Daniel Andrews

Daniel Andrews serves as Program Manager within the Air Force Research Laboratory’s Propulsion Directorate (FA8650), where he leads the strategic planning and acquisition of advanced aerospace propulsion systems, hypersonic technologies, and high-performance functional materials. Responsible for end-to-end contract lifecycle management, he ensures that research and development initiatives align with national defense priorities for air and space dominance. His portfolio centers on mission-critical R&D contracts that bridge fundamental science with operational capability, often involving prototype development, materials characterization, and adaptive flight control system integration. He works closely with technical leads and engineering teams to translate warfighter needs into precise solicitation requirements and performance-based acquisition strategies. Andrews maintains consistent partnerships with industry leaders including UES INC, General Electric Company, DCS Corporation, Spirit Aerosystems Inc., and Advanced Thermoplastic Composites LLC. These relationships reflect a focus on high-technology aerospace contractors with proven expertise in propulsion systems, composite materials, and systems integration. His procurement approach emphasizes technical excellence, innovation, and rapid prototyping, often resulting in long-term, performance-driven contracts that support sustained R&D collaboration rather than transactional procurement. Andrews does not utilize socioeconomic set-asides, with 100% of his acquisitions conducted under full and open competition. This reflects a mission-critical focus on accessing the most technically capable providers, regardless of business size or certification status. While small business participation is not formally prioritized through set-asides, vendors of all sizes are evaluated strictly on technical merit, past performance, and capability to deliver advanced propulsion and materials solutions. His primary procurement activity falls under NAICS 541712—Research and Development in the Physical, Engineering, and Life Sciences. He specializes in acquiring advanced materials, hypersonic propulsion testbeds, thermal protection systems, and adaptive control algorithms. His domain expertise spans combustion dynamics, additive manufacturing of metallic and ceramic composites, and high-temperature material survivability, ensuring that funded projects directly advance the next generation of air and space propulsion systems.