2d Lt Melissa D Christman

Captain Melissa Christman, USAF, serves as a key procurement lead within the FA2291 AFLCMC C3NK, supporting the Department of the Air Force’s mission to modernize command, control, communications, and network (C3N) capabilities for contested air and space operations. She manages acquisition programs focused on securing tactical and strategic C3N infrastructure, with an emphasis on resilient communications systems, high-performance computing platforms, and next-generation radio waveforms. Her portfolio includes engineering, software development, and specialized hardware procurement to ensure interoperability and operational readiness across dynamic threat environments. Captain Christman maintains a consistent working relationship with Liberty Communications, Inc., a primary contractor for secure communications systems and network integration services. Her contracting approach favors established vendors with proven expertise in military-grade C3N solutions, while actively engaging with small businesses to meet mission-critical requirements. She fosters collaborative partnerships that prioritize technical compliance, cybersecurity adherence, and rapid prototyping capabilities essential for fielding next-generation capabilities. Her procurement strategy reflects a balanced approach to socioeconomic goals, with approximately one-third of awards structured as Total Small Business Set-Asides under FAR 19.5, demonstrating a deliberate commitment to expanding small business participation in advanced C3N programs. While the majority of acquisitions are open to all competitors, she strategically leverages small business set-asides to cultivate innovation and enhance supply chain resilience. Captain Christman’s primary NAICS focus areas include 541330 (Engineering Services) for system architecture and integration, 541511 (Custom Computer Programming Services) for secure software development and mission-critical applications, and 337215 (Showcase, Partition, Shelving, and Locker Manufacturing) for specialized enclosures and ruggedized hardware housings used in field-deployable C3N nodes. Her technical expertise spans secure networking, embedded systems, and tactical computing infrastructure, positioning her as a critical enabler of Air Force digital modernization initiatives.