Karen J. Fusselman

Karen J. Fusselman serves as a Purchasing Agent for the Custer Gallatin National Forest, where she plays a pivotal role in executing mission-critical acquisitions that support forest infrastructure, public safety, and ecological stewardship. Responsible for managing the full procurement lifecycle—from market research and solicitation to contract award and administration—she ensures compliance with federal acquisition regulations while aligning purchases with the U.S. Forest Service’s operational priorities. Her portfolio includes contracts for facility maintenance, environmental compliance equipment, signage, and janitorial services essential to sustaining public access and resource protection across vast federally managed lands. Fusselman maintains consistent working relationships with a core group of contractors, including YOUNG GUN CONSTRUCTION LLC, TK3, LLC, and KOMMODITIES CORP, each of which has demonstrated reliability in delivering specialized goods and services tailored to remote, high-impact environments. Her procurement approach emphasizes vendor accountability, performance-based outcomes, and timely delivery under challenging logistical conditions, fostering long-term partnerships built on technical competency and regulatory adherence. A staunch advocate for small business participation, Fusselman directs 100% of her acquisitions toward full small business set-asides under FAR 19.5, ensuring equitable access for disadvantaged and locally based enterprises. Her contracting patterns reflect a deliberate commitment to socioeconomic goals, consistently prioritizing small businesses without requiring additional set-aside classifications, thereby maximizing community impact and economic resilience within the regions served by the forest. Her primary procurement focus lies in four NAICS categories: 334513 for environmental monitoring and control instrumentation, 561720 for janitorial and facility support services, 339950 for custom signage and wayfinding systems, and 321999 for specialized wood products used in trail construction and structural maintenance. This technical specialization underscores her expertise in procuring niche, mission-critical goods that support both operational efficiency and ecological integrity in remote, high-use forest environments.