Candace C. Dittmer

Candace C. Dittmer serves as a Contracting Officer responsible for managing complex acquisitions across high-technology and aerospace domains. She plays a pivotal role in executing the agency’s procurement mission by ensuring compliance with federal acquisition regulations, conducting market research, and structuring solicitations that promote competition and mission readiness. Her portfolio primarily encompasses engineering services, aircraft manufacturing, and air transportation support, requiring deep technical understanding and strategic sourcing expertise. Dittmer routinely handles full-and-open competitions, as well as limited-source actions under FAR Part 13 and Part 15, ensuring timely delivery of mission-critical capabilities while maintaining rigorous oversight of contract performance and compliance. While specific contractor names are not available, Dittmer’s procurement patterns indicate consistent engagement with a diverse pool of prime contractors, including large aerospace primes and specialized engineering firms. Her working relationships are characterized by a focus on performance-based contracting, clear statement of work development, and structured evaluation criteria that prioritize technical merit and past performance. She maintains collaborative interactions with industry stakeholders through pre-solicitation conferences and industry days, fostering transparency and informed bidding. Dittmer’s set-aside preferences reflect a strong emphasis on full-and-open competition, with 93.3% of her awards issued without socioeconomic set-asides. Nevertheless, she consistently allocates 6.7% of her portfolio to Total Small Business Set-Asides under FAR 19.5, demonstrating a measured but intentional commitment to small business participation. Her approach prioritizes market viability and competition over mandatory set-asides, aligning with agency-wide objectives to maximize value while supporting qualified small businesses when appropriate. Her primary NAICS focus includes Engineering Services (541330), Aircraft Manufacturing (336411), Other Aircraft Parts and Auxiliary Equipment Manufacturing (336413), and Other Support Activities for Air Transportation (488190), underscoring her specialization in aerospace systems and defense-related infrastructure. She also procures software and data services under NAICS 511210, indicating expertise in integrating digital solutions with physical aviation systems. Dittmer’s technical domain spans avionics, flight systems, and air traffic support infrastructure, making her a key player in modernizing national aerospace capabilities.