David Yates

David P. Yates serves as a key procurement lead within the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Office of Science and Technology, supporting critical acquisitions that advance forensic science, digital intelligence, and secure communications infrastructure. He manages a diverse portfolio of contracts focused on modernizing laboratory instrumentation, enhancing cyber-enabled investigative tools, and ensuring the integrity of evidence collection systems. His work directly supports the FBI’s mission to strengthen forensic capabilities through advanced analytical technologies and secure data handling platforms, aligning acquisitions with national security priorities and operational requirements. Yates maintains consistent relationships with specialized vendors including VISTA OUTDOOR SALES LLC and SOUTHERN POLICE EQUIPMENT COMPANY, INC., who supply mission-critical equipment such as ballistic testing apparatuses, field-ready forensic kits, and ruggedized digital evidence collection devices. His contracting approach favors established suppliers with proven expertise in law enforcement and forensic applications, while maintaining rigorous compliance with federal acquisition regulations. He prioritizes vendor reliability, technical compliance, and delivery timelines to ensure seamless integration of equipment into high-stakes investigative environments. His procurement strategy reflects a strong commitment to small business participation, with over one-third of awards structured as Total Small Business Set-Asides under FAR 19.5. He also actively supports Women-Owned Small Businesses and Economically Disadvantaged WOSBs, reflecting a deliberate effort to broaden vendor diversity without compromising technical rigor. While the majority of acquisitions remain open competition, his consistent use of socioeconomic set-asides demonstrates a balanced approach to market access and mission readiness. Yates’s primary procurement focus lies in NAICS 334310 (audio and video equipment manufacturing) and 339920 (sporting and athletic goods manufacturing), reflecting demand for high-performance surveillance, biometric capture, and field-deployable forensic tools. He also procures electronic computing hardware under NAICS 334111 to support digital evidence processing and secure data storage. His technical expertise spans forensic instrumentation, digital evidence management systems, and ruggedized communications gear, positioning him at the intersection of law enforcement operational needs and advanced manufacturing capabilities.