Army OSBP Magazine - October 2016 by ArmyOSBP

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Front Cover

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Director’s Message In This Issue 2. Director’s Message 3. CECOM OSBP Member Receives Prestigious AMC Small Business Programs Recognitionfor Excellence Award 3. Saying Farewell and Good Luck to Ms. Cathleen Higgins Perry, Outgoing CECOM OSBP Director 4. MICC Ft. Bragg Hosts 4th Acquisition Forecast Open House 5. TANTARA Corporation: “Continuing the Success” 6. Synergistic Outreach and Participation 7. USACE Experts Share How to Navigate Federal Contracting Regulations 9. Fort Riley Conducts Open House 10. CECOM OSBP Attends 2016 Spring National Small Business Federal Contracting Summit 10. Army Small Business Professional Training 11. The Small Business Administration Women-Owned Small Business Program 11. Team C4ISR Fiscal Year 2016 (FY16) Small Business Goals 12. New Small Business Career Field Launched 13. FY16 Army HUBZone Spending and Business Opportunities

U.S. Army OSBP 106 Army Pentagon Room 3B514 Washington, DC 20310 Phone: 703.697.2868 Fax: 703.693.3898 ArmySmallBusiness@mail.mil www.sellingtoarmy.com

Points of Contact Mr. Tommy L. Marks Director tommy.l.marks.civ@mail.mil Ms. Pamela D. Callicutt Deputy Director pamela.d.callicutt.civ@mail.mil Mr. James Lloyd Assistant to the Director Program Manager, SDVOSB & HUBZone james.c.lloyd20.civ@mail.mil Ms. Cynthia Lee Assistant to the Director Program Manager, Women-Owned Small Business, HBCU/MI and 8(a)/SDB cynthia.r.lee.civ@mail.mil Ms. Pamela L. Monroe Assistant to the Director Program Manager, Subcontracting pamela.l.monroe8.civ@mail.mil Ms. Sharon R. Morrow Assistant to the Director Program Manager, Mentor-Protégé, SBIR/STTR, Major Programs and Training sharon.r.morrow.civ@mail.mil Ms. Edith St. Catherine Staff Action Control Specialist catherine.e.stcatherine.civ@mail.mil Ms. Carla McAlpine-Franklin Support Contractor to Army OSBP ByteCubed, LLC carla.a.mcalpine-franklin.ctr@mail.mil ....................................................

Magazine Produced By Halfaker and Associates, LLC Support Contractor to Army OSBP Mr. Ricardo Ruiz ricardo.ruiz@halfaker.com

Upcoming Events

Please visit www.sellingtoarmy.com and click on “Calendar of Events.”

Connect with Army OSBP

Mr. Michael Patykula michael.t.patykula.ctr@mail.mil Mr. Matthew Ruffin matthew.j.ruffin.ctr@mail.mil Mr. Yoony Doh yoony.doh@halfaker.com

www.twitter.com/ArmySmallBiz www.facebook.com/ArmySmallBiz

ur program success is centered on four pillars: Mission, Compliance, Outreach, and Training. Since our last publication we have been very busy in all areas, but the primary focus from March to June was on Compliance, Outreach, and Training. Compliance: Led by the Office of Small Business Programs (OSBP) Deputy Director, we re-established the annual program management reviews mandated by small business statues, regulations, and Army policy. A review was completed at all Head of Contracting Activity levels – U.S. Army Intelligence and Security Command (INSCOM) (now assigned to AMC) in March; U.S. Army Materiel Command (AMC) in April; and U.S. Army Medical Command (MEDCOM), National Guard Bureau (NGB), and U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) were all completed in May. This review was conducted to determine the health of the Small Business Program across the Army, identify best practices that should be shared across the Army, and identify areas which require improvements. Outreach: Key outreach events during the period were supported by Army Senior Leadership. These events significantly enhanced the Army’s ability to engage industry, increase small business participation, conduct market research, identify potential vendors, and increase the capabilities and the diversity of the industrial base. In March, we saw AMC’s Team REDSTONE small business community host an outstanding forum leading up to the Association for the United States Army (AUSA) Winter Symposium, while U.S. Army Aviation and Missile Command (AMCOM) hosted an Advance Planning Brief to Industry (APBI). We concluded March by participating in the National Reservation Economic Summit, a conference focused on Native American vendors. In April, we participated in the U.S. Army Communications-Electronics Command (CECOM) Tobyhanna Army Depot Industry Day, Pentagon to the People with Office of the Secretary of Defense (OSD) at Tennessee State University, and ended the month with Historically Underutilized Business Zone (HUBZone)-Detroit hosted by OSD. May brought in the implementation of the Program Executive Office for Simulation, Training, and Instrumentation (PEO STRI) Mentor-Protégé Program and Army Sustainment Command’s Midwest

Mr. Tommy L. Marks Director, Army OSBP

APBI. We closed out June by attending the National Veterans Small Business Coalition. Training: In May, OSD hosted the Small Business Training and Small Business Innovation Research conference where the Army was recognized as “BEST” in the Department of Defense with the 1st annual Vanguard award. Subsequently at the OSD Mentor-Protégé training, Jacobs and Northwind Engineering, LLC were presented the Nunn-Perry award. Finally in June, OSBP hosted an Armyspecific training for over 100 small business, contracting, and requiring activity professionals. This event provided outstanding training and education opportunities which will enhance our capabilities. Small Business is BIG Business in the Department of the Army! ■ Mr. Tommy L. Marks Director, Army OSBP

www.sellingtoarmy.com

Army Small Business Connection | October 2016

U.S. Army OSBP • Building the Future of the Army through Small Business Utilization | www.sellingtoarmy.com

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U.S. Army OSBP 106 Army Pentagon Room 3B514 Washington, DC 20310 Phone: 703.697.2868 Fax: 703.693.3898 ArmySmallBusiness@mail.mil www.sellingtoarmy.com

Magazine Produced By Halfaker and Associates, LLC Support Contractor to Army OSBP Mr. Ricardo Ruiz ricardo.ruiz@halfaker.com

Upcoming Events

Please visit www.sellingtoarmy.com and click on “Calendar of Events.”

Connect with Army OSBP

Mr. Michael Patykula michael.t.patykula.ctr@mail.mil Mr. Matthew Ruffin matthew.j.ruffin.ctr@mail.mil Mr. Yoony Doh yoony.doh@halfaker.com

www.twitter.com/ArmySmallBiz www.facebook.com/ArmySmallBiz

Mr. Tommy L. Marks Director, Army OSBP

www.sellingtoarmy.com

Army Small Business Connection | October 2016

U.S. Army OSBP • Building the Future of the Army through Small Business Utilization | www.sellingtoarmy.com

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CECOM OSBP Member Receives Prestigious AMC Small Business Programs Recognitionfor Excellence Award

he Army Communications-Electronics Command (CECOM) Office of Small Business Programs (OSBP) is very excited to announce that Mr. James D. Branson, Small Business Specialist, has earned the Army Materiel Command (AMC) Small Business Programs Recognition for Excellence Award. Mr. Branson is the Service Disabled Veteran Owned and Historically Underutilized Business Zone (HUBZone) Program Manager for CECOM OSBP and has shown unparalleled initiative and support for these two programs. Mr. Branson ensured that all small businesses he came in contact with had a fair chance to participate in federal contracting. Mr. Branson also successfully coordinated the annual Advance Planning Briefing to Industry (APBI) Small Business Industry Forum that drew over 1,700 paid contractors for a three-day event held this past November. Due to his successful execution, this event generated a positive impact on our nation’s economy and strengthened ties with the local, state, and federal small business community. Mr. Branson also played an instrumental role in establishing numerous opportunities for small and service-disabled, veteran-owned small businesses covering organizational needs. Mr. Branson’s analytical skills assisted the Army Contracting Command-Aberdeen Proving Ground (ACC-APG) to achieve 23 percent of total small business eligible dollars against an overall small business goal of 14 percent for Fiscal Year 2015. This included contracts executed in all small business socio-economic categories. These are just a few examples of Mr. Branson’s unparalleled initiative and support. During his tenure with CECOM OSBP, Mr. Branson has mentored his peers and numerous development assignees exceptionally. ■ Submitted by: CECOM OSBP

Ms. Gloria Carr, the MICC Ft. Bragg Director, briefed those in attendance on how the MICC-Fort Bragg contracting office ensures transparency with contractors and industry partners. Industry representatives included small businesses at the local, regional and national level. Each participant received a copy of the presentation to increase awareness of upcoming requirements for MICC-Fort Bragg for the remainder of Fiscal Year (FY) 2016.

Pictured Left to Right CECOM OSBP Acting Director, Ms. Cathleen Perry, CECOM OSBP Small Business Specialist James Branson.

Submitted by: CECOM OSBP

fficials from the Mission and Installation Contracting Command (MICC) at Fort Bragg, North Carolina, conducted their 4th Acquisition Forecast Open House, attracting more than 200 industry representatives on March 30, 2016 at Fayetteville Community College. Mr. David King, the Deputy to the 419th Contracting Support Brigade Commander and Principal Assistant Responsible for Contracting (PARC), provided an overview of Fort Bragg’s primary customers and entities supported by the MICC, including Army Forces Command, 18th Airborne Corps, 82nd Airborne Division, 1st Theatre Sustainment Command, Directorate of Public Works, Army Garrison Fort Bragg, Army Security Assistance Training Management Organization, Logistics Readiness Center, Army Sustainment Command, Network Enterprise Command, and 440th Airlift Wing.

Saying Farewell and Good Luck to Ms. Cathleen Higgins Perry, Outgoing CECOM OSBP Director

he The U.S. Army Communications-Electronics Command (CECOM) Office of Small Business Programs (OSBP) bids farewell to the outgoing Acting Director, Ms. Cathleen Higgins Perry who joined CECOM OSBP in September 2015. During her tenure, she provided unparalleled leadership and guidance to promote and support small business opportunities and made significant contributions to the program. Ms. Perry’s key accomplishments include successfully organizing the goal sharing process with materiel enterprise partners amongst Team Command, Control, Communications, Computers, Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance (C4ISR), successfully executing a Historically Underutilized Business Zone (HUBZone) small business training outreach event, effectively recruiting developmental assignees from the CECOM Logistics Readiness Center (LRC) and the Software Engineering Center (SEC) to support CECOM OSBP mission and functions. We are also very excited to announce Ms. Perry was recently recognized as the Army Materiel Command (AMC) Small Business Director of the Year. We bid her farewell and good luck with her return to the AMC Legal Center – Aberdeen Proving Ground (APG). ■

MICC Ft. Bragg Hosts 4th Acquisition Forecast Open House

Ms. Georgette Dilworth, the MICC Small Business Specialist, discussed the national policy implementation, program management and the importance of acquisition advocacy. She briefed the audience on how small businesses can influence an acquisition by responding to Sources Sought notices. She also provided an overview of the MICC-Fort Bragg socio-economic goals for first and second quarters of FY 2016.

David King provides an overview of supported customers for contracted goods and services to more than 200 small business representatives as part of an Acquisition Forecast Open House on March 30, 2016 at Fayetteville Community College in North Carolina. King is the Deputy to the 419th Contracting Support Brigade Commander and Principal Assistant Responsible for Contracting (PARC)

“The purpose of the forecast forum is for businesses to team, share information and glean from one another,” said Dilworth. “After the forecast forum, many of the contractors exchanged business cards in hopes of teaming together for MICC-Fort Bragg requirements.” In a session dedicated to audience feedback, Ms. Deborah Word, a MICC Small Business Specialist, fielded several questions. Also, Ms. Mia Fagley provided an overview of the Small Business Administration (SBA) and discussed each of the set-aside programs and changes to those programs. Katie Boyd from FedBid discussed reverse auctioning. Mr. Terry Stroud from the Procurement Technical Assistance Center (PTAC) discussed the intricacies of working with the PTAC and services the center provides to small business contractors on understanding contracting procedures. Mr. Scott Dorney from the North Carolina Business Center also spoke about working together and partnering with small business. “Overall, the event was well attended,” Dilworth said, crediting the help provided by the 419th Contracting Support Brigade soldiers with registration. “The overall response was total satisfaction, and the audience was very receptive.” ■

From left to right: CECOM Deputy to the Commanding General Mr. Larry Muzzelo, CECOM OSBP Director, Ms. Cathleen Perry, CECOM Commanding General, MG Bruce T. Crawford.

Army Small Business Connection | October 2016

Submitted by: Georgette Dilworth Small Business Specialist MICC

From left, Scott Dorney, Georgette Dilworth, and Deborah Word provide support at the MICC Acquisition Forecast Open House on March 30, 2016 at Fayetteville Community College in North Carolina. Dorney is the Executive Director for the North Carolina Business Center. Word and Dilworth are MICC Small Business Specialists.

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CECOM OSBP Member Receives Prestigious AMC Small Business Programs Recognitionfor Excellence Award

Pictured Left to Right CECOM OSBP Acting Director, Ms. Cathleen Perry, CECOM OSBP Small Business Specialist James Branson.

Submitted by: CECOM OSBP

Saying Farewell and Good Luck to Ms. Cathleen Higgins Perry, Outgoing CECOM OSBP Director

MICC Ft. Bragg Hosts 4th Acquisition Forecast Open House

From left to right: CECOM Deputy to the Commanding General Mr. Larry Muzzelo, CECOM OSBP Director, Ms. Cathleen Perry, CECOM Commanding General, MG Bruce T. Crawford.

Army Small Business Connection | October 2016

Submitted by: Georgette Dilworth Small Business Specialist MICC

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TANTARA Corporation: “Continuing the Success”

n March of 2010, TANTARA entered into a DoD/Army Mentor-Protégé Agreement with Jacobs Engineering Group, Inc. As a part of that agreement, TANTARA has participated in 53 training activities covering topics such as: Environmental Remediation, Health & Safety, Unexploded Ordinance, Quality Assurance, Business Planning and Proposal Development, Preparation for the Project Management Professional (PMP) exam, and Senior Management Decision Making. Florida International University, a minority institution, assisted Jacobs in the delivery of these trainings.

This success has resulted in TANTARA being selected as one of the 70 fastest growing companies in the Boston, MA area in 2014, 2015 and 2016 and being named as one of the 100 fastest growing inner city businesses in the nation in 2014, 2015 and 2016. As a result of this assistance, effective corporate leadership, and a dedicated work force, TANTARA showed substantial growth between 2010 and 2013. The Company: • Increased staff from 12 to 18 employees, an increase of 50% • Expanded its geographical presence from its home office site in Worcester, MA to field sites in 12 states in the Northeast and Southeast United States • Expanded its technological capabilities from specialized contracting to heavy civil construction and environmental remediation • Increased revenue from $1.5 million to $7.6 million As a result of these and other successes, TANTARA and Jacobs were selected to receive a 2013 Nunn-Perry award, DoD’s top award for Mentor-Protégé excellence. TANTARA has continued its success over the past two years. The Company has: 1. Secured 10 new clients: • Air Force • Defense Logistics Agency • Coast Guard • U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) – Huntsville • Newport Naval Station • AECOM • National Park Service • CB&I • Parsons • Apex

2. Added buildings and infrastructure as a new business capability 3. Increased staff from 18 to 45 employees 4. Achieved revenue growth from $7.6 million to $14.3 million 5. Increased contract wins: • Won 7 Department of Defense and General Services Administration contracts valued at $46 million • Won more than $14 million in single award contracts • Teamed with large businesses to win 5 contracts including Multiple Award Military Munitions Services, Multiple Award Environmental Services, U. S. Army Corps of Engineers – Kansas City, Preplaced Remedial Action Contract, and Navy Unrestricted Remedial Action Contract 6. TANTARA’s emphasis on quality has resulted in 95% of their Construction Contractor Appraisal Support System ratings being “Very Good” or “Exceptional/Outstanding.” This success has resulted in TANTARA being selected as one of the 70 fastest growing companies in the Boston, MA area in 2014, 2015 and 2016 and being named as one of the 100 fastest growing inner city businesses in the nation in 2014, 2015 and 2016. Ms. Dawn Dearborn, President of TANTARA, commented on her company’s success stating, “We are grateful for our continued growth and attribute it to the employees working at our firm. Every day they uphold our Company’s values of providing excellent client service performing work utilizing above industry standard safety and quality protocol. We learned the value of these things through the Mentor-Protégé Program.” Mr. Bill Sawrey, the Project Manager for the Jacobs’ Mentor-Protégé Program, commented that, “Jacobs is proud to be associated with TANTARA and the Army Mentor-Protégé Program, and congratulates Dawn Dearborn and TANTARA on their continuing growth and success.” ■ Submitted by: Pamela Monroe Assistant to the Director Army OSBP TANTARA, headquartered in Worcester, MA, is a: • Woman-Owned Small Business • Small Disadvantaged Business • Historically Underutilized Business Zone • 8(a) firm incorporated in 2000

Army Small Business Connection | October 2016

Synergistic Outreach and Participation

he U.S. Army Medical Research and Materiel Command (USAMRMC) and the U.S. Army Medical Research Acquisition Activity (USAMRAA) Office of Small Business Programs (OSBP) recently supported two command strategic outreach events, the Medical Research, Development and Acquisition in Support of the Warfighter conference and the Fort Detrick Acquisition Forecast Open House in April and May. These events coincide with Department of Army Small Business Program statutory requirements, which in part provide information to the general public about anticipated procurements during the current fiscal year and beyond. Approximately 320 military, academic and industry representatives gathered at the second annual Medical Research, Development and Acquisition in Support of the Warfighter Conference, co-hosted by the National Defense Industrial Association and the USAMRMC, April 19-20, 2016 at the Turf Valley Conference Center in Ellicott City, Maryland. The OSBP also participated in the PreConference Seminar on April 18, 2016 in an effort to help the 75 representatives from government, industry and academia in attendance to become acquainted with competing for government procurement opportunities. The Pre-Conference Seminar was developed to provide attendees with an overview of the organizational structure of the command headquarters and its subordinate commands, its mission and an abbreviated overview of various funding mechanisms and procurement opportunities. OSBP’s presentation focused on educating prospective contractors on how to effectively compete for specific procurements and methods to efficiently market their medical research products, services, and business solutions as a prime or a subcontractor. The USAMRMC continues to encourage small businesses to compete for various funding opportunities from eligible organizations that include for profit, nonprofit, public, and private organizations, such as hospitals, laboratories, companies, and universities, and colleges – including historically black colleges, universities and other minority institutions.

MG Brian C. Lein, Commander, U.S. Army Medical Research and Materiel Command and Fort Detrick, emphasizes the importance of partnerships to achieve solutions to issues that Warfighters are currently facing and will face in the future during his opening remarks of the Medical Research, Development and Acquisition in Support of the Warfighter conference. The conference was held April 19-20 at the Turf Valley Conference Center in Ellicott City, Maryland. (Photo by: Melissa Myers, USAMRMC Public Affairs)

USAMRMC is the Army’s medical materiel developer with responsibility for medical research, advanced development, and medical logistics. USAMRMC expertise in these critical areas contributes significantly to the health of our military Service Members, as well as their families, our veterans and the public. During the following month, OSBP participated with Fort Belvoir’s Mission and Installation Contracting Command (MICC) during a Fort Detrick Acquisition Open House. Approximately 250 registered attendees participated at the event on May 11, 2016 at the Fort Detrick Community Support Center. Representatives from the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) and the State of Maryland Procurement and Technical Assistance Program (PTAC) also attended the event. The goal of the

Open House was to help large and small business firms gain knowledge about anticipated government procurements across the installation. The active participation and contributions by USAMRMC/USAMRAA OSBP in outreach events reaffirms the command’s intent and commitment to maximize small business opportunities in support of the Warfighter and the institutional transformation of the Army. The exchange of guidance during these outreach sessions helps to eliminate unnecessary communication barriers while being transparent in the delivery of information to the public. ■ Submitted by: Jerome K. Maultsby Assistant Director Office of Small Business Programs

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TANTARA Corporation: “Continuing the Success”

Army Small Business Connection | October 2016

Synergistic Outreach and Participation

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USACE Experts Share How to Navigate Federal Contracting Regulations

n an effort to help businesses become more familiar with the government acquisition process and its nuances, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) recently held two industry day events designed to explain how to effectively do business with the federal government. The events included a general introduction to the federal contracting process, information about the tools needed to do business with the Corps, the Best Value process, and how to improve project proposals. “We recognize that navigating the federal contracting process with its many regulations and requirements isn’t easy,” said Ms. Carol McIntyre, Deputy for Small Business for the Corps, Portland District. “We wanted to offer an opportunity for business owners who want to compete for government contracts to ask questions and hear from the Corps’ acquisition professionals to learn how to bid effectively and do business with us.”

COL Jose Aguilar, Portland District Commander, provided an overview of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers history and mission in the Pacific Northwest. Aguilar said it’s important for Corps project teams to meet with business representatives and exchange information in an environment that balances both parties’ needs while respecting the fair contracting opportunities. (Image courtesy of U.S. Army Corps of Engineers)

The Portland District’s Small Business Office looks for companies that have the services and products the District needs to accomplish its missions: businesses that can provide everything from supplies and materials to construction services. “We understand businesses are exploring new technologies and innovative engineering methods,” said COL Jose Aguilar, Portland District Commander. “It’s important for our project teams to meet with these businesses’ representatives and exchange information. That needs to happen in an environment that balances both parties’ needs, while respecting fair contracting opportunities.” Additionally, Corps representatives provided information about upcoming opportunities, including the Corps Jetty Rehabilitation projects at the mouth of the Columbia River. The huge undertaking will rely on sub-contractors, including small businesses, to provide materials like thousands of tons of jetty stone that must meet specific quality thresholds. “We’re still in the planning stages for these projects,” said Mr. Jerry Otto, MCR Jetty Rehabilitation Project Manager. “We felt it was important to share what we know: estimates for stone quantities, testing requirements, and potential measurement, and payment options. Giving the industry

More than 200 people attended the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers’ industry day events on April 26 and 27, 2016. Attendees represented businesses such as quarries, barging and dredging, environmental and design consultants, supplies, and construction. Corps contracting specialists and members of project teams shared information about how to effectively submit proposals for Corps projects and some upcoming project opportunities. (Image courtesy of U.S. Army Corps of Engineers)

advance notice of requirements gives them the opportunity to increase their competitiveness.” Providing information prior to the contract bidding process at events like industry day workshops and online forums, such as FedBizOpps, gives potential bidders time to conduct the required testing and obtain the permits they’ll need before the Corps can effectively evaluate the quality of the stone and the reliability of the source. The Corps is dedicated to developing small businesses and maximizing their opportunities to take part in the federal procurement process. Business owners

who want to compete for government contracts have an ally in the Corps, whose specialists will help them learn to navigate the labyrinth of rules and requirements that are the Federal Acquisition Regulations. “We can nurture small businesses until they become large businesses - and in return they become valuable partners who can meet future government needs,” McIntyre said. ■ Submitted by: Michelle Helms Public Affairs Specialist U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Portland District

Army Small Business Connection | October 2016

Two small projects recently made big impacts in the Northwest: the Trestle Bay Ecosystem Restoration and the Spirit Lake Tunnel Repair projects. Two Washington state-based small businesses, LKE Corporation and Catworks, LLC, recently completed the projects for the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. The Corps actively seeks companies that have the skills and services necessary to complete projects that are often in locations far from metropolitan areas. (Photos courtesy of U.S. Army Corps of Engineers)

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USACE Experts Share How to Navigate Federal Contracting Regulations

Army Small Business Connection | October 2016

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Fort Riley Conducts Open House

CECOM OSBP Attends 2016 Spring National Small Business Federal Contracting Summit

Mr. Anthony Tiroch addresses small business representatives during the Mission and Installation Contracting Command Acquisition Forecast Open House May 19 at Fort Riley, Kansas. (Photo by Troy Strifler/U.S. Army)

fficials from the Mission and Installation Contracting Command (MICC) at Fort Riley, Kansas, hosted their first MICC Fort Riley Acquisition Forecast Open House event on May 19, 2016 for 42 small business contractors. The small business outreach event presented procurement opportunities with MICC-Fort Riley. The information provided assisted contractors in preparing their business plan for the upcoming fiscal year. The event was supported by two main procurement organizations in the Kansas community: the Kansas Procurement Technical Assistance Center (PTAC) and Small Business Administration (SBA). In addition, Mr. Larry Hicks, Geary County Board of Commission and Mr. Jim Sands, City Commissioner, were in attendance for this year’s event. Ms. Stacey Swader, the MICC-Fort Riley Business Operations Chief, presented the small business acquisition forecast offering a glimpse into future contracting opportunities at the installation. The list of upcoming major acquisitions discussed included school bus services, general pest control, laundry and dry cleaning, Fort Riley map and guide, washers and dryers,

packing and crating, and exhaust vent cleaning. Mr. Anthony Tiroch, the Director of MICCFort Riley, explained, “This event supports small businesses with limited resources in identifying business opportunities within Mission and Installation Contracting Command.” Mr. Tiroch also stated that the MICC is committed to building a ready, transparent and accountable organization that is built on trust and respect. He added that the Open House is a part of that commitment. “Small businesses are the backbone of this country’s economy and have helped MICC-Fort Riley achieve all their small business goals for over five years straight.” Presentations on the SBA’s programs, the use of reverse auctioning federal business opportunities, Contracting 101, and the Kansas PTAC were held after the acquisition forecast briefing. “It is important for small businesses to understand the different programs since we place extra emphasis on setting aside opportunities to meet the Army’s Small Business goals,” said Ms. Teri Taylor from the Wichita District SBA Office.

The SBA also discussed the different initiatives released this fiscal year including the SBA Emerging Leaders Program to help second stage businesses develop a three to five year strategic growth plan, the Boots 2 Business Program to assist service member veterans, and the Education and Outreach Program. The small business presentation proved beneficial to contractors unfamiliar with SBA programs, their qualifications, and how to maintain the necessary certifications for the different programs that are offered. Feedback from attendees was overwhelmingly positive and several participants suggested that MICC-Fort Riley host more small business outreach events. Additionally, contracting officials believe that as a result of this business outreach event, small businesses are able to be more strategic in business development and responsive in seeking future small business opportunities within MICC-Fort Riley. ■ Submitted by: Capt. Naleya K. Scott Mission and Installation Contracting Command, Fort Riley, Kansas

Ms. Stacey Swader presents a forecast of contracting opportunities to small business representatives during the Mission and Installation Contracting Command Acquisition Forecast Open House May 19 at Fort Riley, Kansas. (Photo by Troy Strifler/U.S. Army)

Army Small Business Connection | October 2016

n March 17, 2016, Army Communications-Electronics Command (CECOM) Office of Small Business Programs (OSBP) representatives, Ms. Jeannie Nguyen and Ms. Megan Farley, supported the 2016 Spring National Small Business Federal Contracting Summit networking and One-on-One Agency meeting event which was held in Washington, DC. The event was presented by the American Small Business Chamber of Commerce and the U.S Women’s Chamber of Commerce. The CECOM OSBP team, along with the Department of the Army (DA) OSBP representative, Ms. Cynthia Lee, counseled industry participants on how to do business with the Army and CECOM. Ha (Jeannie) Dinh-Nguyen, CECOM OSBP Small Business Specialist

The morning session included various speakers and provided insight on topics ranging from effectively responding to Request for Information (RFI) and Sources Sought notices, specific details on socio-economic Programs, sole source contracting rules, and insights into how industry technical expertise is considered a viable source in determining future acquisition strategies.

where their capabilities could potentially align with the various programs that support CECOM’s overall mission. In this competitive marketplace where innovation thrives, OSBP is continuously working to seek out industry capabilities to aid and collaborate with our team to posture for readiness.

During the afternoon event, CECOM Small Business Specialists met with over 40 industry partners to discuss upcoming contract opportunities and to provide relevant program information on

The Spring National Small Business Federal Contracting Summit event has bloomed over the past two years, now with over 250 participants representing 24 states. Feedback received from

the event was extremely positive. Our team’s participation at the round table networking event was a success in fostering our search for new market entrants that provide the expertise to sustain the “gold standard” small business program in the Army. ■ Submitted by: CECOM OSBP

Army Small Business Professional Training

ection Over 145 small business and acquisition professionals attended the Army Small Business Professional Training hosted by the Department of the Army Office of Small Business Programs (OSBP). The training was held at the National Center for Employee Development (NCED) in Norman, OK from June 6-10, 2016. The overall theme was “Building a Sustainable Future through Changes, Challenges, and Opportunities.” Mr. Tommy L. Marks, Director of Army OSBP, kicked off the training with a warm welcome address. The key note speakers were The Honorable John

Shoraka, Associate Administrator, Government Contracting and Business Development, Small Business Administration; and Mr. Kenyata Wesley, Acting Director, Department of Defense Office of Small Business Programs. A host of dynamic panelists and engaging speakers covered numerous topics such as Comprehensive Subcontracting Plans, Intergovernmental Service Agreements, Overseas Exclusions/Goals, Acquisition Strategy Reviews and Pre-Briefs, and Professional Development Opportunities.

The highlight of the training event was the Small Business Awards Ceremony hosted by Mr. Marks and moderated by Ms. Cynthia Lee, Assistant to the Director. Over 30 small business and acquisition professionals were recognized for exceptional support of the Army Small Business Program. ■ Submitted by: Ms. Portia Deans Assistant to the Director Army OSBP

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Fort Riley Conducts Open House

CECOM OSBP Attends 2016 Spring National Small Business Federal Contracting Summit

Army Small Business Connection | October 2016

During the afternoon event, CECOM Small Business Specialists met with over 40 industry partners to discuss upcoming contract opportunities and to provide relevant program information on

The Spring National Small Business Federal Contracting Summit event has bloomed over the past two years, now with over 250 participants representing 24 states. Feedback received from

Army Small Business Professional Training

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The Small Business Administration Women-Owned Small Business Program

ection 8(m) of the Small Business Act, 15 United States Code 637(m) was implemented in February 2011 and created the Women-Owned Small Business (WOSB) Program. The purpose of the program is to ensure women-owned small business firms have an equal opportunity to participate in federal contracting, and to assist agencies in achieving their assigned women-owned small business goals. Economically Disadvantaged Women-Owned Small Business (EDWOSB) concern is a subcategory of women-owned small business concern. The federal goal for WOSB is 5 percent, which includes EDWOSBs. To qualify as a WOSB under the program, the small business firm must be at least 51 percent directly and unconditionally owned by, and the management and daily business operations controlled by, one or more women who are citizens of the United States in accordance with 13 CFR 127. An EDWOSB concern means a small business concern that is at least 51 percent directly and unconditionally owned by, and the management and daily business operations controlled by, one or more women who are citizens of the United States, and who are economically disadvantaged in accordance with 13 CFR 127. There are specific North American Industry Classification Systems (NAICS) codes established for WOSB. A contracting officer may set-aside a requirement for WOSB or EDWOSB,

NAICS codes were revised in 2016 and became effective March 3, 2016. Solicitations published prior to the effective date for the revised codes should use 2012 WOSB NAICS codes or 2012 EDWOSB NAICS codes, as applicable. Solicitations published on or after the effective date for the new revised NAICS codes should use 2016 WOSB NAICS codes or 2016 EDWOSB NAICS codes, as applicable. More information on the WOSB program (to include EDWOSB), and applicable NAICS codes can be found at https://www.sba. gov/contracting/government-contracting-programs/womenowned-small-businesses. ■ Submitted by: Ms. Cynthia Lee Assistant to the Director Army OSBP

epartment of Defense’s (DoD) Office of Small Business Programs (OSBP) workforce vision is to sustain the DoD Small Business (SB) workforce with superior talent and skills and to have a SB-knowledgeable acquisition workforce that maximizes the contributions of small businesses to DoD acquisitions. To achieve that vision, DoD OSBP launched the new SB career field on October 1st, 2015. The SB career field includes a training program for the DoD acquisition workforce that implements a cross-functional team and enables the development of an in-depth, enterprise-wide experience through training and certification.

certification requires one year of acquisition experience.

In 2011, the Office of Personnel Management (OPM) performed a study that determined that the SB workforce was not receiving adequate training and that there was a lack of standard processes and no clear career plan. Yet, SB professionals influence a great deal of DoD acquisitions and perform a multitude of functions including conducting market research, reviewing acquisition strategies and acquisition plans, performing advocacy and outreach, and providing subcontracting plan oversight.

More information on the WOSB program (to include EDWOSB), Level 2 requires the following courses. SB 201 is a pre-requisite for SB 202. Level 2 certification requires two years of acquisition experience.

Having a formal SB career field provides many benefits including:

Team C4ISR Fiscal Year 2016 (FY16) Small Business Goals

n line with the Small Business Administration (SBA) Goaling Process, the Army Material Command (AMC) Office of Small Business Programs (OSBP) establishes Small Business goal assignments across the AMC Major Subordinate Commands (MSC). AMC assigns Small Business Program percentage goals against Prime contract obligations in each of the required small business socio-economic categories. This ensures a baseline commitment by the Army Communications-Electronics Command (CECOM) and Team Command, Control, Communications, Computers, Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance (C4ISR) to provide opportunities for small business programs that are consistent with mission requirements, law, and regulations. CECOM shares the FY16 Small Business targeted goals with all of the enterprise partners amongst CECOM MSC, to include Team C4ISR and the Aberdeen Proving Ground (APG) Garrison Community. The proposed goals were derived from a trend analysis that examined small business historical data from past fiscal years and projected future awards in the upcoming fiscal year. This information was used to develop and implement a new Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) that assigned each organization their share of the FY small business program goals. Once the goals are established, a memorandum signed by the CECOM Commanding General (CG) and Executive Director of the Army Contracting Command (ACC)-APG, is sent to each agency head to ensure program awareness on their Organization’s goals. This process provides the initiative for each

if the NAICS code assigned to the solicitation falls within the specific NAICS code designated for the program. The award can either be made on a sole-source basis or competitively. The acquisition strategy is dependent upon the results of the market research.

New Small Business Career Field Launched

Agency to pursue and promote early small business utilization in their acquisition planning. It also increases the search for new emerging technologies and reduces barriers to entry for businesses that could potentially provide the equipment and services that meet requirements and exceed small business program goals. CECOM OSBP provides assistance to industry by supporting and marketing capabilities to the Acquisition team and stakeholders. The OSBP team provides assistance to the requiring activities and contracting personnel in developing small business strategies and identify contracting alternatives that will ensure the command optimizes prime contract and subcontract opportunities for small businesses. Vendors interested in doing business with Team C4ISR are invited to contact CECOM OSBP at USARMY. APG.CECOM.MBX.CECOM-SMALL-BUSINESS@MAIL.MIL. A Small Business Specialist will provide hands-on capabilities reviews with the assistance of Program Managers and Technical Liaisons as applicable from the prospective organizations. ■ Submitted by: CECOM OSBP

• Enhanced development of in-depth small business expertise through certification • New opportunities for professionals from different career fields to specialize, as needed, in Small Business • More cross-functional acquisition workforce • Increased SB support to enhance capability and readiness • Greater control and access to training resources • Better-defined professional pathways • Increased professional development opportunities

• • • • •

ACQ 101, Systems Acquisition (DL) ACQ 315, Understanding Industry (ILT) SB 201, Intermediate SB, Part A (DL)* SB 202, Intermediate SB, Part B (ILT)* CON 216, Legal Considerations for Contracting (ILT) or ACQ 370, Acquisition Law (ILT) • SB 210 Subcontracting (ILT)* • SB 220 Business Decisions for SB (DL)* • HBS module (DL)

• SB 301, SB for Decision Makers (ILT)* • ACQ 201, Part A, Intermediate Systems Acquisition (DL) • HBS module (DL) A majority of the current SB workforce have already taken some of these courses or their predecessor courses for their DAWIA certification. There will be a process called “fulfillment” where Defense Acquisition Career Managers (DACM) will assess and accept a SB professional’s past trainings and experience towards the fulfillment of training requirements. A DoD Form (DD Form) 2518 is required as part of the fulfillment process. The future of the SB career field holds standardized processes, minimum competencies at various levels, greater access to training resources, and increased opportunities. ■ Submitted by: Ms. Sharon Morrow Assistant to the Director Army OSBP

It is important to note that a career field has been established, rather than a career path. A career field requires Defense Acquisition Workforce Improvement Act (DAWIA) certification, whereas a career path does not. The target occupational series for the SB career field is 1101, but other series, such as 1102 or 300, can also be utilized. Nine new training courses, identified by an asterisk (*) below, are nearly complete and several people have already attended pilot courses for SB 101, 102, and 110. Five of the courses are Distance Learning (DL) courses and four are Instructor-Led Training (ILT). All course development will be complete by October 1st, 2016 and all of the pilots for the courses will be completed by January 2017. DAWIA requires both education and experience in order to achieve certification at Levels 1, 2, and 3. Level 1 requires the following courses. SB 101 is a pre-requisite for SB 102. Level 1

Army Small Business Connection | October 2016

• SB 101, Introduction to SB, Part A (DL)* • SB 102, Introduction to SB, Part B (ILT)* • SB 110, FAR Fundamentals for SB Professionals (DL)* • SB 120, Contract Lifecycle for SB Professionals (DL)* • CON 100, Shaping Smart Business Arrangements (ILT) • CON 237, Simplified Acquisition Procedures (DL) • Module from Harvard Business School (HBS) (DL)

Level 3 requires the following courses. All of the SB courses are a prerequisite for SB 301. Level 3 certification requires four years of acquisition experience.

The SB career field provides a developmental continuum that builds leadership skills as the SB Professional gains experience, increases training, and improves technical skills. Basic training is geared for the GS 7-11 level, intermediate training targets the GS 11-13 level; while advanced training if focused for the GS 13-15 level. Senior training is for GS 15 level and above, including Senior Executive Service (SES) leaders.

U.S. Army OSBP • Building the Future of the Army through Small Business Utilization | www.sellingtoarmy.com

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The Small Business Administration Women-Owned Small Business Program

certification requires one year of acquisition experience.

Having a formal SB career field provides many benefits including:

Team C4ISR Fiscal Year 2016 (FY16) Small Business Goals

New Small Business Career Field Launched

• • • • •

Army Small Business Connection | October 2016

Level 3 requires the following courses. All of the SB courses are a prerequisite for SB 301. Level 3 certification requires four years of acquisition experience.

U.S. Army OSBP • Building the Future of the Army through Small Business Utilization | www.sellingtoarmy.com

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FY16 Army HUBZone Spending and Business Opportunities

he The Department of the Army, has had some successes in achieving and exceeding the Historically Underutilized Business Zone (HUBZone) small business prime contracting goals from FY 2008 – FY 2011 and FY2014 & 2015. As depicted in the attached graph, the Army, on average, performed over 30% higher than the goals set by the Small Business Administration during the period of FY 2008 – FY 2011. Although the goals for FY12 and FY13 were missed, the Army was extremely successful in the last two fiscal years (FY14 and FY15). However, it appears that the FY 16 HUBZone Small Business performance will be just short of the 3% prime contracting goal. One of the main factors impacting this socio-economic category can be attributed in part to the inclusion of the Overseas spend in the FY16 total available Army dollars. Other impacts involves the reduction in the overall budget for the Army, due to congressionally imposed Continuing Resolutions and sequestration, and the decertification of approximately 60% of certified HUBZone since FY 2011, reducing the pool of prospective HUBZone businesses available for the Army to award contracts. However, the Army can still achieve its HUBZone statutory goal for FY16 based on the 20 plus HUBZone set-aside opportunities currently listed in FPDS-NG. Buying commands around the country should get the word out to eligible HUBZone firms concerning these opportunities.

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Currently, over $900M have been awarded to HUBZone small businesses for work performed during this fiscal year to date. States like Virginia, California, Georgia, and New York have received the most dollars due to the sheer amount of spending in these states, but other states have seen a larger percentage of their spending go towards HUBZone businesses. Oklahoma leads the country with over 11.5% of all small business eligible dollars awarded to HUBZone businesses, followed by Alaska, Mississippi, and Louisiana. The national average is currently around 2%. ■

Our Mission

• Advise the Secretary of the Army and the Army leadership on small business related matters • Spearhead innovative initiatives that contribute to expanding the small business industrial base relevant to the Army mission priorities • Leverage the use of minority serving educational institutions in support of Army science and technology programs

Our Vision

To be the premier advocacy organization committed to maximizing small business utilization in support of rapidly fielding a trained, ready, responsive and capable force that can prevent conflict, shape the environment and win the Nation’s wars.

Statement by President Barack Obama

“Small businesses are the backbone of our economy and the cornerstones of our communities. They create two of every three new jobs in America, spur economic growth, and spark new industries across the country. We will continue to create new incentives to help small business owners hire new workers, promote growth and do what America does best - invest in the creativity and imagination of our people.” -President Barack Obama

Submitted by: Mr. Josh Ruffin Support Contractor Army OSBP

U.S. Army OSBP

Army Small Business Connection | October 2016

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FY16 Army HUBZone Spending and Business Opportunities

Production of the next issue is already underway! Please submit articles to: michael.t.patykula.ctr@mail.mil

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Our Mission

Our Vision

Statement by President Barack Obama

Submitted by: Mr. Josh Ruffin Support Contractor Army OSBP

U.S. Army OSBP

Army Small Business Connection | October 2016

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