James Griffin

Andrea M.T. Ross serves as the primary Point of Contact for the Innovative Technology Partnerships Office within NASA, facilitating the acquisition of mission-critical software and high-performance computing services that underpin space exploration and aeronautics research. In this role, she enables the office’s strategic mission to modernize NASA’s enterprise software infrastructure by coordinating procurement activities for advanced computing, data analytics, simulation platforms, and secure cloud-based systems. Her responsibilities include managing the full lifecycle of solicitations, evaluating technical proposals, and ensuring compliance with federal acquisition regulations, with a focus on delivering scalable, secure, and interoperable IT solutions for NASA’s scientific and engineering operations. While specific contractor names are not publicly disclosed, Ross maintains consistent engagement with a diverse ecosystem of technology vendors, including firms specializing in enterprise software development, systems integration, and cybersecurity services. Her working relationships reflect a preference for agile, innovation-driven partners capable of delivering rapid prototyping, DevSecOps pipelines, and mission-critical software modernization. She collaborates closely with vendors to align technical capabilities with NASA’s operational requirements, emphasizing flexibility, scalability, and compliance with NIST and NASA-specific cybersecurity standards. Ross demonstrates a strong commitment to small business participation, with over 38% of her procurement activity directed toward small business set-asides under FAR 19.5, including both total and partial set-asides. A notable 7.7% of awards are reserved for service-disabled veteran-owned small businesses, reflecting a deliberate effort to broaden vendor diversity and leverage socioeconomic programs to foster innovation. Her contracting patterns prioritize inclusion while maintaining rigorous technical standards. Her primary procurement focus lies in NAICS 541519 (Other Computer Related Services) and 541512 (Computer Systems Design Services), reflecting deep expertise in custom software development, algorithmic modeling, and high-performance computing infrastructure. She frequently procures services related to AI/ML pipelines, real-time data processing, and secure enterprise platforms, supporting NASA’s mission to advance scientific discovery through cutting-edge computational capabilities.