Marcia A Smith

Marcia A. Smith serves as the CRIIS Business Director, overseeing the strategic acquisition of mission-critical information systems and technology solutions to support national security and defense operations. In this leadership role, she directs the planning, solicitation, and award of complex contracts aligned with enterprise-wide modernization initiatives, ensuring compliance with federal acquisition regulations and mission-aligned outcomes. Her portfolio centers on custom software development, advanced sensor systems, and applied research services, positioning her at the intersection of technical innovation and federal procurement governance. She plays a pivotal role in translating operational requirements into executable contracting strategies that balance performance, affordability, and cybersecurity readiness. While specific contractor names are not disclosed, Smith maintains a robust network of vendors specializing in high-precision engineering, software integration, and systems R&D. Her procurement approach emphasizes performance-based contracting and outcome-driven deliverables, fostering long-term partnerships with firms capable of delivering scalable, secure, and interoperable solutions. She prioritizes vendors with proven technical expertise in defense and aerospace domains, encouraging innovation through competitive bidding and clear statement of work definitions. Smith’s contracting patterns reflect a strong preference for open competition, with 88.9% of awards issued as non-set-aside actions, consistent with the complexity and scale of requirements. However, she actively supports small business participation, allocating 11.1% of awards to Total Small Business Set-Asides under FAR 19.5, demonstrating a deliberate effort to integrate capable small firms into high-impact technical programs without compromising mission needs. Her primary procurement focus lies in NAICS 541511 (Custom Computer Programming Services), accounting for 60% of activity, followed by NAICS 334511 (Aeronautical and Navigation Systems Manufacturing) and NAICS 541712 (Physical and Engineering R&D), each at 20%. These reflect a deep specialization in secure software development, sensor and guidance system procurement, and applied scientific research—areas critical to next-generation defense and intelligence capabilities.