KARYN BARKER

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Karyn Barker

KARYN BARKER

Strategic Operations & Program Management Executive

"I specialize in bridging the gap between strategic vision and ground-level execution in the commercial space and defense sectors. As a third-generation aerospace professional and licensed general contractor, I build the PMO frameworks and operational strategies that allow organizations to scale their infrastructure and navigate complex federal compliance."

Executive Summary

As a third-generation space industry professional, my career has been defined by a singular focus: building the operational frameworks and infrastructure that allow commercial space and defense organizations to scale safely and efficiently.

I am a strategic business partner and Program Management Executive who bridges the gap between C-suite vision and tactical execution. Holding both a PMP and a Florida Certified General Contractor (CGC) license, I bring a rare combination of deep construction management authority, federal contracting expertise (FAR/DFARS/CMMC), and crisis leadership to high-stakes environments.

Whether stepping in to stabilize critical aerospace infrastructure contracts at Cape Canaveral, architecting enterprise-wide Project Management Offices (PMOs) from the ground up, or leading strategic turnarounds that win back multi-million-dollar federal accounts, my approach is rooted in critical thinking, creative problem solving, and absolute integrity.

I don't just manage projects; I build the scalable systems, KPIs, and compliance frameworks that protect the bottom line and drive sustainable growth. Currently pursuing an Executive MBA in Commercial Space and advanced certifications in AI Project Management, I am committed to integrating forward-looking technology with proven operational excellence.

Core Competencies & Expertise

PMO Architecture & Strategy

  • Enterprise PMO Development
  • Full Lifecycle Program Oversight
  • Standardized SOPs & Estimating Tools
  • KPI Monitoring & Variance Analysis

Federal Compliance & Risk

  • FAR / DFARS Navigation
  • CMMC / NIST 800-171 Compliance
  • Government Contracting Workflows
  • Crisis Management & Mitigation

Aerospace Facilities & Federal Contracts

  • Launch Pad & Facilities Management
  • Florida Certified General Contractor (CGC)
  • Multi-Trade Team Leadership
  • IFM Contract Continuity at KSC/CCSFB

Strategic Impact & Case Studies

The Infrastructure Turnaround

Interim Operations Manager | Space Florida IFM Contract
Challenge:
A critical infrastructure management contract at Cape Canaveral (Launch Pad 46, Shuttle Runway) was failing, jeopardizing client trust and future revenue.
Action:
Appointed by the President to step in and stabilize operations. Restructured the team, implemented rigorous compliance tracking, and established transparent communication channels with stakeholders.
Result:
Stabilized failing operations, restored full client trust, and secured the multi-million-dollar account for the organization.

Enterprise PMO Development

Program Manager | Company A
Challenge:
The organization lacked standardized project management processes, leading to inconsistent estimating, proposal generation, and execution in the federal space sector.
Action:
Architected and built the organization's first comprehensive Project Management Office (PMO) from the ground up. Developed standardized estimating tools, SOPs, and proposal frameworks.
Result:
Created scalable systems that significantly increased federal win rates and improved overall operational performance and consistency.

Commercial Expansion & Certification

Project & Construction Manager | Company B
Challenge:
The company needed to expand its commercial footprint and secure necessary certifications to bid on diverse projects, including GOAA runway infrastructure.
Action:
Led commercial design/build initiatives, championed the adoption of Procore for enterprise project management, and navigated the complex certification processes.
Result:
Successfully managed projects ranging from $100K to $2.5M and secured critical WBE and DBE certifications, unlocking new revenue streams.