Dr. Joseph Fellner

Dr. Joseph Fellner serves as a Project Engineer within the Air Force Research Laboratory’s Propulsion Directorate (AFRL/PZL), where he plays a critical role in advancing next-generation aerospace propulsion, hypersonic systems, and high-performance functional materials. He bridges technical engineering expertise with acquisition strategy, overseeing the development and integration of mission-critical propulsion technologies through research and development contracts. His responsibilities include defining technical requirements, evaluating contractor proposals, and managing technical performance across the lifecycle of R&D initiatives, ensuring alignment with Air Force objectives for air and space dominance. Dr. Fellner primarily handles complex, non-commercial R&D acquisitions requiring deep domain knowledge in propulsion systems, adaptive flight controls, and advanced materials. Dr. Fellner maintains consistent partnerships with industry leaders including UES INC, General Electric Company, DCS Corporation, Spirit Aerosystems Inc., and Advanced Thermoplastic Composites LLC. These relationships are built on long-term collaboration in high-fidelity modeling, materials characterization, and propulsion system prototyping. He engages primarily with large, technically sophisticated contractors capable of executing multi-year, high-risk R&D efforts under cost-reimbursement and time-and-materials contract vehicles. His procurement approach emphasizes technical excellence, innovation, and rigorous performance metrics over cost-driven competition. Dr. Fellner’s procurement portfolio reflects a 100% non-set-aside orientation, with no reliance on 8(a), HUBZone, or SDVOSB set-asides. His focus is squarely on technical capability and mission readiness, prioritizing contractors with proven expertise in advanced aerospace systems regardless of size or socioeconomic status. While small business participation is not a primary contracting mechanism in his portfolio, he supports broader AFRL initiatives that may incorporate small businesses in subcontracting roles under prime contracts. His primary NAICS classification is 541715, reflecting exclusive focus on research and development in physical and engineering sciences. He procures advanced propulsion components, hypersonic test hardware, high-temperature composites, and computational modeling services, requiring deep expertise in thermodynamics, fluid dynamics, and materials science. His technical domain centers on transitioning laboratory innovations into flight-ready propulsion architectures for next-generation military aircraft and space systems.