Debra C Hawkins

Debra P. Hawkins serves as Chief of the Procurement Branch, overseeing the strategic planning, execution, and compliance of federal acquisitions for a mission-critical government entity. In this leadership role, she directs the full lifecycle of contracting activities—from market research and solicitation development to award and contract administration—ensuring alignment with FAR regulations and agency mission objectives. Her portfolio primarily encompasses professional, scientific, and technical services, with a strong emphasis on analytical instrumentation and specialized consulting. She ensures procurement processes are transparent, competitive, and compliant, fostering accountability and efficiency across the acquisition lifecycle. While specific contractor names are not disclosed, Ms. Hawkins maintains a broad network of vendor partnerships spanning large-capability firms and small business concerns, particularly in the scientific and technical services sectors. Her office prioritizes open competition while actively facilitating pathways for small business participation. Vendor relationships are characterized by long-term engagement, performance-based outcomes, and adherence to stringent quality and compliance standards, reflecting a results-oriented contracting philosophy. Ms. Hawkins demonstrates a pronounced preference for unrestricted competition, with approximately 81% of acquisitions conducted without set-asides. However, she maintains a robust commitment to small business utilization, with nearly 19% of awards designated as Total Small Business Set-Asides under FAR 19.5. A minimal but intentional portion—0.2%—is allocated to 8(a) competed contracts, indicating a measured approach to socioeconomic programs that balances broad competition with targeted inclusion. Her procurement focus centers on NAICS 541990 (All Other Professional, Scientific, and Technical Services) and 334516 (Analytical Laboratory Instrument Manufacturing), reflecting expertise in scientific instrumentation, laboratory services, and technical consulting. She also regularly procures medical and dental equipment through NAICS 423450 and specialized maintenance services under 811219, underscoring a technical domain rooted in laboratory science, analytical systems, and health-related support services.