Patricia Settles

Patricia V. Settles serves as a Contract Specialist within the Military Sealift Fleet Support Command (N40446), where she plays a pivotal role in executing procurement actions critical to sustaining the U.S. Navy’s non-combatant fleet. She manages the acquisition of engineering services, vessel maintenance systems, and marine infrastructure upgrades essential to maintaining the seaworthiness and operational readiness of auxiliary ships. Her portfolio primarily encompasses complex, technical contracts requiring deep domain knowledge in naval propulsion systems, environmental control equipment, and shipyard repair capabilities, ensuring compliance with federal acquisition regulations and mission-driven delivery timelines. While specific contractor names are not disclosed, Settles maintains consistent partnerships with a diverse pool of vendors specializing in shipbuilding, marine mechanical systems, and industrial equipment repair. Her procurement approach emphasizes performance-based contracting and lifecycle support, fostering long-term vendor relationships grounded in technical proficiency and reliability. She actively engages with firms capable of delivering customized solutions for aging vessel modernization, emphasizing quality assurance and naval engineering standards. Settles demonstrates a strong commitment to socioeconomic contracting, with 78% of her awards designated as total small business set-asides under FAR 19.5. She routinely prioritizes small disadvantaged businesses, HUBZone firms, and service-disabled veteran-owned small businesses, aligning with Department of the Navy mandates to broaden supplier diversity. Her contracting patterns reflect a deliberate strategy to cultivate a resilient small business industrial base capable of supporting naval sustainment needs. Her primary procurement focus lies in NAICS 336611 (Ship Building and Repairing), reflecting her specialization in vessel overhaul, dry-dock services, and hull integrity upgrades. Secondary areas include commercial and industrial machinery repair (811310) and specialized heating and marine component manufacturing. Settles brings technical expertise in naval auxiliary systems, ensuring acquisitions meet stringent maritime safety, environmental, and operational requirements.