Derek Berry

Derek Berry serves as a Contract Specialist with the 355th Contracting Squadron (FA4877) under the Department of the Air Force, where he plays a pivotal role in executing mission-critical acquisitions that sustain airpower readiness. He manages the full lifecycle of contracts for specialized aerospace components, avionics systems, maintenance services, and facility infrastructure essential to aircraft operations and base sustainment. His work directly supports operational continuity by ensuring timely procurement of mission-enabling goods and services aligned with Air Force readiness standards, with a focus on technical procurement under FAR and DFARS frameworks. Berry maintains consistent working relationships with a core group of contractors including MILLER ELECTRIC COMPANY INC., ATLANTIC PACIFIC STANDARD LLC, DAP CONSTRUCTION MANAGEMENT LLC, BSE PERFORMANCE, LLC, and LAVISH LIFE TECHNOLOGIES LLC. These partnerships span manufacturing, technical support, construction management, and specialized services, reflecting a balanced approach to sourcing both commercial-off-the-shelf solutions and customized technical capabilities. His contracting patterns indicate a preference for established vendors with proven performance in aerospace-support domains, often leveraging competitive sealed bidding and negotiated acquisitions to ensure value and compliance. His procurement strategy reflects a near-even split between no set-aside and Total Small Business Set-Aside (FAR 19.5) awards, with a notable 5.9% allocated to 8(a) competed contracts. This demonstrates a deliberate commitment to fostering small business participation while maintaining operational flexibility. Berry actively integrates socioeconomic programs into his acquisition planning, ensuring equitable access for certified small disadvantaged businesses without compromising mission requirements. His primary NAICS focus areas include All Other Miscellaneous Schools and Instruction and All Other Support Services, indicating a broad scope that extends beyond traditional aerospace procurement into training support and specialized service delivery. He also regularly procures from miscellaneous manufacturing sectors, including handtool and communications equipment manufacturing, showcasing technical expertise in sourcing niche industrial and electronic components critical to aircraft maintenance and base operations.