Rafael A. Manzano

Rafael A. Manzano serves as a Contract Specialist within the W6QK Acc-orlando office of the Department of the Army, where he plays a pivotal role in executing complex technical acquisitions that support modernization of military training systems and defense technology integration. His responsibilities encompass the full lifecycle of contract actions—from market research and solicitation development to award and administration—for engineering services and specialized technical support critical to live-fire simulation, mission command systems, and aviation/artillery training infrastructure. Manzano ensures compliance with federal acquisition regulations while aligning procurements with the agency’s strategic priorities in operational readiness and innovation. He maintains established working relationships with key contractors including TORCH RESEARCH, LLC, AMD INTERNATIONAL TECHNOLOGIES LLC, ADVANCED TECHNOLOGY INTERNATIONAL, and FIDELITY TECHNOLOGIES CORPORATION, frequently engaging these firms for advanced systems engineering, modeling and simulation, and technical integration services. His procurement approach emphasizes performance-based contracting and outcome-driven requirements, fostering long-term partnerships with vendors possessing proven expertise in defense training technologies and mission-critical R&D. Manzano’s contracting portfolio reflects a strong preference for open competition, with 80% of acquisitions issued without set-asides, while maintaining a consistent 20% commitment to Total Small Business Set-Asides under FAR 19.5. Though not focused on 8(a), HUBZone, or SDVOSB-specific programs, he actively facilitates small business participation through broad-based opportunities that encourage competitive bidding from qualified small entities. His primary procurement focus lies in NAICS 541330 (Engineering Services) and 562211 (Hazardous Waste Treatment and Disposal), reflecting the agency’s dual emphasis on advanced technical systems and environmental compliance in training range operations. He routinely procures engineering design, systems integration, live-fire range modernization, and hazardous material management services, demonstrating deep technical familiarity with defense training infrastructure and sustainability requirements.