Ainsley Thrailkill

Ainsley Thrailkill serves as Project Manager for the UNC System Office Design/Construction, overseeing the end-to-end procurement and project execution of capital infrastructure initiatives across the University of North Carolina system. In this role, Thrailkill manages the acquisition of design-build services, construction contracts, and specialized installation work critical to modernizing academic, research, and student housing facilities. Responsible for aligning procurement activities with the agency’s strategic goals of sustainability, safety, and long-term operational efficiency, Thrailkill ensures compliance with state and federal contracting regulations while driving value through performance-based contract structures and integrated project delivery methods. Thrailkill collaborates closely with a diverse pool of licensed contractors specializing in commercial and institutional construction and electrical systems installation. While no single contractor dominates the portfolio, relationships are built on proven track records in delivering complex campus projects on schedule and within scope. The working model emphasizes pre-qualification, performance metrics, and collaborative contract administration to foster accountability and innovation among vendors. Thrailkill’s procurement strategy reflects a strong preference for open competition, with 100% of acquisitions conducted under no set-aside conditions. This approach prioritizes technical capability and cost-effectiveness over socioeconomic categorizations, though small business participation remains encouraged through subcontracting opportunities and prime contractor mentoring programs. The primary procurement focus centers on NAICS 238210 (Electrical Contractors and Other Wiring Installation Contractors) and NAICS 236220 (Commercial and Institutional Building Construction). Thrailkill specializes in procuring turnkey construction services, electrical infrastructure upgrades, HVAC integration, and building envelope systems for high-occupancy academic environments. Their technical expertise lies in managing projects that demand strict adherence to building codes, energy efficiency standards, and ADA compliance, ensuring that new and renovated facilities support the UNC system’s mission of excellence in education and research.