News for the Acquisition Workforce

In today's fast-paced technological landscape, FAI and the Office of Federal Procurement Policy are committed to ensuring that acquisition professionals stay ahead of the curve. Thanks to our partnership with DAU, we now have access to Coursera, allowing these seven new credentials to include courses specifically designed to close skill gaps in critical areas like software acquisition, data analytics, digital engineering, and artificial intelligence. With these credentials, federal employees will be well-prepared to tackle modern challenges with confidence and expertise.

Available new DAU credentials include:

• CACQ 011: Foundational Software Acquisition Management
• CCON 016: Excel Skills for Data Analytics and Visualization
• CCON 018: Excel Skills for Business
• CCON 024: Operational Contracting
• CENG 001: Digital Engineering for DoD Consumers
• CENG 002A: Data Analytics for DoD Acquisition Managers
• CENG 003: AI Foundations for the DoD

Enroll today through FAI CSOD. Simply search for the course you're interested in and register!

FAI restructured and updated FAC 046, the comprehensive course on Construction Wage Rate Requirements
Statute and Other Labor Standards for Contracts Involving Construction, to reflect the latest changes to the Federal Acquisition Regulation. We divided the course into five standalone micro-learning classes, making it easier to access up-to-date information. These classes are ideal for contracting officers and specialists, whether you're new to the topics or refreshing your knowledge.

Here’s a quick overview of the new offerings:

FAC 130 - Construction Labor Standards and Related Acts (0.5 CLP):
Get a broad understanding of the labor requirements for construction contracts, along with other related labor acts that may apply.

FAC 131 - Wage Rate Requirements for Construction (0.5 CLP):
Learn the ins and outs of WRRC, including when they apply and the roles of the contracting officer, contractor, and Department of Labor in enforcing these requirements.

FAC 132 - Construction Wage Determination (1 CLP):
Delve into construction wage determinations—both general and project-specific—and learn how to select and incorporate them into your construction contracts.

FAC 133 - Construction Payroll Documentation (1 CLP):
Master the nuances of prevailing wages, including hourly rates and fringe benefits, and understand the contractor’s obligations to submit weekly certified payrolls. A hands-on exercise will solidify your learning.

FAC 134 - Construction Labor Compliance Checks and Enforcement (0.5 CLP):
Explore the responsibilities of the contracting officer and Department of Labor in labor compliance reviews and enforcement actions, including common violations and the appeals process.

To drive sustainable growth, George Mason University's Small Business Summit focuses on strategic acquisition, fostering innovation, adhering to procurement thresholds, and effectively managing capital. Join an open discussion with Doug Bush, Assistant Secretary of the Army (Acquisition, Logistics, Technology) and Corey Nickens (GSA Federal Acquisition Service) at the GMU-SECAF Small Business Summit 2024. Business, government, and academic panelists will delve deeper into these critical topics. Let’s explore the opportunities together on Tuesday, Sept. 10, from 8:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. ET.

The Next Generation Acquisition Leadership Playlist equips acquisition professionals with essential skills for success. Each course focuses on strategic thinking, leadership, and innovation, ensuring a well-rounded learning experience. Whether you're a contracting officer or part of the broader acquisition workforce, these courses will enhance your capabilities and drive successful federal acquisitions. Stay updated as this playlist evolves.

The Foreign Acquisitions/Buy American Playlist provides critical insights into the Buy American Act, helping you navigate its complexities to ensure compliance in federal contracting. Key courses cover trade agreements and construction-specific guidelines.

The ITAWG C-SCRM in Acquisition Credential Playlist strengthens your expertise in Cyber Supply Chain Risk Management. Explore zero trust principles, regulatory frameworks, and case studies to secure federal supply chains against cyber risks.

Don't miss out—sign up now!

CON 1200V - Contract Pre-Award: Oct. 23–Nov. 1

ACQ 3700V - Acquisition Law: Oct. 28–Nov. 1

FLD 246 - Managing Contracting Organization: Oct. 28–Nov. 1

FLD 210 - Data Driven Decision Making: Nov. 4–5

ACQ 3700V - Acquisition Law: Nov. 4–8

FCR 201 - Contracting Officer's Representative Level 2: Nov. 4–8

FPM 121 - Acquisition Fundamentals of Project and Program Management II: Nov. 4–8

FCN 400 - Emergency Contracting Basics (two-day): Nov. 6–7

ACQ 265 - Mission-Focused Services Acquisition: Nov. 12–15

CON 1100V - Contract Foundational Skills: Nov. 12–21

Prepare with the FCN 3930 Contracting Exam Study Challenge—a live, interactive study session from the Federal Acquisition Institute. Held monthly on the third Tuesday at 2:00 p.m. ET, this session offers expert insights, engaging gameplay, and a chance to tackle challenging questions. Register through FAI CSOD, join the competition, and earn one CLP while sharpening your contracting knowledge. If you are eligible to take the exam, you can register for FCN 3930 in FAI CSOD. The next session is Sept. 17, 2024, at 2:00 p.m. ET. If you have questions, please contact: teresa.reefe@fai.gov. 

Successful completion of the Digital IT Acquisition Professional (DITAP) training program earns students a DITAP training certificate, 80 CLPs, and the ability to apply for the Digital Services Credential (DITAP) (formerly FAC-C-DS) through FAI's credential program. FAC-C (Professional) holders with at least two years of experience and assigned to acquisitions consisting primarily of digital services over FAR 13.500(c) thresholds are required to attend the DITAP training program. FAC-COR Level II/III and FAC-P/PM Level II/III holders with at least two years of experience and assigned to acquisitions consisting primarily of digital services over FAR 13.500(c) thresholds are encouraged to attend DITAP training to create a cohesive team that fully understands how to buy digital services. There are several vendors who provide the training: CivicActions, Graduate School USA, Skylight, Management Concepts, EAGLES, and ICF. Learn more about DITAP by visiting the TechFAR Hub.

The GSA AI Community of Practice offers comprehensive AI training to equip federal employees with essential skills in AI technology. This program includes foundational courses, hands-on workshops, and advanced learning paths tailored to all experience levels. Whether you're just starting or looking to deepen your expertise, the training is designed to enhance your ability to implement AI solutions effectively in your agency. Join the growing community of AI practitioners and stay ahead in the ever-evolving landscape of government technology. Explore the full training offerings here.

Federal Acquisition Circular (FAC) 2024-07 was published in the Federal Register on Aug. 29, 2024.

The list of documents included in this FAC are as follows:

• Introduction; 
• FAR Case 2023-005, Reference to Penalty Threshold, Final Rule, Effective: Sept. 30, 2024;
• Technical Amendment, Final Rule, Effective: Sept. 30, 2024;  
• Small Entity Compliance Guide (SECG).

To view and download the latest version of the FAR, please visit https://www.acquisition.gov/browse/index/far.

It's that time of year again—the end of the fiscal year! Check out the entertaining and catchy music video by Todd Paynter from the U.S. Department of State. Don’t miss this fun and engaging take on navigating the fiscal year-end! Listen to "It's The End of The Fiscal Year Again!"