Xavier L. Rice

Xavier L. Rice serves as a Contract Specialist with FA4417 1 Socons under the Department of the Air Force, where he plays a pivotal role in acquiring mission-critical communications, defense, and infrastructure systems that sustain and modernize airpower capabilities. His portfolio centers on secure radio and wireless communications equipment, aeronautical navigation systems, and integrated base defense technologies, ensuring operational resilience through technically complex, high-stakes procurements. Rice manages the full lifecycle of contract actions—from solicitation and evaluation to award and administration—aligning acquisitions with Air Force strategic priorities and federal acquisition regulations. He maintains consistent working relationships with a select group of contractors including AANTILIA LLC, MARRERO, COUVILLON & ASSOCIATES, L.L.C., MATTHES PARKER LLC, L1 ENTERPRISES INCORPORATED, and WALCO ENTERPRISES INC., who provide specialized engineering, technical support, and systems integration services. These partnerships reflect a preference for vendors with proven expertise in defense-grade communications hardware, facility infrastructure, and mission-enabling equipment, often requiring compliance with stringent military specifications and cybersecurity standards. Rice demonstrates a strong commitment to socioeconomic contracting, with over half of his awards structured as Total Small Business Set-Asides under FAR 19.5, complemented by a significant portion allocated to HUBZone concerns. His procurement patterns prioritize small business participation, fostering competition and innovation among disadvantaged and geographically targeted firms while maintaining rigorous performance standards. His primary technical focus lies in NAICS 334290 (Other Communications Equipment Manufacturing) and 238220 (Plumbing, Heating, and Air-Conditioning Contractors), reflecting a dual emphasis on advanced defense electronics and facility systems that support operational readiness. He also regularly procures specialized equipment under NAICS codes for engine systems, air compressors, and metal fabrication, demonstrating broad technical fluency across mission-critical domains essential to Air Force infrastructure and communications resilience.