James L. Recker

James Recker serves as the primary contracting professional for the FA8205 Aflcmc Wauk, a critical unit within the Department of the Air Force responsible for sustaining and modernizing high-performance aerospace platforms, particularly the F-22 Raptor. In this role, he manages the acquisition of mission-critical aerospace subsystems, precision test instrumentation, environmental control components, and specialized fluid systems essential to operational readiness. His procurement portfolio is tightly aligned with the agency’s strategic imperative to maintain air superiority through advanced technical capabilities, requiring deep technical understanding of aeronautical systems and rigorous compliance with defense acquisition regulations. Recker’s contractor relationships are centered on specialized manufacturers and engineering firms with proven expertise in classified and high-integrity aerospace components. He routinely engages with vendors capable of delivering certified, ITAR-compliant hardware and services, often requiring secure supply chains and DoD-authorized production facilities. While no single contractor dominates his portfolio, his working relationships emphasize technical fidelity, past performance in military aviation, and adherence to stringent quality assurance protocols, fostering long-term partnerships with niche suppliers possessing unique certification capabilities. Recker’s contracting activity is entirely non-set-aside, with 100% of acquisitions conducted under full and open competition. This reflects the highly specialized nature of the systems procured, where only a limited pool of qualified vendors possesses the requisite technical certifications, security clearances, and production capabilities. While small business participation is not formally prioritized through socioeconomic set-asides, he ensures fair access for all qualified offerors through transparent solicitation practices and rigorous evaluation criteria. His primary procurement focus lies in NAICS 325920 (Explosives Manufacturing), reflecting the acquisition of propulsion test components and ordnance-related instrumentation, alongside significant activity in 334511 (aeronautical systems and instrument manufacturing) and 336413 (aircraft auxiliary equipment). He possesses deep domain expertise in avionics integration, flight test support systems, and high-pressure fluid handling technologies essential to fifth-generation fighter sustainment.