Andrew Petro

Andrew Petro serves as Program Executive for the Small Spacecraft Technology Program, where he leads the strategic planning and acquisition of advanced spacecraft systems and enabling technologies. In this role, he drives the procurement of cutting-edge research and development initiatives focused on miniaturized satellite platforms, propulsion systems, autonomous navigation, and space-qualified sensors. His work is central to advancing national capabilities in low-Earth orbit and deep-space exploration, ensuring that acquisition strategies align with technical innovation timelines and mission-critical performance requirements. Petro oversees the full lifecycle of R&D contracts—from concept validation through prototype demonstration—often managing complex, multi-phase solicitations that require close collaboration between government engineers and industry innovators. Petro’s contractor relationships are primarily with technology-driven firms specializing in aerospace R&D, including established defense contractors, university-affiliated research centers, and emerging space startups. He cultivates partnerships with vendors capable of rapid prototyping, modular system integration, and compliance with stringent space environmental standards. His approach emphasizes agility and technical adaptability, favoring vendors with proven expertise in small satellite bus design, radiation-hardened electronics, and on-orbit autonomy software. Petro’s procurement portfolio reflects a strong preference for open competition, with 100% of his acquisitions issued as non-set-aside contracts. While he does not prioritize socioeconomic set-asides such as 8(a), HUBZone, or SDVOSB, his focus remains on technical merit and mission readiness, ensuring that the most capable performers—regardless of business size—are selected based on innovation and risk mitigation. His primary NAICS classification is 541712, reflecting an exclusive focus on research and development in physical and engineering sciences. He procures advanced space systems including CubeSat and SmallSat platforms, integrated avionics, deployable structures, and experimental payloads, demonstrating deep expertise in spacecraft subsystem integration, orbital dynamics, and space system architecture.