Carrie Eastburn

Carrie Eastburn serves as a Contract Specialist at U.S. Special Operations Command (USSOCOM), where she plays a pivotal role in acquiring mission-critical capabilities that enhance the technological edge of elite special operations forces. She manages the full lifecycle of procurement actions, from requirements validation and market research to solicitation, evaluation, and contract award, with a focus on rapid prototyping and field-deployable solutions. Her work directly supports USSOCOM’s mission to deliver cutting-edge electro-optical systems, advanced sensor platforms, and secure tactical communications technologies under accelerated timelines, often utilizing Other Transaction Authorities and prototype contracting vehicles to expedite innovation. Eastburn collaborates with a diverse range of vendors, including defense technology integrators, R&D-focused small businesses, and specialized consulting firms that provide technical expertise in operational systems engineering and mission analysis. While no single contractor dominates her portfolio, she consistently engages with firms capable of rapid iteration and field validation, prioritizing agility and technical adaptability over scale. Her contracting approach emphasizes collaboration with innovators who can meet the unique demands of special operations environments, often working closely with program managers to align acquisition strategies with operational needs. Her procurement patterns reflect a strong commitment to socioeconomic diversity, with nearly half of her actions set aside for Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned Small Businesses (SDVOSBs), demonstrating a deliberate strategy to leverage veteran-owned enterprises with relevant military experience. The remaining half are open competitions, ensuring broad market access while maintaining compliance with federal set-aside mandates. Eastburn’s primary NAICS focus lies in administrative and technical consulting services, particularly in areas supporting command and control systems, mission planning, and operational analysis. She also procures niche services related to vocational rehabilitation and specialized technical consulting, reflecting USSOCOM’s broader support ecosystem. While her portfolio includes occasional non-core items like office furniture, her core expertise centers on enabling high-tempo, low-signature operations through agile, technically sophisticated contracting solutions.