Susan Thorpe

Susan Thorpe serves as a Contracting Officer for the Air Force Research Laboratory’s RDK division (FA9451), where she leads the acquisition of advanced research and development services critical to national security and air dominance. She manages complex, high-technical procurements focused on directed energy systems, electro-optics, laser vulnerability research, and advanced instrumentation, ensuring alignment with DoD innovation priorities. Her portfolio centers on R&D contracts that bridge laboratory breakthroughs with operational aerospace capabilities, requiring deep technical understanding and rigorous compliance with FAR and DFARS regulations. Thorpe plays a pivotal role in accelerating the transition of cutting-edge science into field-deployable technologies for the U.S. Air Force. Thorpe collaborates primarily with prime contractors possessing specialized expertise in physical and engineering sciences, including defense aerospace firms, university-affiliated research centers, and non-traditional defense innovators. While no single contractor dominates her portfolio, she consistently engages vendors with proven capabilities in laser system design, optical diagnostics, and high-energy physics instrumentation. Her contracting approach emphasizes performance-based outcomes, technical merit, and innovation, fostering long-term partnerships with firms capable of delivering under tight developmental timelines and stringent security requirements. Thorpe’s procurement patterns reflect a strong preference for open competition, with 93.3% of her awards issued without set-aside restrictions. The remaining 6.7% are awarded under Total Small Business Set-Asides (FAR 19.5), demonstrating a measured but intentional commitment to small business participation. She does not routinely utilize 8(a), HUBZone, or SDVOSB set-asides, instead prioritizing technical capability and mission readiness while ensuring small businesses have equitable access through unrestricted opportunities. Her primary procurement focus is exclusively on NAICS 541712—Research and Development in the Physical, Engineering, and Life Sciences (except Biotechnology). She procures services including laser system prototyping, optical component testing, directed energy modeling, and advanced sensor development, working closely with firms specializing in high-power laser architectures, nonlinear optics, and real-time diagnostics. Her technical domain expertise ensures acquisitions align with RDK’s mission to sustain U.S. leadership in next-generation aerospace technologies.