We are Ames Laboratory: Procurement

What is the Department’s name? Procurement. The department used to be known as “Purchasing” but purchasing is a small subset of the broader procurement function. We changed the department name to “Procurement” because the name encompasses in addition to purchasing, subcontracts, P-card program, small business program, and compliance, and focuses on value creation.

What does Procurement do to support Ames Laboratory? We help the Laboratory acquire all the goods and services necessary to accomplish its mission, from office supplies to computer equipment to scientific instrumentation. Our vision is to be a trusted partner within our customer and vendor base and pursue innovative strategies and tactics that enable the laboratory to acquire high quality, cost-effective goods and services in support of Ames Laboratory’s mission, vision and core values.

Why is Procurement important to Ames Laboratory? Procurement ensures that the Laboratory is compliant with terms of our Prime Contract with the Government. Our mission is to acquire a broad range of high-quality, cost-effective products and services that provide the best value in support of customer requirements. Procurement staff are committed to ethical, safe and compliant business practices; seeking out sustainable solutions; and establishing and maintaining a strong, competitive supplier base that reflects the diversity of the small business and socioeconomic supplier community, supporting Ames Laboratory’s Prime Contract with the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE). We buy what you need, when you need it, in a compliant and ethical manner, so that together we can support the Laboratory's overall mission.

What is unique, interesting, or special about Procurement? The Ames Lab Procurement team works closely together like a family. Together, we strive to continuously improve upon acquisition processes to provide a better customer experience. We strive for excellence by being Engaged, Proactive, Innovative, and Creative in arriving at procurement solutions to support your needs, goals, and acquisition strategies. Simply put, we approach procurement in an EPIC way!

Who is in charge around here? Director Karl Duke, who’s been at the helm of Procurement since Dec. 1, 2021. Karl has 35 plus years of government contracting and procurement experience including working at other National Laboratories.

Who else is on the procurement team?