Maxine M Birst

Maxine M. Birst serves as a Contract Specialist within the Naval Air Systems Command (NAVAIR), where she plays a pivotal role in managing the acquisition lifecycle for critical naval aviation systems. Her responsibilities encompass the full spectrum of contract execution—from requirements validation and solicitation development to award and contract administration—for complex aerospace and logistics solutions. She supports NAVAIR’s mission to sustain and modernize carrier-based and expeditionary aircraft fleets by ensuring timely, compliant, and cost-effective procurement of advanced avionics, aircraft platforms, and mission-critical support services. Her acquisitions typically involve high-technology systems requiring rigorous technical oversight and lifecycle sustainment planning. Birst maintains longstanding contracting relationships with leading defense prime contractors including Sikorsky Aircraft Corporation, Lockheed Martin Corporation, and General Atomics, partnering with organizations that deliver advanced aircraft manufacturing, propulsion systems, and integrated mission support. She frequently engages with specialized logistics and training providers such as Global Air Logistics and Training, Inc., ensuring operational readiness through integrated sustainment solutions. Her procurement approach emphasizes technical rigor, performance-based contracting, and risk mitigation in high-stakes aerospace environments. Birst’s contracting portfolio reflects a strong preference for full and open competition, with 100% of her awards issued without set-asides, indicating a focus on mission-critical capabilities requiring specialized expertise typically found only among large, established defense contractors. While small business participation is not a primary mechanism in her current portfolio, her work remains fully aligned with federal acquisition regulations and strategic sourcing objectives. Her primary procurement focus lies in NAICS 488190 (Other Support Activities for Air Transportation), encompassing maintenance, logistics, and training support; NAICS 336411 (Aircraft Manufacturing) and 336412 (Aircraft Engine and Engine Parts Manufacturing) for airframe and propulsion systems; and NAICS 541330 (Engineering Services) for technical design and integration. She specializes in procuring advanced aeronautical systems, avionics, and mission-critical support infrastructure essential to naval air superiority.