Karen M Marino

Karen M. Marino serves as the primary contracting lead at the Volpe National Transportation Systems Center, a key research and technical support arm of the U.S. Department of Transportation. In this role, she manages the acquisition of specialized professional and technical services critical to advancing transportation safety, intelligent systems, and rail infrastructure modernization. Her portfolio centers on data analytics, software development, and engineering consulting services that support automated driving systems, rail equipment lifecycle management, and operational efficiency initiatives. Marino ensures compliance with federal procurement regulations while aligning acquisitions with the agency’s mission to deliver evidence-based, technology-driven transportation solutions. Her primary contractor relationships are anchored by long-standing partnerships with EBenezer Railcar Services, Inc., reflecting a focus on rail-specific technical services and maintenance expertise. She frequently engages vendors offering systems integration, software development, and scientific consulting, fostering collaborative, performance-based contracting arrangements that emphasize technical rigor and deliverables aligned with federal transportation priorities. Her procurement approach prioritizes vendor reliability, domain-specific experience, and adherence to federal standards for transportation safety and cybersecurity. Marino’s contracting activity reflects a strong preference for open competition, with 88.7% of awards issued without set-asides. Nevertheless, she consistently supports small business participation, with 11.3% of awards directed under Total Small Business Set-Asides in accordance with FAR 19.5. While she does not frequently utilize 8(a), HUBZone, or SDVOSB programs, her approach ensures meaningful opportunities for qualified small businesses within the broader professional services sector. Her primary NAICS focus includes 541990 (All Other Professional, Scientific, and Technical Services) and 541690 (Other Scientific and Technical Consulting Services), underscoring demand for applied research, data analytics, and systems engineering. She also procures computer software and IT services under 541519 and 423430, reflecting the Center’s reliance on digital platforms for traffic modeling, rail asset tracking, and intelligent transportation system deployment. Her expertise lies in acquiring technically complex, mission-critical services that bridge engineering, software, and transportation policy.