Daniel J. Hughes

Daniel J. Hughes serves as a Contract Administrator for the 355th Contracting Squadron (FA4877) under the Department of the Air Force, where he plays a pivotal role in executing mission-critical acquisitions that sustain airpower readiness. He manages the full lifecycle of contracts for specialized aerospace components, avionics, maintenance services, and facility infrastructure essential to aircraft operations and base sustainment. His work ensures timely delivery of mission-enabling capabilities while adhering to federal acquisition regulations and Air Force procurement standards. Hughes routinely handles complex solicitations involving technical specifications, performance-based requirements, and compliance with defense logistics protocols. Hughes maintains consistent contracting relationships with a select group of vendors including MILLER ELECTRIC COMPANY INC., ATLANTIC PACIFIC STANDARD LLC, DAP CONSTRUCTION MANAGEMENT LLC, BSE PERFORMANCE, LLC, and LAVISH LIFE TECHNOLOGIES LLC. These partnerships span manufacturing, construction management, technical services, and specialized equipment supply, reflecting a balanced approach to sourcing both commercial-off-the-shelf and mission-specific solutions. His working relationships emphasize reliability, technical compliance, and performance accountability, fostering long-term vendor collaboration aligned with operational needs. A strong advocate for small business participation, Hughes consistently prioritizes Total Small Business Set-Asides under FAR 19.5, with over 62% of his awards designated for small businesses. His contracting patterns reflect a deliberate commitment to socioeconomic programs, regularly utilizing set-asides to empower small, disadvantaged, and veteran-owned firms. This focus ensures broad economic impact while maintaining a competitive, capable vendor base for critical aerospace support functions. His procurement portfolio centers on NAICS codes including 334290 (Other Communications Equipment Manufacturing), 339999 (All Other Miscellaneous Manufacturing), and 481219 (Other Nonscheduled Air Transportation), with additional emphasis on 337215 (Showcase and Locker Manufacturing) and 561320 (Temporary Help Services). This reflects expertise in procuring niche aerospace components, auxiliary systems, and mission support services that directly enable flight line operations and base infrastructure resilience.