Kelsie Papst

Kelsie Papst supports the procurement mission of the 4th Combat Communications Squadron (FA4809), a critical unit within the Department of the Air Force responsible for deploying resilient, secure communication systems for air operations. Though her formal title is not listed, her role centers on managing acquisitions for mission-critical communications infrastructure, aircraft auxiliary systems, and specialized security services. She facilitates the procurement of advanced radio and broadcast equipment, cybersecurity-enabled hardware, and technical support services essential to sustaining operational readiness in expeditionary and contested environments. Papst maintains consistent working relationships with key contractors including Solomon Engineering, Inc., Textron Systems Corporation, and Western Metal Supply Company, Inc., reflecting a blend of specialized engineering, aerospace component manufacturing, and logistics support partnerships. Her contracting patterns indicate collaboration with firms capable of delivering ruggedized communications hardware, aircraft subsystems, and facility-related technical services, suggesting a preference for vendors with proven expertise in military-grade systems integration and rapid deployment capabilities. Her procurement portfolio demonstrates a strong emphasis on small business participation, with 36% of awards designated as Total Small Business Set-Asides under FAR 19.5 and an additional 8% reserved for Women-Owned Small Businesses. While the majority of contracts remain open to all competitors, her consistent use of socioeconomic set-asides signals a deliberate strategy to broaden vendor diversity and foster innovation from niche suppliers. Papst’s primary NAICS focus includes Office Administrative Services (561110), Independent Artists/Writers (711510), and Flooring Contractors (238330)—categories likely tied to facility support and mission-enabling services—while her technical procurement priorities align with Radio and Television Broadcasting Equipment Manufacturing (334220) and Other Aircraft Parts and Auxiliary Equipment Manufacturing (336413). This reflects deep expertise in securing secure communication systems, airborne electronics, and mission-support infrastructure critical to Air Force combat communications operations.