Erin M. Howard

Erin M. Howard serves as a Contract Specialist within the Commander (M00264) under the Department of the Navy, where she plays a pivotal role in executing mission-critical acquisitions that sustain and modernize naval warfighting capabilities. She manages a diverse portfolio of contracts focused on advanced sensor systems, tactical computing environments, command and control architectures, and armored vehicle support services. Her work directly supports operational readiness by ensuring timely delivery of cyber-enabled decision tools and mission-critical defense technologies. Howard specializes in complex, technical procurements requiring rigorous systems engineering oversight and compliance with defense acquisition regulations. Howard maintains consistent contracting relationships with a core group of specialized vendors including GOLDBELT HAWK L.L.C., ALEX-ALTERNATIVE EXPERTS, LLC, TNDA TECHNOLOGIES INC., BC MARKET SOLUTIONS LLC, and BIOSPACE, INC. These partners provide niche expertise in defense systems integration, technical advisory services, and specialized manufacturing for naval applications. Her procurement approach emphasizes performance-based contracting and long-term vendor collaboration, fostering reliable supply chains for high-urgency, low-volume defense requirements. While the majority of her acquisitions (78.6%) are conducted without set-asides, Howard demonstrates a deliberate commitment to small business participation, with 21.4% of awards designated as Total Small Business Set-Asides under FAR 19.5. Her contracting patterns reflect a balanced approach—prioritizing technical capability while actively enabling small business entry into the defense industrial base through targeted competition. Her primary procurement focus lies in NAICS 339113 (Surgical Appliance and Supplies Manufacturing), which reflects a unique alignment with specialized protective gear and mission-specific equipment for naval personnel. Secondary emphasis is placed on NAICS 334511 for navigation and guidance systems and 339920 for athletic and protective gear adapted for military use. This technical domain expertise underscores her proficiency in procuring highly engineered, safety-critical systems for frontline naval operations.