Jill M. Kline

Jill M. Kline serves as a Contracting Officer for the Maritime Administration under the U.S. Department of Transportation, where she manages the acquisition of critical maritime infrastructure and support services essential to national defense and commercial shipping readiness. Her portfolio centers on procuring strategic capabilities that sustain the National Defense Reserve Fleet, support the U.S. Merchant Marine, and enhance operational readiness at the United States Merchant Marine Academy. Kline specializes in complex, mission-critical contracts spanning both technical services and deep-sea logistics, ensuring compliance with federal acquisition regulations while advancing the agency’s strategic objectives in maritime security and workforce development. Kline maintains a consistent working relationship with CONNECTA SATELLITE SOLUTIONS LLC, a key vendor providing advanced satellite communications and maritime connectivity solutions. Her contracting patterns reflect a preference for long-term, performance-based partnerships with specialized technology providers and service contractors capable of supporting the unique operational demands of federal maritime assets. She prioritizes vendors with proven expertise in secure, resilient communications systems and maritime logistics, fostering collaborative relationships grounded in technical proficiency and regulatory compliance. Kline’s procurement strategy reflects an even split between open competitions and Total Small Business Set-Asides under FAR 19.5, demonstrating a strong commitment to socioeconomic inclusion. She actively promotes opportunities for small businesses, particularly those certified under the Small Business Administration’s programs, ensuring equitable access to maritime-related contracts without reliance on other set-aside categories such as 8(a) or HUBZone. Her primary procurement focus lies in NAICS 541820 (Public Relations Agencies) and 483111 (Deep Sea Freight Transportation), reflecting a dual emphasis on strategic communications for maritime outreach and the operational transport of cargo via deep-sea vessels. Kline’s expertise spans public affairs support for federal maritime programs and the procurement of commercial shipping services that align with national defense preparedness, making her a pivotal figure in sustaining the nation’s maritime industrial base.