Traci A. Patton

Traci A. Patton supports the procurement mission of NASA Glenn Research Center by managing complex acquisitions in advanced aerospace technologies, with a focus on research and development in physical and engineering sciences. She oversees contracts for next-generation propulsion systems, high-efficiency thermal and fluid systems, and precision aerospace instrumentation, ensuring alignment with NASA’s strategic goals in fission surface power and extreme-environment materials. Her work bridges technical innovation and federal acquisition compliance, enabling mission-critical R&D across aeronautics and space exploration programs. Patton maintains strong, recurring partnerships with specialized contractors including Troy Sierra JV LLC, Aerospace & Commercial Technologies, LLC, and Electronic Fluorocarbons, LLC, all of which provide niche engineering, testing, and materials solutions critical to Glenn’s experimental systems. These vendor relationships are characterized by deep technical collaboration, long-term contract performance, and consistent delivery of high-integrity components for extreme-condition testing environments. Her procurement approach prioritizes technical capability and proven performance over volume, fostering stable, mission-aligned vendor ecosystems. Her contracting patterns reflect a robust commitment to small business participation, with approximately two-thirds of her awards set aside for small businesses under FAR 19.5. This demonstrates a deliberate strategy to cultivate innovation from emerging aerospace and engineering firms, aligning with NASA’s broader socioeconomic goals. While no set-aside preferences for 8(a), HUBZone, or SDVOSB are dominant, her consistent use of total small business set-asides signals a proactive effort to expand the supplier base and enhance competition among qualified small entities. Patton’s primary NAICS focus is 541715, reflecting her leadership in procuring advanced R&D services for propulsion, power, and thermal systems. She also frequently sources specialized instrumentation under 334515 for electrical and signal measurement, and occasionally engages convention and trade show organizers under 561920 to support technical outreach and collaboration events. Her expertise lies at the intersection of cutting-edge aerospace engineering and compliant federal procurement, ensuring that NASA Glenn maintains its leadership in next-generation space technologies.