James M. Hairfield

James M. Hairfield serves as a Contracting Officer within the Contracts and Acquisitions Management unit of the U.S. Department of Education, where he oversees the procurement of professional services critical to advancing federal education policy, regulatory compliance, and institutional capacity. His portfolio centers on acquiring technical, analytical, and operational support services that enhance data collection systems, strengthen federal student aid infrastructure, and enable evidence-based decision-making in postsecondary education. Hairfield manages a diverse range of acquisitions under FAR Part 12 and Part 36, primarily utilizing performance-based contracting and indefinite-delivery/indefinite-quantity (IDIQ) vehicles to ensure agile and responsive service delivery. He maintains a sustained working relationship with LPE-STRATEGIES LLC, a key vendor providing strategic consulting and systems support services, and regularly engages with a network of qualified contractors delivering IT modernization, data analytics, and educational research capabilities. His procurement patterns reflect a preference for established, experienced firms with demonstrated expertise in federal education systems, while maintaining open competition to ensure value and accountability. Hairfield’s set-aside preferences reflect a balanced approach to socioeconomic contracting: while 73.7% of his awards are unrestricted, he consistently allocates 21.1% to total small business set-asides under FAR 19.5 and 5.3% to 8(a) competed contracts, demonstrating a deliberate commitment to expanding opportunities for small disadvantaged businesses without compromising mission-critical requirements. His primary procurement focus lies in NAICS 423430 (computer and software wholesale), 511210 (software publishing), and 541519 (other computer-related services), indicating a strong emphasis on digital infrastructure, software solutions, and technical support services. He also procures services under NAICS 541512 (computer systems design) and 611710 (educational support), reflecting expertise in integrating technology with educational policy implementation and institutional operational needs.