Ed Waters

Ed Waters serves as a Contract Specialist within the Naval Air Systems Command (NAVAIR), where he plays a pivotal role in executing the acquisition lifecycle for critical naval aviation systems. Responsible for planning, soliciting, awarding, and managing contracts, he supports NAVAIR’s mission to develop, test, and sustain advanced aircraft, weapons, and avionics for the U.S. Navy and Marine Corps. His portfolio primarily encompasses complex, high-technology procurements tied to aircraft manufacturing and aeronautical systems, including mission-critical platforms, flight control systems, and integrated logistics support. Waters operates within a framework of strict compliance with federal acquisition regulations, ensuring technical requirements are met while maintaining fiscal accountability and operational readiness. He maintains consistent, long-term contracting relationships with industry leaders including Sikorsky Aircraft Corporation, Lockheed Martin Corporation, and General Atomics, partnering with prime contractors who deliver advanced aerospace systems and sustainment services. His procurement approach emphasizes performance-based contracting, technical risk mitigation, and integrated product support strategies, often coordinating with engineering and logistics teams to align contractual deliverables with fleet readiness goals. These partnerships are characterized by deep technical collaboration and a focus on lifecycle cost efficiency. Waters’ contracting activity reflects a strong preference for full and open competition, with 100% of his awards issued without socioeconomic set-asides. While he does not routinely utilize 8(a), HUBZone, or SDVOSB programs, his focus remains on securing mission-critical capabilities from established industry partners with proven technical expertise and production capacity. His primary procurement focus lies in NAICS 336411 (Aircraft Manufacturing) and 334511 (Aeronautical System and Instrument Manufacturing), encompassing carrier-based and expeditionary aircraft, radar and targeting systems, unmanned aerial vehicles, and associated avionics. His domain expertise centers on complex systems integration, flight safety compliance, and defense-specific supply chain management.