Maureen D. Barlow

Maureen D. Barlow serves as a Contracting Officer responsible for managing complex acquisition programs within the federal procurement system, with a distinct focus on marine and engine equipment procurement. She plays a critical role in ensuring compliance with federal acquisition regulations while delivering mission-critical capabilities to support national defense and maritime operations. Her portfolio primarily consists of full and open competitions and small business set-asides under FAR Part 19, emphasizing timely, transparent, and legally sound contract award processes. She routinely handles solicitation development, source selection, contract negotiation, and post-award administration for high-technical-content procurements. While specific contractor names are not available, Maureen maintains robust working relationships with a diverse range of vendors, particularly those specializing in boat manufacturing and auxiliary engine systems. Her contracting patterns reflect a preference for established industry participants with proven technical capabilities in marine engineering, propulsion systems, and related components. She fosters collaborative vendor engagement through clear solicitation language, structured debriefings, and consistent adherence to procurement integrity standards, encouraging both large and small industry players to compete fairly. Maureen demonstrates a strong commitment to small business participation, with nearly 47% of her awards designated as Total Small Business Set-Asides under FAR 19.5. She prioritizes socioeconomic programs that expand opportunities for small businesses, though no other set-aside categories such as 8(a), HUBZone, or SDVOSB are currently dominant in her portfolio. Her consistent use of small business set-asides signals a deliberate strategy to enhance market access and foster innovation among qualified small manufacturers. Her primary procurement focus lies in NAICS 336612 (Boat Building), accounting for 96.9% of her activity, which includes the acquisition of patrol vessels, workboats, and specialized marine craft. The remaining 3.1% involves NAICS 333618 (Other Engine Equipment Manufacturing), encompassing propulsion systems, marine engines, and related powertrain components. Maureen’s expertise centers on technical domains requiring stringent performance, safety, and durability standards, making her a key steward of maritime acquisition excellence.