Richard Kelly

SrA Richard Kelly supports the 355th Contracting Squadron within the Department of the Air Force, playing a vital role in enabling airpower readiness through the acquisition of mission-critical aerospace systems and support services. He manages the procurement lifecycle for specialized aircraft components, avionics, auxiliary equipment, and facility maintenance contracts that sustain operational capabilities at key Air Force installations. His work directly contributes to the squadron’s mission of ensuring continuous operational tempo by securing timely, compliant, and technically sound contracts that align with Air Force readiness priorities. Kelly maintains established working relationships with a core group of contractors including MILLER ELECTRIC COMPANY INC., ATLANTIC PACIFIC STANDARD LLC, DAP CONSTRUCTION MANAGEMENT LLC, BSE PERFORMANCE, LLC, and LAVISH LIFE TECHNOLOGIES LLC. These partnerships reflect a balanced approach to sourcing—engaging both established industrial suppliers and niche service providers with proven technical expertise in aircraft maintenance, construction management, and specialized equipment fabrication. His contracting approach emphasizes reliability, performance history, and regulatory compliance, fostering long-term vendor collaboration while maintaining rigorous oversight. His procurement portfolio demonstrates a strong preference for open competition, with approximately 62% of awards issued without set-aside restrictions. However, he consistently prioritizes small business participation, with over one-third of contracts awarded under Total Small Business Set-Asides (FAR 19.5) and a notable emphasis on Women-Owned Small Businesses. This reflects a deliberate strategy to broaden the supplier base and enhance competition while meeting statutory socioeconomic objectives. Kelly’s primary procurement focus centers on NAICS 336413 (Other Aircraft Parts and Auxiliary Equipment Manufacturing), followed by commercial and industrial machinery repair (811310) and specialized instruction services (611699). He routinely procures aircraft subsystems, maintenance support tools, and technical training solutions, demonstrating deep familiarity with aerospace logistics, avionics integration, and maintenance supply chain dynamics. His expertise ensures acquisitions align with technical specifications critical to sustaining combat-coded and training aircraft fleets.