Billy G. Sherrod

Bill Sherrod serves as a Contract Specialist within the Air Force Research Laboratory’s RDK division (FA9451), where he plays a pivotal role in executing complex research and development acquisitions to advance national security technologies. He manages the full lifecycle of contracts for cutting-edge projects in directed energy, electro-optics, laser systems, and advanced instrumentation, ensuring compliance with federal acquisition regulations and alignment with the Air Force’s strategic imperatives for air dominance. His work directly supports the development of next-generation aerospace capabilities through technically demanding procurements requiring specialized scientific and engineering expertise. Sherrod collaborates with a diverse range of contractors, including defense technology firms, university-affiliated research centers, and specialized engineering service providers. His contracting patterns reflect a preference for partners with proven capabilities in physical sciences, laser vulnerability research, and high-precision instrumentation development. While no single contractor dominates his portfolio, he consistently engages vendors with demonstrated technical proficiency in classified and unclassified R&D environments, fostering long-term partnerships built on performance, innovation, and regulatory compliance. His procurement strategy prioritizes open competition, with 87.5% of actions awarded without set-asides, reflecting the specialized nature of RDK’s mission-critical requirements. However, he maintains a deliberate 12.5% commitment to Total Small Business Set-Asides under FAR 19.5, demonstrating a balanced approach that upholds mission readiness while promoting small business participation in high-technology domains. He does not routinely utilize 8(a), HUBZone, or SDVOSB set-asides, instead favoring broad-based small business eligibility where technical capability aligns with program needs. Sherrod’s primary procurement focus lies in NAICS 541712 and 541715, encompassing research and development in physical, engineering, and life sciences—excluding biotechnology and nanotechnology. He frequently procures services related to laser system design, optical diagnostics, materials testing, and advanced sensor development, requiring deep technical understanding of aerospace engineering and defense science. His expertise ensures that acquisitions meet stringent performance, security, and innovation benchmarks essential to Air Force R&D objectives.