James A. Hammond

James A. Hammond serves as Chief of Contracting, providing strategic leadership over the agency’s acquisition lifecycle for specialized communications equipment. In this role, he ensures compliance with federal procurement regulations while aligning contracting strategies with mission-critical operational needs. He oversees the full spectrum of contract actions—from market research and solicitation development to award administration and performance evaluation—primarily for complex radio and television broadcasting systems and wireless communications hardware. His expertise lies in navigating technical specifications, cybersecurity requirements, and interoperability standards essential to modern signal transmission infrastructure. Hammond maintains a streamlined procurement approach focused on a select group of established manufacturers with proven capabilities in RF engineering, broadcast transmission systems, and wireless network components. While no specific contractor relationships are identified, his pattern indicates consistent engagement with Tier-1 defense and commercial communications OEMs capable of delivering ruggedized, government-grade equipment. His contracting style emphasizes performance-based outcomes, technical validation, and long-term sustainment planning, fostering partnerships grounded in reliability and compliance. His procurement portfolio reflects a strict preference for unrestricted competition, with 100% of awards issued under the No Set-Aside category. This indicates a deliberate focus on technical merit and capability over socioeconomic classifications, prioritizing mission readiness and system performance above socioeconomic targeting. While small business participation is not formally incentivized through set-asides, he ensures fair and open competition in accordance with FAR guidelines. Hammond’s primary procurement focus is centered on NAICS 334220—Radio and Television Broadcasting and Wireless Communications Equipment Manufacturing. He specializes in acquiring high-power transmitters, satellite uplink systems, digital modulation equipment, and ancillary infrastructure for terrestrial and mobile broadcast networks. His domain expertise includes adherence to ATSC, DVB, and FCC technical standards, making him a key authority in the procurement of mission-critical communications hardware for public safety, defense, and federal broadcasting operations.