Richard Kern

Richard Kern serves as a Contracting Officer with Network Contract Office 19 (36C259) under the Department of Veterans Affairs, where he manages the acquisition of critical facility infrastructure and nonresidential leasing services essential to sustaining VA medical operations. His portfolio centers on securing long-term real property solutions to support clinical and administrative functions across VA healthcare campuses, ensuring that facility needs align with national standards for safety, accessibility, and operational continuity. Kern handles full lifecycle procurements—from market research and solicitation development to contract award and administration—focusing on lease agreements, building modifications, and utility infrastructure services that underpin the delivery of veteran-centered care. Kern maintains consistent working relationships with a select group of contractors, including MCKENZIE CONSTRUCTION & SITE DEVELOPMENT LLC, L1 ENTERPRISES INCORPORATED, and ALL AMERICAN EXPRESS SOLUTIONS LLC, all of whom specialize in facility maintenance, site development, and infrastructure support services. His contracting approach emphasizes reliability, compliance with federal building codes, and performance-based outcomes, fostering long-term vendor partnerships grounded in accountability and timely delivery. These contractors are frequently engaged for complex, multi-year facility sustainment efforts requiring coordination with VA facilities management and engineering teams. Kern’s procurement activity reflects a 100% non-set-aside pattern, indicating a strategic focus on full and open competition rather than socioeconomic set-asides. While small business participation is not formally prioritized through 8(a), HUBZone, or SDVOSB designations, his awards remain accessible to all qualified vendors under FAR Part 15 procedures, emphasizing technical capability and past performance over socioeconomic status. His primary procurement focus is NAICS 531120—Lessors of Nonresidential Buildings—which governs the acquisition of leased space, facility upgrades, and infrastructure integration services. Kern’s expertise lies in procuring turnkey facility solutions that enable VA medical centers to operate efficiently, including HVAC modernization, electrical system upgrades, and compliance-driven building enhancements critical to delivering high-acuity healthcare services.