Derrell L. Hawthorne

Derrell L. Hawthorne serves as a key procurement lead within the W6QK Acc-apg Cont Ct Software Sector under the Department of the Army, where he oversees the acquisition of mission-critical software systems, secure communications infrastructure, and information technology platforms essential to Army modernization and battlefield readiness. His responsibilities include managing the full lifecycle of contracts for network-enabled command and control systems, wireless data transmission technologies, and resilient information architectures that support distributed operational environments. He specializes in complex, high-stakes acquisitions requiring strict compliance with DoD cybersecurity standards and interoperability requirements across tactical and strategic domains. Hawthorne maintains established working relationships with major contractors including British Telecommunications Public Limited Company, Liberty Communications, Inc., and Southwest Industrial Contractors & Riggers, Inc., reflecting a balanced approach between large-scale industrial partners and specialized engineering firms. His procurement patterns emphasize collaboration with vendors possessing proven expertise in military-grade communications hardware, embedded software development, and field-deployable IT systems, often requiring rapid prototyping and field validation cycles. He demonstrates a strong commitment to small business participation, with 60% of his acquisitions structured as total small business set-asides under FAR 19.5, consistently prioritizing opportunities for small disadvantaged, HUBZone, and service-disabled veteran-owned firms. This reflects a deliberate strategy to foster innovation and capacity building within the defense industrial base while ensuring competitive, agile responses to evolving operational needs. His primary technical focus lies in NAICS 334111 (Electronic Computer Manufacturing), with significant activity in NAICS 334210 (Telephone Apparatus Manufacturing) and 335999 (Miscellaneous Electrical Equipment), indicating deep engagement with the procurement of ruggedized computing hardware, tactical radio systems, and specialized electrical components for field-deployable networks. His expertise centers on integrating commercial-off-the-shelf technologies with hardened military specifications to ensure secure, scalable, and survivable communications architectures.