James D. Findlay

James D. Findlay serves as a key procurement lead within the C5I Division 3 Portsmouth of the U.S. Coast Guard, responsible for managing acquisitions that advance command, control, communications, computers, cyber, and intelligence (C5I) capabilities critical to maritime domain awareness and national security operations. He oversees the acquisition of mission-critical systems including communications infrastructure, navigation sensors, and cyber-enabled surveillance platforms, ensuring alignment with the Coast Guard’s strategic modernization goals. His role involves end-to-end contract execution—from requirements validation through award and performance oversight—supporting the operational resilience of coastal and offshore missions across all domains. Findlay maintains a strong working relationship with TRIMBLE INC, a primary contractor providing precision positioning, navigation, and timing technologies essential to maritime surveillance and asset tracking. His procurement patterns reflect a preference for established industry partners with proven expertise in defense-grade C5I systems, while also engaging with specialized vendors capable of delivering integrated hardware-software solutions. Collaborations are typically performance-based, emphasizing technical compliance, cybersecurity standards, and system interoperability with existing Coast Guard architectures. His contracting activity shows a clear emphasis on open competition, with 71.4% of awards issued under non-set-aside procedures, while 28.6% are competitively awarded to 8(a) certified small businesses. This balance reflects a strategic commitment to fostering innovation from small business entrants without compromising mission readiness or technical rigor. He actively leverages the 8(a) program to cultivate next-generation vendors in defense electronics and systems integration. Findlay’s procurement focus centers on NAICS 541519 (Other Computer Related Services) and 541511 (Custom Computer Programming Services), reflecting heavy investment in software-defined systems, data fusion platforms, and mission-specific application development. He also procures specialized equipment under 334511 (navigation and guidance systems) and 334220 (wireless communications equipment), underscoring expertise in integrating sensor networks, secure radio systems, and real-time data transmission technologies essential to maritime operations.