Doug Palomaki

Doug Palomaki serves as a key procurement lead within the Air Force Research Laboratory’s Propulsion Directorate, supporting the Department of the Air Force’s mission to advance next-generation aerospace instrumentation and signal measurement systems. He manages complex acquisitions for high-precision scientific equipment, simulation software, and specialized data acquisition platforms critical to propulsion and electromagnetic research. His work directly enables the development of mission-critical technologies for aerospace defense applications, ensuring timely delivery of cutting-edge capabilities through rigorous technical evaluation and contract administration. Palomaki’s portfolio emphasizes research and development contracts requiring deep domain expertise in aerospace engineering and analytical instrumentation. He maintains strategic relationships with leading technology providers including The MathWorks, Inc., for advanced modeling and simulation software, and Potomac Electrical Services, LLC, for specialized instrumentation support and system integration services. His contracting approach favors established vendors with proven technical credibility in high-reliability environments, while also integrating qualified small businesses to ensure innovation and agility. Palomaki’s partnerships reflect a balance between leveraging mature commercial solutions and fostering niche capabilities essential to classified and sensitive R&D programs. His procurement patterns show a strong preference for open competition, with 60% of awards issued without set-aside, yet he consistently prioritizes socioeconomic participation through 8(a) competed and Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned Small Business (SDVOSB) set-asides, each accounting for 20% of awards. This balanced approach ensures broad market access while meeting statutory goals for veteran-owned and disadvantaged business inclusion. Palomaki’s primary procurement focus lies in NAICS 541990 (All Other Professional, Scientific, and Technical Services), reflecting his leadership in securing advanced analytical services, software development, and systems engineering support. He also procures specialized instrumentation under NAICS 334511 and professional training under NAICS 611430, underscoring his expertise in integrating complex technical systems with workforce development to sustain mission readiness. His work spans the full lifecycle of scientific instrumentation—from concept through sustainment—within a highly regulated aerospace defense environment.