has achieved national recognition for its growth and innovation. In 2018, Inc. Magazine recognized Big Elk Energy Systems as the fastest-growing manufacturer in America and the fastest-growing company in Oklahoma.
Hager has earned numerous honors throughout his career, including recognition by Native Magazine as one of the Nation's Top 50 Native Entrepreneurs in 2019 and selection to Oil & Gas Investor Magazine's prestigious Forty Under 40 list in 2017. He is also a four-time recipient of the Cowboy100 Award, recognizing Oklahoma State University's top entrepreneurs.
###