James McFarland III

James McFarland III serves as a key procurement lead within the FA4417 1 Socons under the Department of the Air Force, responsible for managing acquisitions that sustain and modernize critical airpower capabilities. He oversees the procurement of advanced communications systems, aeronautical navigation equipment, and integrated base defense technologies essential to operational readiness. His role centers on ensuring timely delivery of mission-enabling infrastructure while aligning with Air Force modernization priorities and cybersecurity standards. McFarland handles complex contracts requiring technical validation, interagency coordination, and compliance with defense acquisition regulations, with a focus on secure, resilient, and interoperable systems. He maintains consistent working relationships with a select group of contractors including AANTILIA LLC, MARRERO, COUVILLON & ASSOCIATES, L.L.C., MATTHES PARKER LLC, L1 ENTERPRISES INCORPORATED, and WALCO ENTERPRISES INC. These partnerships reflect a preference for specialized vendors with proven expertise in defense-grade communications hardware, ruggedized computing peripherals, and mission-critical control systems. McFarland fosters long-term vendor collaboration grounded in performance accountability and technical adaptability, often engaging contractors early in the requirements development phase to ensure solution alignment with operational needs. McFarland demonstrates a strong commitment to small business participation, with 57.1% of his awards structured as total small business set-asides under FAR 19.5. His contracting patterns reflect a deliberate strategy to empower small businesses with relevant technical capabilities, frequently awarding contracts to firms certified under socioeconomic programs without favoring any single category. This approach supports broader Department of Defense goals for industrial base diversity and innovation infusion. His procurement focus is concentrated in NAICS 336999 (All Other Transportation Equipment Manufacturing), with significant activity in computer peripheral equipment (334118), measuring and controlling devices (334519), and niche manufacturing sectors including boat building and surgical supplies. This reflects a broad but purposeful scope, sourcing ruggedized, field-deployable systems that support both aviation and expeditionary operations across diverse environments.