Steve F Pappert

Steve F. Pappert serves as a Program Manager within DARPA’s Microsystems Technology Office (MTO), where he leads high-risk, high-reward research initiatives aimed at advancing next-generation microelectronics, photonic systems, and embedded computing architectures. In this role, he is responsible for identifying transformative scientific capabilities, designing technical roadmaps, and managing the full lifecycle of federally funded research and development contracts. His procurement activities center on early-stage innovation, often transitioning foundational research into prototype systems with military applicability. Pappert’s acquisitions are strategically aligned with DARPA’s mission to sustain U.S. technological superiority through breakthroughs in physical and engineering sciences, frequently engaging contractors at the frontier of materials science, quantum-enabled devices, and advanced semiconductor integration. Pappert maintains collaborative relationships with a select group of specialized contractors including Aerospace & Commercial Technologies, LLC, AMD International Technologies LLC, Systems & Technology Research LLC, Abbott Laboratories Inc., and Pennsylvania & Southern Railway LLC. These partnerships reflect a focus on niche technical expertise rather than broad commercial capability, with vendors often possessing deep domain knowledge in microfabrication, analog/digital hybrid systems, or bio-integrated electronics. His contracting patterns favor agile, mission-aligned teams capable of rapid prototyping and technical iteration, with an emphasis on intellectual property flexibility and technical risk tolerance. Pappert’s portfolio exhibits no set-aside preferences, with 100% of awards issued under full and open competition. This reflects DARPA’s institutional priority to source the most technically capable solutions regardless of socioeconomic status, prioritizing performance and innovation over socioeconomic criteria. While small businesses are not excluded, they must compete on technical merit alone, consistent with DARPA’s mission-driven acquisition philosophy. His procurement activity is exclusively classified under NAICS 541712—Research and Development in the Physical, Engineering, and Life Sciences (except Biotechnology)—highlighting his focus on foundational R&D in microsystems, photonics, neuromorphic computing, and advanced materials. He procures specialized services including device design, fabrication, characterization, and system integration, targeting cutting-edge capabilities in heterogeneous integration, low-power electronics, and quantum-enhanced sensing.