Debra L. Powell-Schaffer

Debra L. Powell-Schaffer serves as a Contract Specialist within the Telecommunications Division (HC1013) of the Defense Information Systems Agency, where she plays a pivotal role in securing and modernizing the Department of Defense’s global communications infrastructure. She manages a diverse portfolio of acquisitions centered on secure network solutions, telecommunications modernization, and mission-critical IT services. Her work directly supports DISA’s mission to ensure resilient, high-capacity, and interoperable connectivity across military and federal operations, with a strong emphasis on transitioning legacy systems to secure, cloud-enabled architectures. She routinely handles complex procurement actions under FAR and DFARS guidelines, including indefinite-delivery/indefinite-quantity (IDIQ) contracts and performance-based service acquisitions. Powell-Schaffer maintains consistent relationships with key contractors including AT&T Technical Services Company, Inc., Aerospace & Commercial Technologies, LLC, Liberty Communications, Inc., AOC Connect LLC, and Norfolk Fiber, LLC. These partnerships reflect a focus on integrated telecom solutions, fiber-optic network deployment, secure virtual private network (VPN) services, and enterprise-level systems integration. Her contracting approach emphasizes long-term vendor collaboration, performance accountability, and technical compliance, fostering reliable delivery of mission-enabling communications capabilities across DoD theaters. Her procurement strategy prioritizes open competition, with 75% of awards issued under no set-aside, while maintaining a steady 25% commitment to total small business set-asides under FAR 19.5. This balance ensures access to innovative capabilities while actively supporting small business participation without favoring specific socioeconomic categories such as 8(a), HUBZone, or SDVOSB. Her primary NAICS focus includes Other Computer Related Services (541519) and Research and Development in the Physical, Engineering, and Life Sciences (541712), reflecting expertise in network architecture design, systems engineering, and emerging telecom technologies. She also procures computer manufacturing (334111), computer facilities management (541513), and engineering services (541330), demonstrating a technical proficiency in end-to-end telecommunications systems, cybersecurity-enabled infrastructure, and mission-critical IT service delivery.