Frederica H. Zabala

Frederica H. Zabala serves as a Contract Specialist responsible for managing the full lifecycle of complex acquisitions within the defense and automotive supply chain sector. She executes competitive and non-competitive procurements in accordance with the Federal Acquisition Regulation, ensuring compliance with statutory requirements while aligning acquisitions with mission-critical operational needs. Her portfolio primarily involves soliciting, evaluating, and awarding contracts for specialized motor vehicle components, with a focus on safety-critical systems and military-grade vehicle manufacturing. Zabala plays a pivotal role in translating technical requirements into enforceable contract terms, fostering collaboration between engineering stakeholders and industry partners to deliver reliable, high-performance equipment. While specific contractor names are not available, Zabala maintains consistent engagement with manufacturers specializing in automotive subsystems, particularly those capable of meeting stringent defense and commercial vehicle standards. Her procurement approach emphasizes technical capability, quality assurance, and supply chain resilience, fostering long-term partnerships with vendors possessing relevant ISO certifications and defense production experience. She routinely works with firms capable of supporting just-in-time delivery, reverse logistics, and defense-specific compliance frameworks such as ITAR and DFARS. Zabala demonstrates a strong commitment to small business participation, with nearly 27% of her awards structured as Total Small Business Set-Asides under FAR 19.5. Her contracting patterns reflect a deliberate effort to expand opportunities for small manufacturers in the automotive supply chain, prioritizing socioeconomic programs that enhance diversity and innovation without compromising mission readiness. While she does not frequently utilize 8(a), HUBZone, or SDVOSB set-asides, her consistent use of total small business set-asides underscores a strategic focus on broad-based small business engagement. Her primary procurement focus lies in NAICS 336211, 336330, and 336992, reflecting deep expertise in motor vehicle body manufacturing, steering and suspension systems, and armored vehicle component production. She regularly procures brake systems, powertrain parts, and armored vehicle subsystems requiring precision engineering and rigorous testing protocols, positioning her as a key liaison between defense requirements and advanced manufacturing capabilities.