Mark Barber

Mark Barber supports the FA8204 Afnwc Pzbg in advancing critical aerospace defense capabilities through strategic procurement of advanced engineering and mission-critical technology systems. As a key procurement lead within the Department of the Air Force, he manages acquisitions for next-generation missile systems, reentry vehicles, and electromagnetic pulse defense technologies, ensuring alignment with modernization priorities for intercontinental ballistic missile platforms. His responsibilities encompass the full lifecycle of contracting—from requirements definition and source selection to contract award and performance oversight—focusing on high-integrity, low-latency systems that demand rigorous testing and secure integration. Barber cultivates partnerships with a diverse base of defense contractors specializing in electronic computer manufacturing and mission-critical software development. While no single vendor dominates his portfolio, he consistently engages with Tier-1 aerospace primes and niche innovators capable of delivering hardened, radiation-tolerant computing systems and real-time embedded software solutions. His working relationships emphasize technical compliance, supply chain resilience, and adherence to DoD cybersecurity standards, fostering collaboration with vendors who can rapidly prototype and field-deploy classified technologies under tight operational timelines. His contracting approach reflects a balanced commitment to socioeconomic goals, with approximately one-third of acquisitions set aside for total small business participation under FAR 19.5. Though the majority of contracts remain open to all competitors, he actively prioritizes small businesses with proven expertise in electronic systems integration and defense-grade software development, ensuring broad innovation access without compromising mission readiness. Barber’s primary procurement focus lies in NAICS 334111 (Electronic Computer Manufacturing), where he acquires ruggedized computing hardware, radiation-hardened processors, and secure data acquisition systems. He also frequently procures services under NAICS 511210 for custom software development supporting simulation, test instrumentation, and autonomous control systems. His domain expertise centers on secure, high-performance computing architectures essential to modern ICBM sustainment and electromagnetic defense operations.