Ashley McClain

Ashley McClain serves as the primary contracting lead for the FA8579 Software Support AFSC PZIM under the Department of the Air Force, responsible for managing the acquisition of mission-critical software systems, embedded firmware, and electronic instrumentation essential to avionics, radar, and electronic warfare platforms. Her role ensures operational readiness by procuring sustainment and modernization solutions for legacy and next-generation flight systems, with a focus on secure computing infrastructure and real-time embedded software support. She oversees end-to-end acquisition cycles for complex technical requirements, often involving rapid prototyping, field-deployable test equipment, and cybersecurity-compliant software upgrades. McClain maintains consistent working relationships with key contractors including Greenbrier Government Solutions Inc., Sterling Computers Corporation, Green Hills Software LLC, Microchip Technology Inc., and Systel Inc., each of which provides specialized expertise in real-time operating systems, ruggedized hardware design, avionics firmware, and mission-critical test instrumentation. Her procurement approach emphasizes long-term vendor partnerships grounded in technical proficiency, compliance with DoD cybersecurity standards, and proven track records in supporting Air Force platform sustainment programs. Her contracting portfolio reflects a balanced approach to socioeconomic set-asides, with approximately one-third of awards structured as Total Small Business Set-Asides under FAR 19.5, demonstrating a deliberate commitment to enabling small business participation without compromising technical capability. While the majority of acquisitions remain open to all competitors, she actively prioritizes qualified small businesses with relevant domain expertise in defense electronics and embedded systems. McClain’s primary NAICS focus areas include Engineering Services (541330), Other Computer Related Services (541519), and Electronic and Precision Equipment Repair and Maintenance (811210), reflecting her specialization in software integration, system-level diagnostics, and hardware-software co-design for military aviation platforms. She frequently procures embedded C/C++ applications, DO-178C-compliant software, ruggedized processors, and custom test fixtures, underscoring deep technical familiarity with aerospace systems engineering and DoD acquisition frameworks.