Elesha J Gentry

Elesha J. Gentry serves as a Contracting Officer for the Commanding Officer (N63394) under the Department of the Navy, where she leads the acquisition of mission-critical aerospace components, electronic warfare systems, and specialized engineering services essential to sustaining naval aviation readiness. Her portfolio centers on procuring high-integrity hardware and integrated systems that support aircraft platform modernization, sensor deployment, and cybersecurity-enabled communications infrastructure. Gentry manages full lifecycle contracting actions—from market research and solicitation development to award and contract administration—ensuring compliance with federal acquisition regulations and operational requirements unique to naval aviation environments. She maintains strategic relationships with key industry partners including Aerospace & Commercial Technologies, LLC and Lockheed Martin Corporation, engaging primarily with prime contractors possessing advanced manufacturing capabilities and defense-grade certification. Her contracting approach emphasizes technical proficiency, supply chain resilience, and performance-based outcomes, often requiring rigorous testing and validation protocols for mission-critical assemblies. While she collaborates with large defense primes, her portfolio also integrates a robust network of specialized subcontractors supporting niche fabrication and integration tasks. Gentry demonstrates a strong commitment to small business participation, with nearly half of her awards structured as Total Small Business Set-Asides under FAR 19.5. Her contracting patterns reflect a deliberate focus on enabling small businesses with relevant technical expertise, particularly those certified in manufacturing and engineering services, rather than preference-based set-asides like 8(a) or HUBZone. This balanced approach ensures competitive rigor while expanding access for capable small firms in high-demand technical domains. Her primary procurement focus lies in NAICS 339991 (gaskets and sealing devices), 332312 (fabricated structural metal), and 334511 (aeronautical and navigation systems), reflecting deep expertise in precision mechanical components and sensor integration. She also procures environmental consulting and HVAC services to support facility-level sustainment, underscoring a holistic approach to maintaining operational infrastructure for naval aviation systems.