David Chandler

David Chandler serves as Program Manager for the Air Force Research Laboratory’s Propulsion Directorate (AFRL/PZL), where he leads the strategic acquisition of advanced aerospace propulsion systems, hypersonic technologies, and high-performance functional materials. Responsible for end-to-end contract lifecycle management, he ensures alignment between national defense priorities and R&D execution, overseeing solicitations for fundamental and applied research that accelerate the transition of breakthrough technologies from lab to field. His portfolio centers on mission-critical propulsion innovation, including adaptive flight control architectures and next-generation thermal management systems, with a strong emphasis on engineering excellence and rapid prototyping. Chandler maintains consistent, long-term partnerships with industry leaders including UES Inc., General Electric Company, DCS Corporation, Spirit Aerosystems Inc., and Advanced Thermoplastic Composites LLC. These relationships reflect a preference for established aerospace and defense contractors with proven expertise in propulsion systems, composite materials, and systems integration. His procurement approach prioritizes technical capability and proven performance, often engaging these vendors through competitive research and development contracts to address complex propulsion challenges requiring specialized engineering resources and advanced manufacturing capabilities. Chandler’s acquisition portfolio exhibits no set-aside preferences, with 100% of contracts awarded under full and open competition. This reflects a mission-driven focus on technical superiority and urgency in advancing propulsion capabilities, where specialized expertise and infrastructure outweigh socioeconomic targeting criteria. While small business participation is not formally prioritized, his team remains open to qualified small firms that demonstrate unique technical capabilities aligned with propulsion R&D needs. His primary focus is on NAICS 541715—Research and Development in the Physical, Engineering, and Life Sciences—where he procures advanced propulsion systems, hypersonic test hardware, high-temperature materials, and computational fluid dynamics modeling services. His domain expertise spans gas turbine innovation, scramjet integration, ceramic matrix composites, and thermal protection systems, ensuring the U.S. maintains air and space dominance through cutting-edge propulsion breakthroughs.