Nicole M Iraheta

Nicole M. Iraheta serves as a Contract Specialist within the Naval Air Systems Command (NAVAIR), where she plays a critical role in executing the lifecycle acquisition of naval aviation systems. Responsible for soliciting, evaluating, and awarding contracts under N00019, she ensures compliance with federal acquisition regulations while supporting NAVAIR’s mission to modernize carrier-based and expeditionary aircraft, avionics, and propulsion systems. Her portfolio primarily encompasses complex technical procurements for aircraft engine manufacturing and mission-critical engine components, requiring deep familiarity with defense acquisition protocols, performance-based contracting, and systems integration requirements. Iraheta maintains consistent procurement relationships with industry leaders such as Sikorsky Aircraft Corporation, Lockheed Martin Corporation, and General Atomics, partnering with prime contractors who deliver advanced aerospace propulsion systems, maintenance support, and integrated avionics solutions. Her contracting approach emphasizes long-term sustainment partnerships, performance incentives, and technical risk mitigation, aligning vendor capabilities with NAVAIR’s operational readiness goals. She frequently engages with Tier 1 defense contractors possessing specialized engineering expertise and established defense supply chain infrastructure. Her contracting activity shows no reliance on socioeconomic set-asides, with 100% of awards issued under full and open competition. This reflects a strategic focus on technical capability over socioeconomic preferences, prioritizing mission-critical performance and industrial base stability. While small business participation is not formally targeted, her awards remain accessible to all qualified vendors under standard FAR procedures. Iraheta’s procurement focus is exclusively centered on NAICS 336412 — Aircraft Engine and Engine Parts Manufacturing — underscoring her specialization in gas turbine propulsion systems, rotorcraft powerplants, and high-performance engine components. She manages acquisitions involving precision machining, materials science, and military-specification testing, requiring technical fluency in aerospace propulsion standards and defense logistics frameworks.