Marie L. Hickox

Marie L. Hickox serves as a Contracting Officer for the Missile Defense Agency (MDA), where she plays a pivotal role in securing critical technologies that advance the nation’s layered missile defense capabilities. She manages the full lifecycle of complex acquisitions for research, development, and fielding of guided missile systems, sensor architectures, and integrated battle management solutions. Her portfolio supports MDA’s mission to counter evolving ballistic missile threats through rapid innovation and systems integration across midcourse and terminal-phase interceptors. Hickox specializes in high-stakes, technically demanding contracts requiring stringent compliance with defense acquisition regulations and rapid prototyping authorities. She maintains sustained partnerships with prime defense contractors including Lockheed Martin Corp. and Northrop Grumman Systems Corporation, frequently collaborating on multi-year, systems-engineering-intensive programs involving radar modernization, kinetic interceptors, and command-and-control architectures. Her working relationships are characterized by deep technical engagement, rigorous performance oversight, and alignment with MDA’s acquisition strategy for integrated defense systems. Jacobs Technology Inc. also features prominently as a key provider of engineering and technical services supporting test and evaluation activities. Hickox’s contracting patterns reflect a strong emphasis on open competition, with 80% of her awards issued without set-asides. However, she consistently supports small business participation, allocating approximately 20% of her portfolio to Total Small Business Set-Asides under FAR 19.5, fostering innovation through agile vendors capable of rapid prototyping and systems integration. Her primary procurement focus lies in NAICS 541712 (Research and Development in Physical and Engineering Sciences) and 336414 (Guided Missile and Space Vehicle Manufacturing), reflecting her expertise in advanced defense R&D, guidance system development, and missile production. She regularly procures cutting-edge technologies in sensor fusion, hypersonic countermeasures, and battle management software, ensuring the U.S. maintains technological superiority in missile defense.