Otis Merritt

Otis Merritt, designated as an SK1 Contracting Officer within the SFLC Procurement Branch 2 (70Z085) of the U.S. Coast Guard, plays a pivotal role in executing acquisition strategies that sustain and modernize the Coast Guard’s fleet of cutters and maritime vessels. Responsible for managing complex procurement actions under the Department of Homeland Security, Merritt oversees contracts critical to shipbuilding, repair, and maintenance operations essential for operational readiness across coastal and open-ocean missions. His portfolio primarily includes acquisition actions governed by FAR Part 13 and Part 14, with a focus on industrial marine services, vessel infrastructure, and specialized maritime equipment. He ensures compliance with lifecycle management requirements while aligning procurements with the Coast Guard’s strategic modernization objectives. Merritt maintains consistent working relationships with key industrial partners including ROLLS-ROYCE SOLUTIONS AMERICA INC, VIGOR MARINE LLC, JAG INDUSTRIAL SERVICES, INC, G I INDUSTRIAL-MARINE, LLC, and L1 ENTERPRISES INCORPORATED. These contractors provide critical shipyard services, marine system integration, and vessel maintenance capabilities. His procurement approach emphasizes long-term vendor partnerships grounded in technical proficiency, quality assurance, and performance-based contracting, ensuring reliable delivery of mission-critical maritime infrastructure support. While the majority of his acquisitions—75%—are conducted without set-asides, Merritt consistently allocates 25% of his portfolio to Total Small Business Set-Asides under FAR 19.5, demonstrating a deliberate commitment to small business participation. He prioritizes small businesses with proven maritime industrial experience, fostering a competitive environment that enhances innovation and capacity within the defense industrial base. His primary NAICS focus areas—336611 (Ship Building and Repairing), 337215 (Showcase, Partition, Shelving, and Locker Manufacturing), and 458110 (Clothing and Clothing Accessories Retailers)—reflect a diverse yet mission-aligned procurement profile. While shipbuilding and repair dominate, the inclusion of specialized storage solutions and uniform procurement indicates an integrated approach to vessel readiness, encompassing both structural and crew-support systems.