Katherine Holcomb

Katherine L. Holcomb serves as a Contract Specialist within the Naval Air Warfare Center Training Systems Division (N61340), where she manages the acquisition of mission-critical training systems for naval aviation and maritime operations. Her role centers on executing full lifecycle procurement activities for advanced simulation, immersive training environments, and avionics infrastructure that enhance pilot and aircrew readiness. She specializes in complex technical acquisitions involving custom software development, engineering services, and instructional systems design, ensuring compliance with federal acquisition regulations while aligning procurements with the Navy’s modernization priorities for tactical combat training. Holcomb maintains established relationships with key contractors including STRACON SERVICES GROUP, LLC and FLIGHTSAFETY INTERNATIONAL INC, both of which provide high-fidelity flight simulators, training curriculum development, and integrated avionics support. Her contracting patterns reflect long-term, performance-based partnerships with vendors capable of delivering scalable, secure, and interoperable training solutions. She consistently engages with industry partners possessing deep domain expertise in military aviation systems, emphasizing technical rigor, rapid prototyping, and lifecycle sustainment. Her procurement approach prioritizes open competition, with 94.4% of her awards issued without set-asides, reflecting the specialized nature of the capabilities required. Nevertheless, she actively supports small business participation, with 5.6% of awards directed toward Total Small Business Set-Asides under FAR 19.5, demonstrating a balanced commitment to both mission necessity and socioeconomic goals. Holcomb’s primary NAICS focus areas include Custom Computer Programming Services, Engineering Services, and All Other Miscellaneous Schools and Instruction, underscoring her expertise in procuring software-defined training platforms, simulation software, and adaptive learning systems. She frequently acquires mission-critical avionics integration, immersive training content, and computer-based instructional systems, making her a key enabler of the Navy’s digital transformation in aviation readiness.