Norman L. Willis

Norman L. Willis serves as a Contracting Officer within the Air Force Research Laboratory’s Propulsion Directorate (FA8650), where he leads the acquisition of advanced aerospace technologies critical to U.S. air and space dominance. He manages complex research and development contracts focused on next-generation propulsion systems, hypersonic flight technologies, and high-performance functional materials. His portfolio supports mission-critical R&D initiatives that bridge fundamental science with operational capability, ensuring rapid transition of innovations from laboratory to field. Willis specializes in full lifecycle contract management for engineering services, prototype development, and materials characterization, working closely with technical leads to align procurement strategy with scientific objectives. His primary contractor relationships include UES INC, General Electric Company, DCS Corporation, Spirit Aerosystems Inc., and Advanced Thermoplastic Composites LLC—leading firms with deep expertise in propulsion systems, aerodynamic modeling, composite materials, and flight control integration. Willis fosters long-term, performance-based partnerships with these industry leaders, emphasizing technical innovation, agile acquisition practices, and rigorous compliance with federal aerospace standards. His contracting approach prioritizes technical excellence and schedule certainty, often leveraging Other Transaction Authorities and cost-reimbursement mechanisms to accelerate development timelines. Willis’s procurement portfolio reflects a 100% no set-aside preference, indicating a focus on mission-critical capabilities requiring specialized technical expertise typically available only through large, established defense contractors with advanced engineering infrastructure. While small business participation is not formally set-aside, he actively encourages teaming arrangements and subcontracting opportunities aligned with prime contractor obligations under federal acquisition regulations. His primary NAICS focus is 541712—Research and Development in the Physical, Engineering, and Life Sciences—reflecting his domain expertise in propulsion systems, materials science, and adaptive flight technologies. He also procures specialized metal processing and testing services under 212290, supporting advanced alloy development for extreme-environment applications. Willis’s work is grounded in technical rigor, ensuring that acquisitions deliver scientifically validated solutions to sustain Air Force superiority in high-threat operational environments.