Joy M. Smith

Joy M. Smith serves as a Contracting Officer within the Missile Defense Agency (MDA), responsible for managing complex acquisitions critical to the development and fielding of integrated missile defense systems. She oversees the full lifecycle of contracts supporting research, engineering, and manufacturing of advanced guided missile technologies, including sensor modernization, midcourse interception systems, and terminal-phase defense architectures. Her portfolio aligns with MDA’s strategic mission to deliver layered, multi-domain missile defense capabilities through rapid prototyping and operational testing. Smith specializes in high-stakes, technology-driven procurements requiring stringent compliance with defense acquisition regulations and national security requirements. Smith maintains longstanding contractual relationships with prime defense contractors including Lockheed Martin Corp. and Northrop Grumman Systems Corporation, reflecting a reliance on industry leaders with deep expertise in aerospace and missile systems integration. She also frequently engages Jacobs Technology Inc. for engineering support and test infrastructure services. Her procurement patterns emphasize long-term, performance-based partnerships with firms possessing proven track records in classified defense programs, ensuring technical continuity and mission readiness across evolving threat environments. Smith’s contracting activity reflects a 100% no set-aside preference, indicating a focus on full and open competition to secure the most capable and technologically advanced solutions for national missile defense. While small business participation is not formally prioritized through socioeconomic set-asides, she ensures compliance with all applicable small business subcontracting requirements under FAR Part 19, facilitating opportunities for qualified small businesses as subcontractors within prime contractor teams. Her primary procurement focus lies in NAICS 541712 (Research and Development in Physical, Engineering, and Life Sciences), accounting for 70% of her portfolio, and NAICS 336414 (Guided Missile and Space Vehicle Manufacturing), representing 30%. She regularly procures advanced radar systems, kinetic interceptors, battle management software, and sensor fusion technologies, demonstrating deep expertise in missile defense engineering, systems integration, and defense R&D contracting.