Nick Braun

Nick Braun serves as a Contract Negotiator within the Air Force Research Laboratory’s Propulsion Directorate (FA8650), where he plays a pivotal role in securing advanced aerospace technologies critical to U.S. air and space dominance. Responsible for negotiating complex procurement agreements, he facilitates the acquisition of next-generation propulsion systems, hypersonic flight components, and high-performance functional materials. His work directly supports the agency’s mission to accelerate the transition from fundamental research to operational capability, ensuring timely delivery of mission-critical technologies through strategic contract execution and risk-managed negotiations. Braun maintains consistent, high-impact relationships with leading defense and aerospace contractors including UES Inc., General Electric Company, DCS Corporation, Spirit Aerosystems Inc., and Advanced Thermoplastic Composites LLC. These partnerships span the full lifecycle of propulsion and materials development—from basic research and prototyping to flight-ready system integration. His negotiation approach emphasizes technical alignment, performance-based outcomes, and long-term vendor collaboration, fostering trusted relationships with firms possessing deep expertise in turbomachinery, combustion systems, and advanced composite manufacturing. Notably, Braun’s contracting portfolio reflects a 100% no set-aside preference, indicating a focus on mission-critical capabilities where technical superiority and industrial capacity outweigh socioeconomic targeting. While small business participation is not formally prioritized in award structure, his engagements often involve small business subcontractors embedded within prime contractor teams, ensuring innovation infusion without compromising performance requirements. His procurement activities center on advanced aerospace propulsion, hypersonics, and high-temperature materials systems, aligning with NAICS categories related to aerospace product and parts manufacturing and scientific R&D services. He routinely negotiates contracts for turbine engine components, adaptive flight control hardware, ceramic matrix composites, and thermal protection systems, demonstrating deep familiarity with technical specifications, defense acquisition regulations, and the unique challenges of high-risk, high-reward propulsion development.