Charles F Hertenstein

Charles F. Hertenstein serves as a Contract Specialist supporting the Headquarters of Air Combat Command’s Acquisition Management Integration Center (FA4890), where he plays a critical role in executing complex acquisition strategies to sustain and modernize air dominance capabilities. His responsibilities include managing the full lifecycle of contracts for mission-critical technical services, advanced training systems, and command and control infrastructure essential to pilot readiness and tactical communications. Hertenstein specializes in procuring engineering and information services aligned with Air Force operational requirements, ensuring compliance with federal acquisition regulations while delivering agile, high-performance solutions to combat-ready forces. He maintains consistent working relationships with key contractors including VETPRIDE-EMI MAINTENANCE SOLUTIONS, LLC, MILTRAIN JV II LLC, and JBW FEDITC JV LLC, partnering primarily with joint ventures and experienced service providers delivering specialized training, maintenance, and systems integration support. His contracting approach emphasizes performance-based outcomes and long-term vendor collaboration, fostering reliable delivery of mission-enabling capabilities through established, vetted industry partners. Hertenstein’s procurement portfolio reflects a strong preference for open competition, with 85.7% of awards issued without set-asides, indicating a focus on capability-driven sourcing rather than socioeconomic preferences. However, he actively supports small business participation, with 14.3% of awards designated as total small business set-asides under FAR 19.5, demonstrating a balanced commitment to both mission efficacy and broad industry engagement. His primary procurement focus lies in NAICS 511210 (Software Publishers), reflecting a heavy emphasis on mission-critical software development, simulation systems, and digital training platforms. He also frequently procures engineering services under NAICS 541330, supporting the design and integration of command, control, communications, computers, intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (C4ISR) systems. His technical expertise centers on aviation training technologies and adaptive learning environments that enhance pilot proficiency and operational effectiveness.