Paula R. Armstead

Paula R. Armstead serves as a Contract Specialist within the U.S. Coast Guard’s Headquarters Contract Operations (CG-912), where she plays a pivotal role in executing strategic acquisitions that support national maritime security and operational readiness. She manages the full lifecycle of contracts for aerospace, maritime, and technical services critical to enhancing coastal patrol capabilities, maritime domain awareness systems, and vessel modernization programs. Her portfolio is focused on complex, mission-critical procurements that ensure the Coast Guard maintains a technologically advanced and sustainably supported fleet, with particular emphasis on search, detection, and surveillance systems. Armstead maintains long-standing relationships with a select group of specialized shipbuilders and maritime defense contractors, including Bollinger Shipyards Lockport, L.L.C., Davie Defense Inc., Rauma Marine Constructions Oy, and Rozema’s Boat Works, Inc. These partnerships are characterized by collaborative, performance-based contracting approaches tailored to the unique engineering and compliance requirements of Coast Guard vessels and systems. Her work involves close coordination with technical stakeholders to ensure deliverables meet stringent operational and safety standards. She demonstrates an unwavering commitment to small business participation, directing 100% of her acquisitions toward Total Small Business Set-Asides under FAR 19.5. This consistent preference ensures that small, innovative firms have equitable access to high-impact maritime contracts, fostering a resilient and diverse supplier base aligned with Coast Guard mission needs. Her primary procurement focus is on NAICS 561621 (Security Systems Services), encompassing integrated surveillance, detection, and maritime security systems. She specializes in acquiring advanced sensor networks, radar and sonar integration, command and control interfaces, and cybersecurity-enabled monitoring platforms that enhance the Coast Guard’s ability to detect and respond to threats across coastal and riverine environments.