Heather M. Rippy

Heather M. Rippy serves as a key procurement professional within the FA4897 366 Cons Pkp unit of the Department of the Air Force, supporting the acquisition of mission-critical communications infrastructure, facility construction, and operational maintenance services. Her work directly enables the sustainment and modernization of air base operations, ensuring resilient radio, broadcasting, and wireless communications systems remain operational under demanding tactical conditions. She manages a diverse portfolio of contracts spanning technical manufacturing, construction, and specialized maintenance, with a focus on delivering secure, high-performance systems that meet stringent military standards for reliability and interoperability. Rippy maintains consistent working relationships with a core group of contractors including TCG Construction Inc., LDIA Holdings, LLC, C-2 Construction Inc., Asphalt Preservation, LLC, and AES Systems Inc. These partnerships reflect a balanced approach to infrastructure development and technical system integration, combining heavy construction capabilities with advanced electronics and communications expertise. Her contracting patterns indicate a preference for established vendors with proven track records in defense-related environments, while still fostering competition through open solicitations and targeted small business opportunities. Her procurement strategy prioritizes open competition, with 80% of awards issued without set-aside restrictions, yet she maintains a deliberate 20% commitment to Total Small Business Set-Asides under FAR 19.5, demonstrating a balanced dedication to both operational readiness and socioeconomic goals. While not heavily reliant on 8(a), HUBZone, or SDVOSB programs, her portfolio consistently includes qualified small businesses capable of delivering specialized technical and construction services. Rippy’s primary technical focus lies in NAICS 334220 for radio and wireless communications equipment manufacturing, with significant alignment to 334516 (analytical laboratory instruments) and 334510 (electromedical apparatus), reflecting a unique blend of defense communications, test instrumentation, and mission-critical electronic systems procurement. Her expertise spans the integration of ruggedized broadcast systems, field-deployable communication hardware, and supporting infrastructure essential to Air Force operational continuity.