Our Team

Eve joined Monterey in 2021 as an Acquisition Support Specialist. She is part of the team that supports acquisition functions for the State of North Carolina, Department of Health and Human Services. Eve earned her Bachelor of Science Degree in Psychology from the United States Air Force Academy in 1993. After serving in the active-duty Air Force for 5 years, she earned her Master’s’ Degree in Business Administration in 2016 with a focus in Project Management.  She holds certifications as a Certified Professional Contract Manager (CPCM), Certified Professional Public Buyer (CPPB), and Certified Public Procurement Officer (CPPO). Eve lives near Buffalo, NY with her husband, Tim, and dog Lincoln, and enjoys spending time with her three grown children, family, and friends. She and her husband are avid members of the Buffalo Bills “Mafia” and can be found at every home game wearing crazy outfits and cheering.

Nick Swearengin joined Monterey in 2026. He is an experienced business analyst focused on improving statewide grant and contract management. He streamlines workflows, strengthens accountability, and implements tools and governance practices that drive efficiency and operational stability.

Previously, he held leadership roles with the U.S. Air Force and interagency defense operations, where he managed training programs, logistics strategies, and international contract negotiations. His work emphasized strategic planning and operational excellence in complex environments.

Nick holds a Master of Science in Management (MSM), a Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA), and is certified as a Department of War Acquisition Professional Level III.

Tyler has over 15 years of strategic sourcing experience combined from the private and public sectors. He has held roles in numerous industries while building and executing procurement strategies for a wide range of categories primarily focused on information technology for medical provider entities. Tyler earned his MBA from The Ohio State University in 2014 with a focus in Finance and Supply Chain Management. In his spare time, he enjoys spending time with his family, particularly coaching his kids’ sports teams. 

Becky joined Monterey in 2023 as an Acquisition Support Specialist II and now serves as the Division Contracts Manager supporting the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services and Division of Social Services (DSS). She is responsible for managing the entire contracting portfolio for DSS and overseeing eight personnel while managing their workloads. She earned her Bachelor of Science in Management from Bellevue University in 2021. She is currently pursuing a Master of Science in Management, specializing in Human Resource Management, and is expected to graduate in 2025. Becky enjoys traveling, playing volleyball, gardening, cooking, and spending time with family and friends.

Anthony retired from the Air Force in 2019 after 20 years of honorable service. He joined Monterey in July of 2021. He is responsible for ensuring all facets of the procurement evaluation process are followed and consistent within the Medicaid Enterprise Solutions (MES) Program for the North Carolina’s Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS). Additionally, he is responsible for reviewing all MES contract amendments for the Office of Procurement, Contracts and Grants within NC DHHS. He earned his Master’s of Business Administration from Columbia Southern University in 2015. He holds certificates from NCMA as a Certified Federal Contract Manager and is certified as DAWIA Level III. Anthony enjoys traveling, watching college football (Hook’Em), and hanging out with his Weimaraner, – Hazel.

Cary Thomas joined Monterey Inc. in 2025 as an Acquisition Support Specialist, bringing more than two decades of leadership and operational expertise to the team. She supports a state health and human services agency with acquisition planning, contract execution, and contract administration.

A retired U.S. Air Force veteran, Cary has a proven track record in managing people, processes, and mission-critical operations. She holds a Bachelor’s degree in Organizational Leadership, a Master’s degree in Human Services Counseling with a focus on leadership, and a Graduate Certificate in Strategic Leadership. Cary is also Six Sigma Yellow Belt–certified and a certified Project Management Professional (PMP).

Thomas joined Monterey in 2023 as an Acquisition Support Specialist II following his retirement from the Air Force after 21 years of faithful service. He is responsible for developing, reviewing, and executing performance-based contracts for the Division of Child and Family Well-Being under the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services. In 2021 he earned his MBA from Purdue University – Global. He has also obtained his Department of Defense Certified Acquisition Professional, Contracting Level III certification. Thomas is an avid Dallas Cowboys and Texas Longhorn fan who also enjoys lifting weights, watching sports, traveling, and spending quality time with family and friends. 

Lisa joined Monterey, Inc. in 2022 as a Budget Analyst, supporting a state government budget unit and a COVID-19 invoice support team, where she provided detailed data analysis for invoice validation and reconciliation. Since 2024, Lisa has served as an Acquisition Support Specialist, assisting a state health and human services division with the development, review, and execution of both purchase of service contracts and grant contracts.

Lisa earned her Bachelor of Science in Accounting from Miami University (Ohio).

Kerry joined Monterey in 2024 as an Acquisition Support Specialist II following a 17-year career in various contracting roles as an Air Force civilian. She is currently part of the team providing contract management and acquisition support to the State of North Carolina, Department of Health and Human Services. Kerry originally hails from Ohio (Go Buckeyes!) where she earned her Bachelor’s in Marketing from Wright State University. Kerry is an active member of the PTA and enjoys vegetarian cooking, traveling, theater, and making memories with her husband and son in Virginia Beach where she currently resides.

Jace Bounds is an accomplished acquisition and data analytics professional with more than a decade of experience supporting commercial, state, and federal initiatives. His career spans pivotal roles with the Department of Veterans Affairs and the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services, where he led procurement efforts, managed large-scale contract development, and advised on acquisition strategy. Jace has overseen the creation of hundreds of RFPs, RFQs, and contracts—including critical COVID-19 procurements—and has served as a central liaison for complex IT and EHR projects. His expertise extends to data visualization, market research, vendor evaluation, and strategic planning.

Jace began his career in technical field operations with Baker Hughes, specializing in downhole data analysis and real-time drilling support. He later transitioned to Monterey Consultants, where he held multiple leadership roles encompassing program analysis, operational support, and business process improvement. Holding a B.S. in Business Administration from the University of Southern Mississippi, Jace is a certified NIGP Procurement Professional, a Lean Six Sigma Executive, and maintains an active Secret clearance. His blend of technical acumen and strategic insight positions him as a trusted expert in acquisition and government contracting.

Cory Brown is an Acquisition Support Specialist at Monterey with more than 15 years of federal contracting experience supporting civilian agencies and the Department of Defense. He brings deep expertise in cradle-to-grave procurement, having led complex service, construction, and contingency acquisitions exceeding $100 million across multiple federal organizations.

At Monterey, Cory provides full-spectrum acquisition support to state health and human services agencies, delivering strategic sourcing, solicitation development, and post-award contract administration. He is known for his ability to quickly adapt to client systems, build trust among stakeholders, and offer practical solutions that keep procurement efforts moving forward.

A veteran of the U.S. Air Force, Cory holds a master’s degree in Emergency Management and Homeland Security from Arizona State University, a bachelor’s degree in Criminal Justice from American Military University, and an associate degree in Contracts Management from the Community College of the Air Force. He also holds FAC-C Professional and DITAP certifications.

Francisco “Frank” Diaz is a senior acquisition professional with nearly two decades of experience supporting procurement, contract management, and strategic sourcing initiatives across federal and state government sectors. At Monterey, Frank serves as an Acquisition Support Specialist delivering procurement and contract lifecycle expertise to public health and human services agencies. His recent work includes leading the Electronic Health Records (EHR) Contracts Team in support of a statewide initiative to modernize healthcare delivery across 13 publicly operated facilities. In this role, Frank oversaw 27 complex contract actions totaling $112 million and helped negotiate agile IT procurements valued at $51 million—efforts that delivered integrated middleware and interface solutions and improved care coordination for more than 300,000 patients annually.

Frank completed a distinguished 20-year career in the United States Air Force, retiring as a Senior Non-Commissioned Officer. During his service, he led multi-disciplinary acquisition teams supporting national defense and intelligence missions. His background spans contract planning, negotiation, source selection, and post-award management across sectors including IT, infrastructure, logistics, and space systems. He holds a Bachelor of Business Administration with a concentration in Acquisitions and Contracts Management and is certified in DAWIA Contracting Levels I & II, as well as the Professional Manager Certification from the Community College of the Air Force.

Suzanne brings nearly three decades of experience in contract and grant management, regulatory compliance, legislative analysis, risk mitigation, and program management across both the public and private sectors. Her career spans critical roles within state health and human services, the judicial branch, and data-driven industries – reflecting her versatility and depth of knowledge in navigating complex systems and regulations.

Currently, Suzanne specializes in procurement and contracting services, drafting clear, results-oriented agreements, scopes of work, and performance measures. She is committed to promoting fiscal accountability and ensuring program integrity at every step. Known for designing and implementing programs from the ground up, Suzanne’s ability to develop efficient workflow procedures and provide clear guidance and training to diverse stakeholders sets her apart as a trusted leader and collaborator.

Abbey joined Monterey, Inc. in 2016 as part of the Medical Records Department. In 2021, she transitioned into a Budget Analyst role on the COVID Support Team supporting state health and human services. By 2023, she moved into her current position as an Acquisition Specialist, where she supports the Division of Social Services in preparing and executing contracts related to child welfare and training initiatives.

Abbey holds an Associate of Science in Medical Assisting from Hocking Technical College (2015) and a Bachelor of Science in Healthcare Management (2019). She earned her Certified Associate in Project Management (CAPM) certification in 2023 and began preparing for the NIGP Certified Procurement Professional (CPP) certification in 2025 to further strengthen her expertise in procurement and vendor management.

With over 10 years at Monterey, Inc., Missi has supported health and human services initiatives across grants, contracts, and market research. Her work has helped shape strategic acquisitions and facilitated more than $1 billion in grant funding for the state. She has overseen the review of $662 million in grant sub-awards, conducting in-depth compliance reviews and driving process improvements to ensure operational efficiency and accountability.

Prior to her current role, Missi served as a Program Analyst, applying strong analytical skills to government contracts for the U.S. Air Force, the Department of Veterans Affairs, and private-sector partners. Her responsibilities included analyzing market trends and economic dynamics, developing data-driven reports to support informed decision-making, and participating in vendor evaluations, as well as the development of RFPs and RFQs – including high-impact contracts supporting pandemic response efforts.

During the COVID-19 restructuring period, Missi stepped into a team lead role, training and guiding staff through a fast-paced, high-pressure contracting environment. Whether managing complex contracts, producing clear and actionable reports, or building strong vendor relationships, she remains focused on creating smooth, efficient, and compliant processes.

Amber joined Monterey, Inc. in 2023 as an Acquisition Support Specialist II following her retirement from the Air Force after 21 years of dedicated service. She is responsible for developing, reviewing, and executing performance-based financial assistance grants and purchase of service contracts in accordance with state, federal, departmental, and divisional regulations, policies, and mandates supporting state health and human services programs.

In 2019, Amber earned a Master’s degree in Acquisition Management from American Graduate University and achieved her Department of Defense Certified Acquisition Professional (Contracting Level III) certification.

Ginger joined Monterey Consultants in 2016 and is responsible for managing all business development, capture, proposal, and marketing operations. She assists in contract management and Monterey’s cooperate accounts such as SAM, GSA, and various state agencies. She graduated in 2016 with a bachelor’s in Creative and Professional writing from Miami University. In 2019 she received her MBA from Western Governor’s University. When not at work she enjoys reading, playing chess, mixology, and spending time with her husband and their two dogs.

Laura joined Monterey in 2023 as an Acquisition Support Specialist. She is currently providing acquisition support to the Franklin County Purchasing Department in Columbus, Ohio. Laura graduated from American Graduate University in 2019 with a Master of Acquisition Management. Laura enjoys traveling, reading, and spending time with family.

Tia Littleton joined Monterey, Inc. in 2025 as an Acquisition Support Specialist. She plays a key role in managing an acquisition portfolio valued at $15.8 million. With a strong focus on procurement planning, contract administration, and compliance, Tia supports mission-driven initiatives within the Department of Health and Human Services—particularly those impacting vulnerable children and families.

Tia brings a detail-oriented and collaborative approach to acquisition lifecycle management, helping ensure programs receive the resources they need to succeed. She is dedicated to supporting human services programs through strategic procurement practices that align with federal, state, and agency-level requirements.

Mike Lovano is an accomplished Acquisition Support Specialist delivering procurement and contract lifecycle expertise to public health and human services agencies. He brings over 22 years of experience in federal and state contracting, including a 20-year career in the United States Air Force, where he retired as a Master Sergeant. At Monterey, Mike supports procurement operations across multiple divisions within a state’s health and human services agency, overseeing a portfolio exceeding $160 million. He provides acquisition planning, vendor performance tracking, final contract reviews, and policy alignment to ensure effective, compliant awards. As a Training Coordinator, he also leads onboarding and procedural training for new acquisition staff, contributing to improved continuity and operational readiness across teams.

Before joining Monterey, Mike served as a senior contracting instructor for the Air Force Institute of Technology, where he trained more than 1,100 acquisition professionals and developed foundational curriculum for the Mission Ready Contracting Officer course. His earlier roles included contract management for foreign military sales, large-scale infrastructure projects, and enterprise sourcing initiatives, demonstrating his ability to lead in both high-visibility and mission-critical environments.

Mike holds a Master of Arts in Procurement and Acquisitions Management from Webster University and a Bachelor of Science in Business Management from Hampton University. His professional credentials include DAWIA Level III Certification in Contracting, a Level III Instructor Certification from the Community College of the Air Force, and the Air Force’s Professional Management Certification. He is also certified in both the Myers-Briggs Type Indicator (MBTI) and FIRO interpersonal relations framework.

David Lukas joined Monterey, Inc. in 2024 as an Acquisition Support Specialist, providing acquisition support and contract management services to a state health and human services agency. He retired from the Air Force in 2021 after more than 22 years of distinguished service and subsequently worked for the Department of the Air Force for three years as a Contracting Officer with an unlimited warrant.

With more than a decade of experience in federal acquisitions, David has held key leadership positions across multiple organizations, leading dynamic teams and managing large, complex, high-value acquisition portfolios.

David holds an MBA and a Master’s degree in Organizational Leadership from Trident University, as well as an Associate of Science degree in Contract Management from the Community College of the Air Force.

Josh joined Monterey in 2025 as an Acquisition Support Specialist, providing acquisition support and contract management services to the State Department of Health and Human Services. He retired from the Air Force in 2025 following a distinguished career as a senior contracting professional, bringing more than a decade of experience in federal and commercial acquisition. Throughout his military career, Josh held key leadership positions, leading large teams and managing complex, high-value contract portfolios.

Josh is a Department of Defense Certified Acquisition Professional, a Certified Federal Contract Manager, and holds a Bachelor’s degree in Business as well as a Master of Science in Acquisition Management.

Joe Megeryis a seasoned acquisition professional with over two decades of federal contracting experience, including both operational and systems procurement. As a Subject Matter Expert at Monterey, he serves as a strategic advisor supporting a federal health agency’s enterprise IT and data governance initiatives. In this role, he facilitates acquisition planning, evaluation readiness, and enterprise architecture development for complex, high-impact programs that integrate modern and legacy systems to ensure seamless data interoperability.

Prior to joining Monterey, Joe led instruction and curriculum development for federal acquisition professionals at the Defense Acquisition University and the Air Force Institute of Technology, shaping the next generation of contracting leaders. His federal tenure also includes roles as a warranted contracting officer and contract manager for major defense programs, contingency operations, and international missions. He holds a Level III Contracting certification and is a Certified Federal Contracts Manager.

Natalie joined Monterey in 2021 as an Acquisition Support Specialist after eight years of working in contracting for the U.S. Air Force. She is responsible for providing North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services with COVID-19 procurement-related services. She has extensive experience in cradle-to-grave commercial acquisitions to include single source requirements, services, and commodities. Natalie earned her Master of Business Administration with emphasis in Management from West Texas A&M University in 2019. She and her husband have a son and two cats. In her free time, she enjoys running, Pilates, dirt biking, fishing, and snowboarding. 

Robert Powell joined Monterey in 2025 as a Senior Acquisition Strategist, supporting the Defense Health Agency (DHA) through acquisition strategy development and lifecycle acquisition support for MHS GENESIS contract actions. He brings more than 30 years of experience in federal acquisition, procurement, and contract management across complex, high-value defense and healthcare portfolios.

Prior to joining Monterey, Robert retired from the United States Air Force following a distinguished career as a senior acquisition professional and leader and later served in the private sector at USAA, supporting large-scale information technology transitions from on-premises environments to cloud-based solutions. Throughout his career, he has held senior leadership roles, led multidisciplinary teams, and executed innovative acquisition strategies in support of mission-critical programs. Robert is a Department of War Certified Acquisition Professional, holds certifications in Program Management and Purchasing, is a John Maxwell Team Certified Leadership Coach, and has completed graduate-level coursework toward a Master of Business Administration, in addition to earning a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration.

Maureen joined Monterey in 2022 as Acquisition Support Specialist following over ten years of service as a Purchasing Agent for Niagara County, NY where she was responsible for procurement activity for all County departments from the planning stage through final payment. She is part of the team that supports acquisition functions for the State of North Carolina, Department of Health and Human Services. Maureen graduated from Niagara University in 1995 with a bachelor’s degree in Travel and Tourism Management. In addition to caring for her family of eight and two Golden Retrievers, Maureen is an avid gardener who focuses on building the native plant population in the area. 

Ryan M. Smith is a results-oriented leader with 10 years of experience in contracting, procurement, and grants management. At the core of his professional philosophy is a strong commitment to helping people by solving complex problems—a principle that has guided his career from leading Airmen in the U.S. Air Force to supporting state officials in navigating complex regulatory environments.

A disabled U.S. Air Force veteran, Ryan has a proven track record of leading teams through demanding operational challenges. His leadership philosophy emphasizes presence, engagement, and collaboration. While leading a six-person team managing a $14 million portfolio, he successfully navigated a significant staffing shortage by working alongside his team to resolve daily challenges while fostering camaraderie through team-building efforts. This hands-on, supportive leadership approach sustained productivity and morale and resulted in multiple team awards.

Ryan also demonstrated a strong process-improvement mindset when he led an initiative at Al Dhafra Air Base to modernize acquisition tracking. By developing an automated routing function within SharePoint, he provided mission partners with 24/7 visibility into contract status and significantly expedited approval timelines.

Transitioning to the civilian sector, Ryan currently serves as an Acquisition Support Specialist with Monterey, Inc., supporting the state of North Carolina. In this role, he guides 13 divisions through complex procurement and grant processes within a department managing an $18.3 billion annual budget. His attention to compliance and process improvement led to the identification and correction of more than 1,000 critical discrepancies in grantee sub-awards totaling $662 million, directly strengthening oversight and service delivery for North Carolinians. Ryan is committed to continuous professional development and is on track to complete both his Project Management Professional (PMP) certification and a Master of Business Administration from American Military University within the next year. He looks forward to leveraging these credentials to continue growing and contributing in increasingly complex roles.

Stephen joined Monterey in 2023 as an Acquisition Support Specialist II. He is responsible for assisting the Department of Social Services Child Welfare Section with procurement and contracting support services to include acquisition planning assistance, document development, supporting proposal evaluations, assistance reviewing contractor performance evaluations and modifications, and contract close-out. He earned his Bachelor of Business Administration with a concentration in Small Business Administration from American Military University in 2022. In 2023 he received his “Certified Professional Contract Manager” certification from the National Contract Management Association. Stephen enjoys watching football, grilling out, hunting/fishing, and spending time with family and friends.