Charles Harless

Charles Harless serves as a Contract Specialist within the Contracts and Acquisitions Management unit of the U.S. Department of Education, where he plays a pivotal role in executing strategic procurements that advance federal education policy and institutional capacity. He manages the full lifecycle of professional services contracts, ensuring alignment with federal acquisition regulations and agency priorities in postsecondary education, regulatory compliance, and student aid infrastructure. His acquisitions primarily support evidence-based research, data system modernization, and administrative operations critical to the Department’s mission, with a focus on consulting, software development, and educational support services. Harless maintains a consistent working relationship with LPE-STRATEGIES LLC, a key vendor providing administrative management and policy advisory services. His contracting patterns reflect a preference for established contractors with demonstrated expertise in education policy and federal systems, while also fostering partnerships with small businesses that bring specialized technical capabilities. He engages vendors through competitive solicitation processes, emphasizing performance-based outcomes and compliance with federal standards. His procurement strategy prioritizes flexibility, with approximately two-thirds of awards issued under open competition and one-third designated as Total Small Business Set-Asides under FAR 19.5. This balanced approach reflects a deliberate commitment to broadening vendor participation without compromising mission-critical requirements. He actively supports socioeconomic objectives by consistently reserving opportunities for small businesses, though he does not favor specific categories such as 8(a) or HUBZone over others. Harless specializes in procurements under NAICS 541611 for administrative and management consulting services, NAICS 541511 for custom computer programming, and NAICS 611710 for educational support services. His technical domain expertise centers on systems that enhance federal data collection, policy analysis, and institutional reporting—particularly those supporting Title IV student aid compliance and institutional accountability frameworks.