Chadwick S. Pfoutz

Chadwick S. Pfoutz serves as a Senior Computer Scientist at the Air Force Research Laboratory’s Aerospace Systems Directorate (FA8652), where he plays a pivotal role in advancing the Department of the Air Force’s mission to develop next-generation aerospace technologies. His responsibilities include evaluating, specifying, and overseeing the acquisition of advanced software systems, artificial intelligence algorithms, and secure communications platforms. Pfoutz bridges technical innovation with procurement strategy, ensuring that research prototypes are transitioned into operational capabilities through targeted contract actions. He primarily handles complex, high-technical-risk acquisitions in custom software development and specialized training systems, aligning procurement decisions with the lab’s strategic focus on autonomy, machine learning, and cyber-resilient architectures. Pfoutz maintains a consistent working relationship with Engineering Resource Group Inc., a key contractor providing expert-level software engineering and systems integration services. His procurement approach emphasizes long-term technical partnerships with vendors capable of delivering scalable, mission-critical solutions under stringent security and performance requirements. He engages contractors early in the requirements definition phase, fostering collaborative development environments that support rapid prototyping and iterative testing—critical for advancing cutting-edge aerospace technologies in dynamic threat landscapes. Pfoutz’s contracting portfolio shows no preference for socioeconomic set-asides, with 100% of awards issued under full and open competition. This reflects a mission-driven focus on technical excellence and rapid capability delivery over socioeconomic targeting, though it does not preclude small business participation when they meet stringent performance and security criteria. His approach prioritizes capability over certification, ensuring the most qualified technical teams are selected regardless of business size or status. His primary procurement focus lies in NAICS 541511 (Custom Computer Programming Services) and NAICS 611430 (Professional and Management Development Training), reflecting a dual emphasis on building bespoke software systems and upskilling technical personnel in emerging domains such as AI/ML operations, autonomous systems integration, and secure software development lifecycles. Pfoutz’s expertise centers on acquiring solutions that enable real-time decision-making, adaptive autonomy, and human-machine teaming for air and space dominance.