Tom Cardin

Tom Cardin serves as a key procurement lead within the Missile Defense Agency, overseeing the acquisition of mission-critical systems and support services essential to the nation’s layered ballistic missile defense architecture. He manages a diverse portfolio of contracts spanning infrastructure modernization, sensor integration, and fielded system sustainment, ensuring alignment with MDA’s strategic priorities in midcourse and terminal-phase interception technologies. His role is central to translating technical requirements into executable contracts that accelerate capability deployment while maintaining rigorous performance and security standards across the defense lifecycle. Cardin maintains consistent contracting relationships with prime defense contractors including Lockheed Martin Corp and Northrop Grumman Systems Corporation, partnering with them on complex, systems-integrated procurements involving radar modernization, kinetic interceptors, and command-and-control platforms. He also collaborates with Jacobs Technology Inc. for mission-critical facilities and operational support services. His procurement approach emphasizes long-term vendor partnerships grounded in technical proficiency, past performance, and compliance with defense acquisition regulations, fostering reliable delivery of high-stakes capabilities under tight operational timelines. Cardin demonstrates a strong commitment to socioeconomic contracting, with approximately 80% of his acquisitions structured as total small business set-asides under FAR 19.5, and 20% designated as HUBZone set-asides. This pattern reflects a deliberate strategy to broaden industry participation, enhance innovation through small business agility, and meet federal mandates for equitable contract distribution. His awards consistently prioritize qualified small businesses capable of delivering specialized technical services within the missile defense ecosystem. His primary procurement focus lies in NAICS 238210 for electrical and wiring infrastructure supporting missile defense sites, NAICS 333415 for environmental control systems in secure facilities, NAICS 339950 for signage and safety marking systems, and NAICS 561210 for facilities support services. These categories underscore his expertise in procuring mission-enabling physical infrastructure and operational support systems that underpin the readiness and resilience of missile defense installations nationwide.