James McFarland

James McFarland III serves as a key procurement lead within the FA4417 1 Socons, a critical unit under the Department of the Air Force responsible for acquiring advanced communications, aeronautical navigation systems, and integrated base defense technologies. He manages the full lifecycle of contract actions for mission-enabling systems that sustain and modernize airpower capabilities, with a focus on secure radio and wireless infrastructure, electronic warfare support tools, and resilient command-and-control platforms. His work directly supports operational readiness by ensuring timely delivery of technically complex, high-assurance systems to forward-deployed and garrisoned air operations. McFarland maintains consistent working relationships with a core 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 firms with proven expertise in defense communications, systems integration, and facility support services. His contracting patterns emphasize long-term vendor collaboration, often leveraging indefinite-delivery/indefinite-quantity (IDIQ) and other flexible contract vehicles to respond rapidly to evolving operational requirements. He demonstrates a strong commitment to small business participation, with over 63% of his awards set aside for total small businesses under FAR 19.5, reflecting a deliberate strategy to broaden the defense industrial base. Additional set-asides include Women-Owned and Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned Small Businesses, aligning with Department of the Air Force socioeconomic goals. His procurement approach prioritizes inclusive competition while maintaining technical rigor. McFarland’s primary NAICS focus areas include security systems services, analytical laboratory instrument manufacturing, and poured concrete foundation contracting—indicating a diverse portfolio that bridges high-tech defense electronics with physical infrastructure resilience. His expertise spans procurement of encrypted communication hardware, test and calibration equipment, and base-level construction supporting secure operations, demonstrating a unique blend of technical and logistical contracting acumen.