Sterling Lewis Whitehead

Sterling Lewis Whitehead serves as a Contract Specialist within the Strategic Systems Programs (N00030) under the Department of the Navy, where he plays a critical role in managing the acquisition lifecycle for the nation’s sea-based strategic deterrent systems. His responsibilities encompass the full spectrum of contracting activities—from market research and solicitation development to award and contract administration—for complex systems engineering, integration, and technical support services essential to the operational readiness of submarine-launched ballistic missiles and associated command, control, and communications infrastructure. Whitehead specializes in high-stakes, mission-critical procurements requiring stringent compliance with defense acquisition regulations and national security protocols. He maintains established working relationships with prime contractors including Lockheed Martin Corporation, Northrop Grumman Systems Corporation, General Dynamics Mission Systems, Inc., Systems Planning and Analysis, Inc., and JRC Integrated Systems, LLC, consistently engaging these industry leaders for systems integration, advanced engineering, and cybersecurity services. His contracting approach reflects a preference for long-term, performance-based partnerships with firms possessing proven expertise in nuclear deterrent systems, emphasizing technical proficiency, supply chain resilience, and compliance with classified program requirements. Whitehead demonstrates a balanced commitment to socioeconomic objectives, with nearly two-thirds of his acquisitions structured to support small business participation. His portfolio includes equal emphasis on Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned Small Business (SDVOSB) set-asides and Total Small Business Set-Asides under FAR 19.5, alongside targeted 8(a) and Women-Owned Small Business opportunities, reflecting a deliberate strategy to broaden vendor diversity while maintaining mission-critical performance standards. His procurement focus is heavily concentrated in engineering services (NAICS 541330), with significant activity in custom computer programming (541511) and other computer-related services (541519). He routinely acquires technical services supporting weapons systems integration, simulation modeling, systems analysis, and mission-critical software development, underscoring his deep domain expertise in naval strategic systems and defense technology procurement.