Mona D Zahid

Mona D. Zahid serves as a Contract Specialist within the Naval Air Warfare Center Training Systems Division (N61340), where she plays a pivotal role in acquiring mission-critical training systems that enhance naval aviation readiness. She manages the full lifecycle of procurement actions for advanced simulation platforms, immersive training environments, and avionics infrastructure, ensuring alignment with Department of the Navy modernization priorities. Her portfolio emphasizes complex, technology-driven acquisitions requiring deep technical oversight and compliance with Defense Federal Acquisition Regulation Supplement (DFARS) requirements, particularly in systems integration and cybersecurity standards. Zahid maintains strategic relationships with key contractors including STRACON SERVICES GROUP, LLC and FLIGHTSAFETY INTERNATIONAL INC, both of which provide high-fidelity flight simulators, curriculum development, and training system sustainment services. Her contracting approach reflects a preference for established industry partners with proven expertise in military aviation training, while maintaining flexibility to incorporate innovative solutions from niche technology providers. She consistently engages vendors through competitive sealed bidding and negotiated procurements, prioritizing performance-based contracting and risk-mitigated acquisition strategies. Her procurement patterns demonstrate a strong commitment to small business participation, with nearly 29% of her awards structured as total small business set-asides under FAR 19.5. While the majority of her acquisitions are open to all competitors, she actively leverages small business programs to foster innovation and broaden the supplier base, particularly among firms with expertise in defense-grade simulation and training technologies. Zahid’s primary procurement focus lies within NAICS 334111 (Electronic Computer Manufacturing), 334419 (Other Electronic Component Manufacturing), and 541519 (Other Computer Related Services), reflecting her specialization in embedded systems, real-time training hardware, and software-defined training architectures. She routinely procures mission-critical components such as motion platforms, instructor operator stations, and synthetic environment software, supporting the development of next-generation naval aviation training ecosystems.