Arlesha D. Smith

Arlesha D. Smith serves as a Contract Specialist within the W6QK Acc-rsa unit of the Department of the Army, where she plays a pivotal role in executing complex acquisitions to sustain and modernize the Army’s aerial and missile defense systems. She manages the full lifecycle of contracts for mission-critical aerospace components, including avionics, propulsion subsystems, and guided missile system integrations supporting platforms such as the UH-60 Black Hawk and AH-64 Apache. Her work directly enables operational readiness by ensuring timely delivery of high-integrity components aligned with Defense Acquisition Regulation and FAR compliance standards, with a strong emphasis on technical accuracy, risk mitigation, and supply chain resilience. Smith engages with a diverse base of Tier 1 and Tier 2 aerospace manufacturers and specialized subsystem suppliers, primarily focused on precision-engineered components for military aircraft and missile systems. While no single contractor dominates her portfolio, she routinely collaborates with firms possessing AS9100 certification, ITAR compliance, and advanced manufacturing capabilities in aerospace-grade materials and systems integration. Her contracting approach emphasizes performance-based acquisition strategies and rigorous technical evaluation to ensure mission-critical reliability. Her procurement patterns reflect a strong preference for open competition, with 82.8% of acquisitions conducted without set-asides, yet she consistently supports small business participation through Total Small Business Set-Asides under FAR 19.5, accounting for 17.2% of her awards. She demonstrates a deliberate commitment to socioeconomic programs, actively engaging with small businesses capable of delivering specialized aerospace components, though no specific 8(a), HUBZone, or SDVOSB preferences dominate her portfolio. Smith’s primary technical focus lies in NAICS 336413, overseeing procurement of auxiliary aircraft equipment and subsystems, with secondary emphasis on engine components (336412) and guided missile manufacturing (336414). Her expertise spans avionics integration, mechanical power transmission systems, and precision bearing assemblies, reflecting deep familiarity with the technical requirements of next-generation Army aviation and air defense platforms.