Cari Etherington

Cari Etherington serves as a procurement professional responsible for managing complex acquisitions in support of critical government operations, with a focus on technical services and specialized equipment maintenance. She plays a key role in executing the agency’s contracting strategy by overseeing solicitations, evaluating proposals, and ensuring compliance with federal acquisition regulations. Her portfolio primarily includes contracts for electronic and precision equipment repair, aircraft component manufacturing, and engineering services, reflecting a strong alignment with mission-critical technical domains. Etherington’s approach emphasizes transparency, regulatory adherence, and strategic vendor engagement to ensure timely delivery of high-integrity solutions. Her contractor relationships are centered on a diverse mix of small businesses and established industry providers, particularly those with expertise in electronic component manufacturing and aviation support systems. While no single contractor dominates her portfolio, she consistently engages firms capable of delivering specialized maintenance, repair, and overhaul services, as well as niche manufacturers of auxiliary aircraft equipment. Her procurement patterns suggest a preference for vendors with proven technical capability and quality assurance processes, often requiring certified manufacturing standards and service-level commitments. Etherington demonstrates a pronounced commitment to small business participation, with over 30% of her awards structured as total small business set-asides under FAR 19.5. Her contracting patterns reflect a deliberate effort to expand opportunities for small businesses in technical fields, with no evidence of preferential treatment for other socioeconomic categories such as 8(a), HUBZone, or SDVOSB. This focus aligns with broader agency goals to foster innovation and resilience through diversified vendor participation. Her primary procurement activity centers on NAICS 811219—Electronic and Precision Equipment Repair and Maintenance—indicating deep expertise in sustaining complex technical systems. Secondary focus areas include Other Aircraft Parts and Auxiliary Equipment Manufacturing and Engineering Services, underscoring her specialization in aviation support infrastructure and precision electronics. Her work ensures the operational readiness of critical systems through targeted sourcing of high-reliability components and technical services.