News for the Acquisition Workforce

​The 2024 Acquisition Excellence Awards celebrate outstanding federal acquisition professionals who have significantly enhanced procurement practices. The 2024 winners include: ​

David Capone, Acquisitions Program Manager at HQ USAFE-AFAFRICA/A8I, recognized for innovative strategies that expedited radar system modernization.​

Mohammed Huda and Team, from the VA Greater Los Angeles Healthcare System, honored for addressing veteran homelessness through the Care, Treatment, and Rehabilitative Services Program.​

Dana King, Chief of Contract Operations at DFAS, acknowledged for ensuring a seamless transition in the Overseas Military Banking Program, resulting in substantial cost savings.​

Derek Beavers, Director of Acquisitions at USDA's Farm Production and Conservation Business Center, lauded for initiatives that significantly increased small business engagement.​

HHS and DOI OSDBU Teams, led by Shannon Jackson and Colleen Finnegan respectively, commended for surpassing procurement goals with Native American firms.​

For detailed information on each award and the accomplishments of the recipients, please visit the 2024 Acquisition Excellence Awards page on FAI.gov. 

FAI is excited to announce the launch of two new virtual instructor-led courses designed to strengthen small business professionals' knowledge and enhance their ability to support acquisition teams.

SBP 2020V – Intermediate Small Business Programs, Part B

This course builds on Part A with hands-on, practical learning to help small business professionals refine their skills. Participants will engage in interactive exercises to:

• Develop a justified acquisition strategy
• Contribute to solicitation documents and evaluation criteria
• Prepare for post-award orientation
• Respond to an SBA Ombudsman inquiry
• Ensure subcontracting compliance

SBP 2100V – Subcontracting

This course provides an in-depth overview of subcontracting as a means of maximizing small business opportunities. Participants will explore:

• The types of subcontracting plans and reports
• Key regulations and electronic systems
• Market research strategies to identify subcontracting opportunities
• Encouraging and shaping subcontracting strategies pre-solicitation
• Assessing subcontracting plans and small business participation
• Ensuring subcontractor compliance

Both SBP 2020V and SBP 2100V are key components of the CSBP 001A Small Business Professional Credential, equipping professionals with essential skills to navigate the acquisition lifecycle.

Both courses are now available in FAI CSOD—enroll today to expand your expertise and make a greater impact in small business acquisition!

FAC-P/PM Entry Level:

FPM 121 - Acquisition Fundamentals of Project and Program Management II, April 21-25, April 28-May 2, or May 5-9

FAC-COR Level 2:

FCR 201 - Contracting Officer's Representative Level 2, May 12-16

FAC-C (Professional):

CON 1200V - Contract Pre-Award, May 6-15

CON 1300V - Contract Award, May 5-14

CON 1400V - Contract Post-Award, May 5-13

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: ICF, CivicActions, Graduate School USA, Skylight, Management Concepts, and EAGLES. Learn more about DITAP by visiting the TechFAR Hub.

Join GSA on Tuesday, April 8, 2025, from 2–3 p.m. ET for a live Delegation of Procurement Authority (DPA) Training on GSA’s 8(a) STARS III Governmentwide Acquisition Contract (GWAC) for IT services. This session will:

• Explain GSA’s GWACs and their benefits
• Highlight key features of the 8(a) STARS III GWAC
• Clarify ordering procedures
• Define the responsibilities of ordering contracting officers

Don’t miss this opportunity to enhance your understanding of this important contract vehicle. Sign up here!

Federal employees—including contracting officers, program officials, managers, and executives—are invited to attend these free webinars to learn how Alliant 2 can support agency IT project initiatives. Warranted contracting officers must complete this training before requesting a Delegation of Procurement Authority (DPA), which allows them to issue orders under Alliant 2. This webinar takes place on April 16 at 11 a.m. ET and is open only to federal personnel. Register here. 

Join us on Wednesday, April 2, 2025, at 11 a.m. ET to explore how Alliant 2 can support your agency’s IT project initiatives. Warranted contracting officers must complete this training before requesting a Delegation of Procurement Authority (DPA), which authorizes them to issue orders under Alliant 2. Don’t miss this opportunity to gain key insights and ensure compliance. Reserve your seat now!