AFWERX Support

AFWERX Support serves as a critical liaison within the U.S. Air Force’s innovation ecosystem, facilitating rapid acquisition of cutting-edge technologies to accelerate capability development for warfighters. Though not a traditional contracting officer, this role enables the execution of non-traditional procurement pathways such as Other Transaction Authorities (OTAs), Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) awards, and rapid prototyping initiatives. The position bridges the gap between defense needs and emerging commercial technologies, often engaging startups, academic institutions, and non-traditional defense contractors to solve high-priority operational challenges under flexible, streamlined acquisition frameworks. Contractor relationships are characterized by dynamic, project-based engagements with a broad spectrum of innovators, including early-stage technology firms, research labs, and agile solution providers. Rather than relying on long-term prime contractors, AFWERX Support fosters open competition and collaborative partnerships, frequently working with entities that have limited prior government experience but possess novel capabilities in areas like artificial intelligence, autonomous systems, and advanced manufacturing. The working model emphasizes speed, adaptability, and risk tolerance, encouraging iterative development and rapid fielding. Set-aside preferences are uniformly non-traditional, with 100% of activities conducted under open competition without socioeconomic set-asides such as 8(a), HUBZone, or SDVOSB. This reflects the program’s mandate to prioritize technological innovation over socioeconomic criteria, ensuring the most capable and responsive solutions—regardless of firm size or certification—are selected. While small businesses are actively engaged, participation is driven by technical merit and mission alignment rather than mandatory set-asides. Industry focus centers on emerging domains including artificial intelligence, machine learning, cybersecurity, unmanned systems, space technologies, and advanced materials. AFWERX Support routinely procures software-defined capabilities, prototype hardware, and digital infrastructure through agile acquisition methods, demonstrating deep expertise in transitioning commercial innovations into defense applications. The role operates at the intersection of procurement, innovation, and operational readiness, enabling the Air Force to maintain technological superiority through rapid, non-traditional contracting.