Craig Lather

Craig Lather serves as a key procurement professional within DLA Land Warren, supporting the Defense Logistics Agency’s mission to sustain land warfare readiness through the acquisition of high-reliability mechanical, electrical, and electro-mechanical components. He manages complex contracts for armored vehicle subsystems, powertrain assemblies, and mission-critical electronic systems used in tactical transport and combat support platforms. His work ensures the operational readiness of ground forces by securing components that meet stringent military specifications for durability, performance, and interoperability under extreme conditions. Lather’s portfolio centers on procurement activities governed by FAR and DFARS, with a strong emphasis on technical compliance and lifecycle sustainment. He maintains established relationships with leading defense industrial base partners including ONTIC ENGINEERING & MANUFACTURING, INC, OSHKOSH DEFENSE LLC, RENK AMERICA LLC, SCI TECHNOLOGY, INC, and VAREC NV. These partnerships reflect a preference for Tier 1 suppliers with proven expertise in defense-grade manufacturing, precision machining, and ruggedized electronics integration. Lather’s contracting approach emphasizes long-term vendor collaboration, performance-based acquisition strategies, and rigorous quality assurance protocols to ensure component reliability in high-stress operational environments. His procurement patterns show a balanced commitment to socioeconomic goals, with 40% of contracts set aside for total small business participation under FAR 19.5, while 60% remain open competition. He actively leverages small business capabilities in niche manufacturing and subsystem integration, aligning with DLA’s broader mandate to foster a resilient, diversified supplier base without compromising mission-critical performance standards. Lather’s primary technical focus lies in NAICS 332994, where he procures ordnance accessories and mechanical components for armored systems, supplemented by NAICS 334511 for navigation and guidance subsystems and NAICS 336330 for steering and suspension components. His expertise spans the integration of electromechanical systems, hardened electronics, and drivetrain assemblies critical to modern ground combat platforms, demonstrating deep familiarity with defense-specific engineering requirements and supply chain resilience strategies.