Ilze Karklins-Powers (CO)

Ilze Karklins-Powers serves as a Contract Officer responsible for managing complex acquisition programs centered on commercial and institutional construction and related specialty trade services. She plays a pivotal role in ensuring compliance with federal procurement regulations while advancing mission-critical infrastructure and facility support needs. Her portfolio primarily involves soliciting, evaluating, and awarding fixed-price and cost-reimbursement contracts under the Federal Acquisition Regulation, with a strong emphasis on performance-based acquisition methods and rigorous source selection processes. Karklins-Powers routinely handles full and open competitions as well as targeted set-asides, balancing efficiency with equitable access for qualified vendors. She maintains consistent working relationships with a core group of contractors specializing in building construction and facility services, including MCKENZIE CONSTRUCTION & SITE DEVELOPMENT LLC, L1 ENTERPRISES INCORPORATED, and ALL AMERICAN EXPRESS SOLUTIONS LLC. Her procurement patterns reflect a preference for established, experienced firms with proven track records in commercial construction, plumbing, HVAC, and building inspection services. These partnerships are characterized by long-term contract performance, strong compliance, and a focus on quality control and schedule adherence. Karklins-Powers demonstrates a strong commitment to small business participation, with nearly 28% of her awards designated for Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned Small Businesses, reflecting a deliberate effort to support veteran entrepreneurship within the construction sector. While the majority of her acquisitions are set as full and open, she strategically leverages SDVOSB set-asides to meet federal socioeconomic goals without compromising competition or mission readiness. Her primary procurement focus lies in NAICS 236220 (Commercial and Institutional Building Construction), accounting for over 80% of her activity, with additional emphasis on plumbing, heating, air-conditioning, and building inspection services. She possesses deep technical expertise in construction project management, facility maintenance contracts, and specialty trade contracting, ensuring that acquisitions align with structural, safety, and operational standards for government facilities.