Susan Barker

Susan Barker serves as a Contract Specialist responsible for managing the full lifecycle of federal acquisitions, from requirements definition through contract award and administration. She plays a critical role in ensuring compliance with the Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR) and supports the agency’s mission by delivering mission-critical technology and engineering services. Her portfolio primarily encompasses complex procurements in information technology, analytical instrumentation, and hardware systems, with a focus on soliciting solutions that meet rigorous technical and operational standards. Barker works closely with program managers and technical evaluators to develop clear statements of work, evaluate proposals, and negotiate contract terms that balance risk, performance, and cost-effectiveness. While specific contractor names are not available, her contracting patterns indicate consistent engagement with a diverse pool of vendors, including both large primes and small businesses, particularly in the IT services and advanced manufacturing sectors. She fosters collaborative relationships with contractors who demonstrate technical proficiency, past performance, and compliance with federal contracting requirements. Her approach emphasizes transparency, fair competition, and adherence to acquisition best practices, ensuring that contracts are awarded based on merit and regulatory compliance. Barker demonstrates a strong commitment to socioeconomic contracting, with 40% of her awards structured as Total Small Business Set-Asides under FAR 19.5. This reflects a deliberate strategy to increase opportunities for small businesses, prioritizing competition among firms certified under the Small Business Administration’s programs. While no other set-aside categories are prominent in her portfolio, her consistent use of small business set-asides underscores a dedication to fostering market diversity and enhancing competition. Her primary procurement focus lies in NAICS 541519 (Other Computer Related Services), followed by analytical laboratory instrument manufacturing (334516) and hardware manufacturing (332510). She regularly acquires custom software development, data processing infrastructure, and specialized electronic equipment, indicating deep expertise in technology-enabled mission support systems and scientific instrumentation procurement.