Engineering Trust for Complex, High-Consequence Environments
Paper Boat Systems designs and sustains AI and digital-engineering solutions that perform under pressure, where reliability, explainability, and security are not optional.
Our Mission
To make artificial intelligence trustworthy, explainable, and actionable for every organization that depends on critical data.
Our Vision
A world where human expertise and intelligent systems work together, securely and transparently, to power innovation, resilience, and national readiness.
Our Philosophy
Human in the Loop AI.
Automation should amplify human judgment, not replace it. Our “Expert-in-the-Middle” framework ensures that every algorithmic recommendation is explainable, auditable, and accountable.
Security by Design.
From unclassified networks to Top Secret domains, our architectures are built for zero-trust environments and verified against NIST 800-171 and CMMC Level 2 standards.
Engineering for Impact.
We do not build prototypes for slide decks, we operationalize technology that supports real-world decisions and infrastructure.
Who We Are
Paper Boat Systems, doing business as Intelligent Payload Solutions (IPS), brings together decades of experience in artificial intelligence, modeling & simulation, and secure cloud infrastructure. Founded by engineers and mission technologists, we operate where data, systems, and people converge, from defense and aerospace to energy, finance, and public safety.
Our Credentials:
- 20 + years of government and commercial project delivery
- Active Top Secret facility clearance
- DCAA-approved accounting system
- NIST 800-171 & CMMC Level 2 readiness
- AWS, Microsoft Azure, and Google Cloud Partners
- SBIR/STTR Prime & Subcontractor Experience (DoD, DHS, Air Force, Army, Space Force)
- TRL-7 validated platforms deployed in operational environments
Chris Franz
Founder & CEO
CAREERS AT PAPER BOAT SYSTEMS
Join a team that bridges data science and digital engineering. We’re scientists, engineers, and builders who believe trust is a feature, not an afterthought.
CONTACT FORM
Whether you are advancing digital engineering, synthetic data, or secure access, our team can design a trusted solution tailored to your environment.
Contracting Information:
- Legal Entity: Paper Boat Systems (DBA of Intelligent Payload Solutions (IPS))
- DUNS: 556502164
- UEI: WW3MMJ2QUNK5
- CAGE Code: 41XF7
- NAICS Codes: 541330 – Engineering Services; 334111 – Electronic Computer Manufacturing; 334290 – Other Communications Equipment Manufacturing; 334413 – Semiconductor and Related Device Manufacturing; 334418– Printed Circuit Assembly (Electronic Assembly) Manufacturing; 334419 – Other Electronic Component Manufacturing; 334511 – Search, Detection, Navigation, Guidance, Aeronautical, and Nautical System Manufacturing; 518210 – Computing Infrastructure Providers, Data Processing, Web Hosting, and Related Services; 541511 – Custom Computer Programming Services; 541512 – Computer Systems Design Services; 541513 – Computer Facilities Management Services; 541715 – R&D in Physical, Engineering, and Life Sciences; 541990 – All Other Professional, Scientific, and Technical Services
- Contract Vehicles: SBIR sole-source authorities and access to vehicles such as EXPRESS, OASIS/OASIS+, SPeC, C5, and TReX II