Charles Hertenstein

Charles Hertenstein serves as a key acquisition professional within the Headquarters of Air Combat Command’s Acquisition Management Integration Center (FA4890), supporting the Department of the Air Force’s mission to sustain and modernize air dominance capabilities. He manages complex procurements for mission-critical computing infrastructure, data processing services, and web hosting solutions that underpin pilot training systems, command and control networks, and tactical communications platforms. His work ensures operational readiness by delivering secure, scalable, and high-performance IT environments aligned with Air Force cybersecurity and interoperability standards. Hertenstein’s portfolio is exclusively focused on IT services that enable real-time decision-making and force multiplier capabilities across combat training and operational domains. He maintains established working relationships with a select group of prime contractors—including VETPRIDE-EMI MAINTENANCE SOLUTIONS, LLC, MILTRAIN JV II LLC, and JBW FEDITC JV LLC—each of which delivers specialized technical services in cloud-enabled training systems, simulation infrastructure, and mission-critical data operations. These partnerships reflect a preference for experienced, joint-venture entities capable of integrating complex hardware and software ecosystems under stringent DoD compliance frameworks. His contracting approach emphasizes performance-based outcomes, lifecycle support, and seamless system integration rather than transactional procurement. Hertenstein’s acquisition strategy shows no reliance on socioeconomic set-asides, with 100% of awards issued under full and open competition. This reflects a mission-driven prioritization of technical capability and operational urgency over socioeconomic preferences, aligning with the urgency of maintaining air combat readiness. While small business participation is not formally targeted, vendors must still meet rigorous performance, security, and scalability thresholds regardless of size. His procurement activity is entirely concentrated under NAICS 518210, focusing on computing infrastructure providers, data processing, and related IT services. He specializes in procuring secure cloud platforms, virtualized training environments, real-time data analytics systems, and cyber-resilient web hosting solutions that directly support Air Combat Command’s digital modernization objectives. His technical expertise lies at the intersection of defense IT infrastructure and operational training systems.