Shayla Cooper

Shayla Cooper serves as a key procurement professional within the Virginia Contracting Activity under the Defense Intelligence Agency, supporting mission-critical intelligence operations through the acquisition of specialized technical services. She manages contracts focused on advanced systems design, custom software development, and data exploitation capabilities essential for classified intelligence functions. Her work directly enables real-time analysis, missile systems support, and engineering research initiatives critical to national security. Cooper’s portfolio centers on high-complexity, low-volume acquisitions requiring stringent compliance with classified environment requirements and rigorous technical validation protocols. Her contractor relationships are primarily with small businesses, particularly those certified under the 8(a) Business Development Program, reflecting a strong preference for agile, innovative vendors capable of delivering tailored solutions in fast-paced, secure environments. While specific contractor names are not publicly disclosed, her pattern of engagement emphasizes partnerships with firms possessing expertise in intelligence-grade software engineering, systems integration, and analytical platform development. She fosters collaborative, performance-driven relationships that prioritize technical responsiveness and compliance with DoD cybersecurity and data handling standards. Cooper demonstrates a pronounced commitment to socioeconomic contracting, with 71.4% of her awards directed toward 8(a) competed contracts, underscoring a strategic emphasis on empowering disadvantaged small businesses. This focus aligns with DIA’s mandate to cultivate a resilient, diverse supplier base capable of meeting evolving intelligence demands. Her procurement approach consistently leverages set-aside authorities to increase market access for qualified small businesses while maintaining rigorous performance benchmarks. Her primary procurement activity centers on NAICS 541611 (Administrative Management and General Management Consulting Services) and 541519 (Other Computer Related Services), reflecting a focus on mission support services including systems analysis, technical consulting, and custom IT solutions. She routinely procures services that enhance intelligence data processing, secure software development lifecycles, and engineering support for classified platforms, demonstrating deep domain expertise in defense intelligence technology ecosystems.