David Baer

David Baer serves as a Contract Specialist at the Defense Threat Reduction Agency (HDTRA1), where he plays a pivotal role in executing complex acquisitions to support the agency’s mission of countering weapons of mass destruction and emerging national security threats. He manages the full lifecycle of contracts for advanced technical services and specialized equipment, with a focus on threat detection systems, cybersecurity infrastructure, and scientific research support. His work directly enables HDTRA1’s operational capabilities in chemical, biological, radiological, nuclear, and high-yield explosive defense, ensuring timely delivery of mission-critical solutions through compliant, risk-managed procurement practices. Baer maintains enduring relationships with a core group of prime contractors including TECHTRANS INTERNATIONAL INC, BATTELLE MEMORIAL INSTITUTE, AERIS LLC, APPLIED RESEARCH ASSOCIATES, INC., and AMAZON WEB SERVICES, INC. These partnerships reflect a preference for established technical vendors with proven expertise in defense science, systems integration, and cloud-based analytical platforms. His contracting approach emphasizes performance-based outcomes, technical rigor, and long-term sustainment, fostering collaborative engagements that align vendor capabilities with HDTRA1’s evolving operational requirements. His procurement profile reflects a strong emphasis on open competition, with 93.3% of awards issued without set-aside designations, indicating a prioritization of technical merit and mission readiness over socioeconomic preferences. While small business participation is limited to 6.7% of awards, primarily under Total Small Business Set-Asides, Baer ensures compliance with FAR 19.5 requirements and maintains transparency in sourcing decisions. Baer’s primary procurement focus lies in NAICS 541519 (Other Computer Related Services), 334220 (Radio and Television Broadcasting Equipment), 334118 (Computer Peripheral Equipment), and 334511 (Search and Detection Systems), underscoring his specialization in advanced computing, communications hardware, and sensor technologies. His portfolio consistently supports the development and deployment of next-generation detection, navigation, and threat analysis systems critical to national defense.