The Defense Acquisition Workforce Improvement Act (DAWIA) establishes several main career fields within the Department of Defense (DoD) acquisition workforce. These career fields represent distinct functional areas and disciplines involved in the acquisition and management of goods and services for the military. The main DAWIA career fields include:

1. Program Management (PM): The Program Management career field focuses on overseeing and managing the planning, execution, and delivery of defense acquisition programs. Program managers are responsible for ensuring that programs meet cost, schedule, and performance objectives. They coordinate the efforts of various stakeholders, manage risks, and make critical decisions throughout the acquisition lifecycle.

2. Contracting (CON): The Contracting career field involves the acquisition of goods, services, and construction projects through contracts. Contracting professionals handle the full lifecycle of contracts, including requirements development, solicitation, negotiation, and contract administration. They ensure compliance with regulations, evaluate proposals, negotiate terms and conditions, and manage contractor performance.

3. Systems Planning, Research, Development, and Engineering (SPRDE): The SPRDE career field focuses on the development and engineering of complex defense systems. Professionals in this field work on designing, developing, and testing advanced technologies, weapons systems, and equipment. They are involved in systems engineering, technology development, risk management, and ensuring systems meet performance requirements.

4. Test and Evaluation (T&E): The Test and Evaluation career field is responsible for assessing and validating the performance, effectiveness, and safety of defense systems. T&E professionals design and conduct tests, analyze data, and provide insights to inform acquisition decisions. They assess system capabilities, identify issues, and recommend improvements to ensure systems meet operational requirements.

5. Life Cycle Logistics (LCL): The Life Cycle Logistics career field focuses on the management and sustainment of defense systems throughout their lifecycle. Professionals in this field ensure the availability, reliability, and supportability of systems. They handle logistics planning, supply chain management, maintenance, and disposal of equipment to ensure operational readiness and cost-effectiveness.

6. Business, Cost Estimating, and Financial Management (BCEFM): The BCEFM career field involves financial management, cost estimating, and business operations within defense acquisition. Professionals in this field analyze costs, develop budgets, perform financial audits, and manage financial systems and processes. They ensure financial accountability, assess program affordability, and provide financial expertise to support acquisition decision-making.

7. Information Technology (IT): The Information Technology career field focuses on the management and acquisition of IT systems and services. IT professionals handle the design, development, implementation, and maintenance of IT infrastructure and applications. They ensure the security, interoperability, and effectiveness of IT systems in supporting defense acquisition processes.

These career fields within the DAWIA framework help define the specific roles and responsibilities within the defense acquisition workforce. Each field has its own set of core competencies, education, training, and certification requirements, enabling professionals to specialize and advance in their respective disciplines. The DAWIA career fields ensure that individuals possess the necessary expertise to effectively contribute to the acquisition and management of defense capabilities.