Richard A Travis

Richard A. Travis serves as a key procurement professional within the U.S. Customs and Border Protection’s Procurement Directorate Contracting Division, where he manages complex acquisitions critical to border security operations. His responsibilities center on securing specialized equipment and services that sustain and enhance the agency’s K9 detection programs, facility security infrastructure, and advanced analytical instrumentation. He routinely handles contracts under FAR Part 13 and Part 15, utilizing competitive and non-competitive methods to acquire mission-critical capabilities that directly support Border Patrol operational readiness. His work ensures the timely delivery of technically sophisticated systems aligned with DHS and CBP strategic priorities. Travis maintains collaborative relationships with a diverse pool of vendors, primarily manufacturers of defense-grade detection systems, analytical instruments, and ordnance-related components. He works closely with both large industrial contractors and certified small businesses to ensure technical compliance, supply chain resilience, and performance accountability. His contracting approach emphasizes rigorous source selection, technical evaluation, and post-award oversight to meet stringent federal standards for reliability and interoperability in high-risk operational environments. His procurement strategy reflects a strong preference for open competition, with 85.3% of awards issued without set-asides, while still actively supporting small business participation through Total Small Business Set-Asides (13.3%) and occasional 8(a) competed awards (1.3%). He consistently prioritizes socioeconomic goals where feasible, ensuring equitable access for qualified small and disadvantaged firms without compromising mission-critical performance requirements. Travis’s primary procurement focus lies in NAICS 332994 (Small Arms and Ordnance Accessories) and 332992 (Small Arms Ammunition), reflecting deep expertise in tactical equipment procurement. He also oversees acquisitions in 334516 (Analytical Laboratory Instrument Manufacturing) and 561612 (Security Guards and Patrol Services), demonstrating proficiency in both hardware and service-based contracts. His technical domain spans detection systems, firearms logistics, and secure operational support services essential to CBP’s frontline missions.