News for the Acquisition Workforce

The Office of Federal Procurement Policy (OFPP) has released a comprehensive blueprint, "Building Our Best: Recruitment and Retention of the Contracting Workforce," along with a supporting fact sheet. This initiative is designed to strengthen the federal contracting workforce and ensure the delivery of high-quality services to the American people. To build a robust pipeline of talent and invest in continuous skills development, OFPP introduces four key focus areas: (1) Acquisition Workforce Advisory Committee: A cross-agency group of thought leaders will guide recruitment and retention efforts, sharing best practices across the acquisition community. (2) Strategic Workforce Planning: In collaboration with Chief Human Capital Officers (CHCOs), agencies will enhance strategic workforce planning and leverage talent teams to streamline hiring across the federal enterprise. (3) Leadership Skills: Leadership training at all levels will be prioritized, recognizing the vital role of leadership in the contracting workforce’s success. (4) Retention Program: Agencies will establish programs focused on the growth and development of contracting professionals, ensuring retention at all levels.

The Made in America Office at the Office of Management and Budget seeks individuals in the 1102 series for a detail to promote domestic manufacturing in federal procurements. Selected candidates will review waivers to domestic content requirements and collaborate with interagency partners to understand when and why agencies source products internationally. This detail offers a chance to expand procurement knowledge and develop expertise in domestic content preferences. If interested, apply here. 

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 have completed CON 1300V and 1400V, you can register for FCN 3930 in FAI CSOD. The next session is Nov. 19, 2024 at 2:00 p.m. ET. If you have questions, please contact: teresa.reefe@fai.gov.

The FAR Council will host an in-person and virtual listening session on Dec. 4, 2024, from 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. ET at the GSA Auditorium in Washington, D.C. The session invites public and industry input on Federal Acquisition Regulation policies, legislative focus areas, acquisition process improvements, and the integration of commercial practices. Register for virtual attendance using the Federal Register link or contact Frederick Landry for more information.

Join the GSA Office of Professional Services and Human Capital Categories OASIS+ Overview Training on Nov. 19, 2024. Register now to earn one CLP! They will cover the new contract program, including its structure, scope, features, ordering process, and how it compares to other GSA contract programs. OASIS+ is designed to meet government agencies' mission needs by integrating a full range of service requirements across multiple disciplines, along with ancillary services and products. For more information about OASIS+, visit the OASIS+ website. 

The U.S. Department of State's Office to Monitor and Combat Trafficking in Persons, partnering with Verité, presents the Responsible Sourcing Tool (RST). The website aims to help prospective bidders and federal contractors establish robust due diligence systems to prevent human trafficking, including forced labor, in supply chains. It offers policies, performance standards, and processes to assess, address, and monitor human trafficking risks. COs and CORs will also find it useful to share the Compliance Plan template to encourage adherence to FAR 52.222-50.