David Aker

David Aker serves as a key procurement lead within the Kessel Run organization of the Department of the Air Force, driving the acquisition of mission-critical software and digital systems that support air and space operations. He specializes in fast-paced, agile contracting for DevSecOps-enabled platforms, cloud-native architectures, and secure enterprise-scale applications, aligning with Kessel Run’s mandate to accelerate the fielding of combat-ready digital capabilities. His portfolio centers on rapid prototyping, iterative delivery, and continuous integration environments, ensuring contracts support the Aerospace Readiness Enterprise System (ARES) and other high-priority modernization initiatives. Aker operates within a culture of speed and innovation, frequently utilizing Other Transaction Authority (OTA) and non-traditional contracting mechanisms to engage cutting-edge technology providers. His primary contractor relationships are dominated by large defense and aerospace integrators, most notably The Boeing Company, which serves as a principal delivery partner for complex software systems and digital modernization efforts. He engages with prime contractors capable of scaling secure, enterprise-grade solutions across classified and unclassified environments, often requiring deep integration with DoD infrastructure and compliance with NIST SP 800-53 and CJIS standards. His contracting approach emphasizes performance-based outcomes, modular architecture, and interoperability across joint warfighting domains. Aker’s procurement activity shows no reliance on socioeconomic set-asides, with 100% of awards issued under full and open competition. This reflects Kessel Run’s operational urgency and the specialized technical maturity required for its missions, where speed and capability outweigh traditional small business participation goals. His primary procurement focus lies in NAICS 541512 (Computer Systems Design Services), followed by 541330 (Engineering Services) and 561621 (Security Systems Services). He consistently acquires end-to-end software development, systems integration, cybersecurity engineering, and secure cloud infrastructure services, with deep expertise in containerized applications, CI/CD pipelines, and zero-trust architectures.