Paulette S. L. Windley

Paulette S. L. Windley serves as a Contracting Officer within the Air Force Research Laboratory’s RDK division (FA9451), where she manages the acquisition of critical research and administrative services to advance national security technologies. Her portfolio centers on high-priority R&D initiatives in directed energy, electro-optics, laser systems, and advanced instrumentation, ensuring timely procurement of scientific and engineering support essential to air dominance capabilities. She oversees full and open competitions as well as 8(a) set-asides, aligning acquisition strategies with the lab’s mission to pioneer next-generation aerospace technologies through agile, compliant contracting practices. Windley cultivates strategic partnerships with a diverse range of contractors, including large defense science and engineering firms and specialized small businesses capable of delivering complex technical services. While no single contractor dominates her portfolio, her procurement patterns reflect a balanced approach between established industry leaders and innovative small businesses with expertise in physical sciences, laser vulnerability research, and advanced instrumentation development. She emphasizes performance-based contracting and risk-managed acquisition pathways to ensure mission-critical deliverables meet rigorous technical and operational standards. Her set-aside preferences show a strong commitment to socioeconomic contracting, with 8(a) competed awards comprising 20% of her activity, demonstrating intentional support for small disadvantaged businesses. The remaining 80% of her acquisitions are conducted as full and open competitions, reflecting a preference for broad market engagement while still prioritizing small business inclusion where capabilities align. This balanced approach ensures competitive rigor without compromising access for qualified emerging vendors. Windley’s primary NAICS focus is evenly split between Office Administrative Services (561110) and Research and Development in the Physical, Engineering, and Life Sciences (541712), underscoring her dual role in procuring both foundational administrative support and cutting-edge scientific R&D. She regularly acquires technical services related to laser system testing, electro-optical modeling, and advanced sensor development, making her a key enabler of AFRL’s mission to deliver transformative aerospace capabilities.