Cole Gunner

Cole Gunner serves as Program Manager for FA8102 AFLCMC HBK, a critical unit within the Department of the Air Force responsible for sustaining and modernizing mission-critical air domain systems. In this role, he oversees the acquisition and integration of advanced aeronautical navigation, detection, and command-and-control technologies essential to air superiority and operational readiness. Gunner manages full lifecycle procurements for complex engineering services, systems integration, and communications equipment, ensuring alignment with Air Force modernization priorities and technical specifications for next-generation air traffic and tactical systems. His primary contractor relationship is with BETTER DIRECT, LLC, a trusted partner in delivering specialized engineering and technical support services. Gunner consistently engages this vendor for high-priority, mission-critical tasks requiring deep domain expertise in avionics integration and communications infrastructure. His contracting patterns reflect a preference for established, technically proficient vendors with proven capability in delivering secure, high-reliability systems under tight operational timelines, indicating a focus on performance-driven partnerships over transactional procurement. Gunner’s procurement portfolio shows no reliance on socioeconomic set-asides, with 100% of awards issued under full and open competition. This reflects a mission-first approach prioritizing technical capability and readiness over socioeconomic criteria, aligning with the urgency and precision demands of air domain modernization efforts. His primary NAICS focus is 334290 — Other Communications Equipment Manufacturing — underscoring his specialization in procuring advanced avionics, secure data links, navigation sensors, and integrated communication hardware. Gunner’s expertise lies in acquiring ruggedized, field-deployable systems that meet stringent military standards for electromagnetic compatibility, cybersecurity, and environmental resilience, making him a key technical gatekeeper in the Air Force’s efforts to maintain dominance in contested air environments.