Major John Imhoff

Major John Imhoff serves as Program Manager for the Air Force Research Laboratory’s Propulsion Directorate (AFRL/PR), where he leads the strategic planning and execution of high-priority research and development acquisitions in aerospace propulsion, hypersonics, and advanced materials. In this role, he bridges technical innovation with procurement execution, ensuring that cutting-edge propulsion systems and adaptive flight control technologies transition from laboratory prototypes to mission-critical capabilities. His acquisitions are primarily classified as R&D under NAICS 541712, encompassing fundamental and applied engineering research, materials characterization, and prototype development for next-generation air and space platforms. He works closely with technical leads and acquisition stakeholders to align contract requirements with AFRL’s mission of sustaining U.S. air and space dominance through technological superiority. Major Imhoff maintains long-standing partnerships with industry leaders including UES INC, General Electric Company, DCS Corporation, Spirit Aerosystems Inc, and Advanced Thermoplastic Composites LLC. These relationships are built on deep technical collaboration, with contractors often serving as prime integrators of complex propulsion systems, high-temperature materials, and computational modeling tools. His procurement approach emphasizes performance-based outcomes and technical feasibility over cost-driven competition, fostering vendor engagement through early industry outreach, collaborative prototyping, and phased development contracts. Major Imhoff’s portfolio reflects a 100% non-set-aside contracting strategy, with no preference for 8(a), HUBZone, or SDVOSB programs. His focus remains on securing the highest technical capability to meet mission-critical timelines, prioritizing proven expertise and system readiness over socioeconomic classifications. This approach underscores the unique nature of AFRL’s advanced R&D environment, where specialized capabilities are often available only from a limited pool of highly qualified vendors. His primary industry focus is on NAICS 541712, with acquisitions centered on physical and engineering sciences, including propulsion system design, hypersonic aerothermodynamics, ceramic matrix composites, and functional materials for extreme environments. He routinely procures advanced simulation software, wind tunnel testing services, and flight-test instrumentation, ensuring that research outputs directly support the Air Force’s next-generation propulsion roadmap.