Kristina J. Croake

Kristina J. Croake serves as a Contracting Officer at the Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL), where she manages complex research and development acquisitions critical to maintaining U.S. air and space dominance. Her portfolio focuses on foundational and applied science and technology initiatives, including artificial intelligence, autonomous systems, secure communications, and advanced aerospace platforms. As a key procurement lead within FA8652, she ensures timely and compliant execution of contracts that transition cutting-edge innovations from laboratory environments to operational use, aligning acquisitions with AFRL’s mission to accelerate technology readiness and warfighter capability. Croake maintains a strong working relationship with Engineering Resource Group Inc., a primary contractor supporting AFRL’s technical R&D efforts. Her contracting patterns reflect a preference for established technical service providers with proven expertise in engineering, systems integration, and scientific support. She frequently collaborates with vendors capable of delivering specialized, high-risk research services under cost-reimbursement and time-and-materials contract types, fostering long-term partnerships built on technical agility and mission alignment. A dedicated advocate for small business participation, Croake consistently prioritizes Small Business Set-Asides under FAR 19.5, with approximately 70% of her awards reserved for small businesses. This reflects a strategic commitment to broadening the defense innovation base and enabling agile, niche providers to contribute to high-priority AFRL programs. Her socioeconomic contracting patterns emphasize inclusive competition while maintaining rigorous performance standards. Her procurement focus is overwhelmingly centered on NAICS 541715—Research and Development in the Physical, Engineering, and Life Sciences—accounting for nearly 78% of her activity. She also regularly procures Custom Computer Programming Services (NAICS 541511) and Professional and Management Development Training (NAICS 611430) to support workforce readiness and software development needs. Her expertise lies in acquiring advanced scientific services, computational modeling, and mission-critical R&D support for next-generation aerospace systems.