Michael G. Levels

Michael G. Levels serves as a Contracting Officer at the U.S. Coast Guard’s Research and Development Center (70Z032), where he manages the acquisition of mission-critical technologies that enhance maritime domain awareness, operational resilience, and environmental response capabilities. His portfolio focuses on advanced sensing systems, autonomous platforms, and technical services supporting search and rescue, navigation safety, and maritime security initiatives. As a key procurement lead within the agency’s innovation ecosystem, Levels ensures acquisitions align with strategic R&D priorities while adhering to federal contracting regulations and performance-based acquisition principles. While specific contractor relationships are not currently available, Levels engages with a diverse range of vendors, including technology integrators, engineering service providers, and specialized manufacturers supporting Coast Guard operational needs. His contracting approach emphasizes performance outcomes, technical feasibility, and lifecycle support, fostering partnerships with firms capable of delivering rapid prototyping, system integration, and field-deployable solutions under tight operational timelines. Levels demonstrates a balanced commitment to socioeconomic programs, with approximately one-third of his acquisitions structured as total small business set-asides under FAR 19.5, reflecting a deliberate emphasis on small business participation. Though no set-asides are designated for 8(a), HUBZone, or SDVOSB programs in the current data, his consistent use of small business set-asides signals a strong institutional alignment with federal goals for inclusive contracting. His primary procurement focus centers on NAICS 541620 (Environmental Consulting Services), where he secures expertise in pollution response planning and environmental impact assessments. He also procures navigational services (488330), climate-controlled equipment for field operations (333415), and solid waste management services (562111), reflecting the multidisciplinary nature of Coast Guard R&D operations. His technical expertise spans environmental engineering, maritime logistics, and mission-support infrastructure, positioning him as a critical enabler of the Coast Guard’s technological modernization efforts.