Derek Schmitt

Derek Schmitt is a procurement professional specializing in defense and automotive systems acquisitions, with a focus on high-precision manufacturing and military vehicle components. He plays a critical role in executing complex contract actions for specialized equipment, ensuring alignment with national defense requirements and industrial base resilience. His acquisitions typically involve technical specifications for armored vehicle systems, braking assemblies, and steering and suspension components, requiring deep engagement with Tier 1 and Tier 2 suppliers capable of meeting stringent military standards under FAR Part 12 and Part 13 procedures. Schmitt maintains relationships with a diverse base of manufacturers, primarily medium- to large-scale industrial firms with proven capabilities in defense-grade fabrication and systems integration. He frequently collaborates with suppliers holding AS9100 and ISO 9001 certifications, emphasizing quality assurance and supply chain traceability. His contracting approach prioritizes technical compliance over cost alone, fostering long-term vendor partnerships grounded in performance metrics and continuous improvement practices. While the majority of his acquisitions—95.7%—are conducted as full and open competitions, Schmitt demonstrates targeted support for small business participation, particularly through Total Small Business Set-Asides under FAR 19.5. He also consistently allocates a modest but meaningful portion of contracts to Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned Small Businesses and HUBZone firms, reflecting a deliberate effort to broaden industrial participation without compromising mission readiness. His procurement portfolio is heavily concentrated in NAICS 336390, 336992, and 336330, indicating deep expertise in motor vehicle parts manufacturing for military and defense applications. He regularly procures armored vehicle components, brake systems, and steering assemblies, requiring familiarity with MIL-SPEC standards, ballistic protection requirements, and ruggedized engineering environments. Schmitt’s domain knowledge spans mechanical systems, materials science, and defense logistics, positioning him as a key liaison between operational needs and industrial manufacturing capacity.