Terri L. Tew

Terri L. Tew serves as a Contracting Officer within the U.S. Special Operations Command (USSOCOM), responsible for acquiring mission-critical aviation systems and advanced sensor technologies that enhance the survivability and operational effectiveness of special operations forces. She manages complex procurements under FAR and DFARS guidelines, focusing on highly specialized aerospace and electronic warfare equipment. Her portfolio includes the acquisition of integrated avionics, mission-specific instrumentation, and auxiliary aircraft components essential to SOF platforms, ensuring rapid fielding of cutting-edge capabilities under stringent security and performance requirements. Tew cultivates strategic partnerships with defense prime contractors and niche Tier-1 suppliers specializing in classified and export-controlled technologies. While her contracting activity does not rely on a small number of dominant vendors, she consistently engages with firms possessing ITAR/EAR compliance, AS9100 certification, and proven experience in rapid prototyping for military aviation. Her procurement approach emphasizes technical rigor, supply chain resilience, and seamless integration with existing SOF aircraft architectures, fostering long-term vendor collaboration on iterative capability upgrades. Her set-aside preferences reflect a strong emphasis on open competition, with 93.8% of acquisitions conducted without socioeconomic set-asides. Nevertheless, she actively supports small business participation through Total Small Business Set-Asides (4.6%) and 8(a) competed awards (1.5%), demonstrating a balanced commitment to both mission urgency and socioeconomic objectives under FAR Part 19. Tew’s primary procurement focus lies in NAICS 336413 (Other Aircraft Parts and Auxiliary Equipment Manufacturing), where she acquires mission-specific avionics, wiring harnesses, and cockpit integration systems. She also frequently procures systems under NAICS 334511 (Aeronautical Instrumentation) and 334515 (Electrical Signal Measurement Instruments), reflecting deep expertise in electronic warfare, navigation, and sensor fusion technologies. Her domain knowledge spans ruggedized flight control systems, secure data links, and mission computer interfaces critical to SOF aircraft modernization.