Robert Degnan

Robert M. Degnan serves as a Contracting Officer within the Contracting and Procurement office of the Transportation Security Administration under the Department of Homeland Security. He is responsible for managing the acquisition of mission-critical security technologies, including explosive detection systems, irradiation apparatus, and GPS-enabled rail monitoring solutions. His work directly supports the agency’s mandate to enhance aviation and transit security through the procurement of advanced, high-integrity systems. Degnan handles complex, technical acquisitions governed by FAR Part 12 and Part 36, often involving integrated hardware-software solutions requiring rigorous compliance with DHS cybersecurity and supply chain integrity standards. Degnan cultivates strategic relationships with a diverse range of vendors, including specialized manufacturers of detection and navigation systems, engineering firms, and technical consulting providers. He engages with both large prime contractors and small business subcontractors to ensure competitive, innovative solutions meet stringent operational requirements. His contracting approach emphasizes performance-based outcomes, technical evaluation criteria, and risk mitigation through robust contract administration and post-award oversight. His procurement patterns reflect a strong preference for unrestricted competitions, with 87.5% of acquisitions conducted without set-asides. When set-asides are utilized, they are evenly distributed between HUBZone and total small business set-asides under FAR 19.5, demonstrating a measured but intentional commitment to socioeconomic programs without compromising mission readiness. This balanced approach ensures broad market participation while maintaining acquisition agility. Degnan’s primary NAICS focus includes 334511 for search and detection system manufacturing, 541330 for engineering services, and 541611/541690 for management and technical consulting. He routinely procures mission-enabling solutions in aerospace-grade instrumentation, cybersecurity-enabled infrastructure, and operational support services critical to securing national transportation networks. His expertise lies at the intersection of technical procurement, regulatory compliance, and national security imperatives.