Kurt Turck

Kurt Turck serves as a key procurement lead within the Air Force Research Laboratory’s FA8750 RIK office, driving the acquisition of foundational research and development services critical to next-generation aerospace and defense systems. He manages a portfolio focused on advancing autonomous systems, resilient communications, AI-enabled battle-space awareness, and quantum-enabled technologies through scientific innovation. His acquisitions primarily support high-risk, high-reward R&D initiatives requiring deep technical expertise in physical and engineering sciences, often involving university partnerships, federal labs, and specialized defense contractors. Turck ensures alignment between technical requirements and federal acquisition regulations, facilitating rapid prototyping and transition of cutting-edge capabilities from lab to field. Turck maintains consistent working relationships with leading defense and technology firms including Booz Allen Hamilton, Lockheed Martin, Eaton Corporation, Technergetics, LLC, and Caelight, Inc. These partnerships are characterized by long-term, performance-based contracts for advanced research, systems integration, and prototype development. His procurement approach emphasizes technical excellence and innovation readiness, often engaging contractors with proven capabilities in free-space optical communications, AI/ML algorithm development, and quantum sensing. He favors vendors with demonstrated experience in classified and unclassified R&D environments, fostering collaborative, agile contracting models to accelerate technology maturation. Turck’s procurement portfolio reflects a strong preference for open competition, with 100% of awards issued under no set-aside classifications. While small business participation is not formally prioritized through socioeconomic programs such as 8(a), HUBZone, or SDVOSB, his office actively seeks technically capable firms of all sizes, prioritizing mission-critical expertise over socioeconomic status. This approach ensures access to specialized talent and infrastructure necessary for high-complexity R&D tasks. His primary NAICS focus is on 541712 and 541715, encompassing research and development in physical, engineering, and life sciences—excluding biotechnology and nanotechnology. He procures services related to sensor design, signal processing, autonomous control architectures, and advanced materials characterization, reflecting deep domain expertise in aerospace systems innovation.