Eric M. Price

Eric Price serves as a Contract Specialist within the Air Force Research Laboratory’s Rocket Propulsion Division (FA9453), where he plays a pivotal role in executing mission-critical acquisitions that support next-generation space and aerospace technologies. He manages the full lifecycle of procurement actions for research and development contracts, ensuring alignment with the agency’s strategic priorities in space domain awareness, resilient computing, and autonomous space systems. His acquisitions primarily involve advanced instrumentation, high-performance computing architectures, and rapid prototyping initiatives, requiring deep technical understanding and agile contracting methodologies to meet urgent operational needs. Eric collaborates with a diverse ecosystem of contractors, including defense aerospace primes, specialized R&D firms, and engineering service providers, often engaging vendors with proven expertise in propulsion systems, space-grade electronics, and mission-critical software development. His contracting approach emphasizes technical rigor and performance-based outcomes, fostering long-term partnerships with firms capable of delivering innovative solutions under tight timelines. While no single contractor dominates his portfolio, he consistently works with entities possessing DOD clearance, ISO certifications, and demonstrated success in government-funded R&D programs. Eric’s contracting patterns reflect a strong preference for open competition, with 83.3% of awards issued without set-aside designations, indicating a focus on capability-driven selection over socioeconomic criteria. However, he maintains a meaningful commitment to small business participation, with 16.7% of awards directed to 8(a) certified firms, demonstrating a balanced approach that prioritizes innovation while supporting socioeconomic goals. His primary procurement focus lies in NAICS 541715—Research and Development in the Physical, Engineering, and Life Sciences—where he acquires advanced propulsion technologies, space-based sensor systems, and autonomous control algorithms. He also procures facilities support services under NAICS 561210 to sustain test infrastructure and laboratory operations, underscoring his dual expertise in both cutting-edge R&D and mission-enabling logistics.