Johnathan Lightfoot

Key Factor for DoD Projects: Understanding the Importance of Labor Supply Why Labor Supply? When it comes to defense projects, the demand for specialized skills and clearances is non-negotiable. The availability of a skilled and credentialed workforce can make or break the operational capabilities of any facility. From engineers to IT specialists and security personnel, each role is crucial and requires a specific set of skills and certifications. Strategic Site Selection Choosing a location isn’t just about land and logistics; it’s fundamentally about people. Before committing to a new site, we rigorously analyze the local and regional labor markets to ensure there is a sustainable supply of qualified workers. This often means looking beyond current statistics and forecasting future educational and training trends. Building Local Partnerships Engaging with local educational institutions and training centers is crucial. By fostering these relationships, we can help shape curriculums and programs that not only benefit the community by providing job opportunities but also create a reliable pipeline of talent tailored to meet the unique needs of defense projects. The Bottom Line For anyone considering where to locate their next defense-related operation, our advice is clear: prioritize your labor supply strategy. Understanding and integrating into the local workforce ecosystem is not just a good practice—it’s essential for long-term success. Looking to expand or establish new operations? Let’s connect and discuss how to strategically navigate your next site selection to ensure access to the best talent available. https://ow.ly/6UK250RnbCe #DefenseIndustry #SiteSelection #WorkforceDevelopment #LaborMarket #StrategicPlanning

3

GSA Schedule Holders - Don't Miss This!! GSA is planning to release Refresh 22 to its MAS Solicitation 47QSMD20R0001 and an associated mass mod for existing schedule holders in August 2024. GSA will hold a webinar on Monday, July 22, 2024 at 1pm ET. The link to join is https://lnkd.in/gSAT5biS Refresh 22 expands OPTIONAL participation in the Transactional Data Reporting (TDR) pilot to 67 SINs! Make sure you understand what that means to you should you select to participate. Learn more about TDR at https://lnkd.in/g-h8Yn9A The refresh also adds a statement to FAR Clause 52.232-36 under GSAR/M clause SCP-FSS-001 regarding payments made by the Governmentwide Purchase Card (GPC) and related processing fees, that reads: "Proposed prices must be inclusive of all costs associated with acceptance of the Governmentwide commercial purchase card (e.g., payment processing fees). Schedule contractors may not impose a surcharge at the order level for payment by Governmentwide commercial purchase card." This is important so you can recoup processing fees as the Government pushes to expand its use of the GPC into contract payments. Sell software on GSA Schedules? GSAM/R clause I-FSS-600 will be modified to add that MAS contractors MAY indicate if a software producer has attested that software complies with Government-specified secure software development practices and has an attestation form uploaded to the CISA repository by adding language provided in the Refresh under bullet 18b, Terms and Conditions, in their text file. Addinional updates include: ▶ Updates to specific large categories, subcategories, and SINs as follows: ⏩ Facilities (B), Subcategory B02, SIN 541690E ⏩ Industrial Products (E), Subcategory E04, SINs 332510C and 332510S ⏩ Industrial Products (E), Subcategory E05, SIN 325320 ⏩ Transportation and Logistics Services (K), Subcategory K03, SINs 492110 and 492210SB ⏩ Transportation and Logistics Services (K), Subcategory K05, SINs 485 and 532111 ⏩ Travel (L), Subcategory L01, SIN 531 ⏩ Travel (L), Subcategory L02, SIN 531110 ▶ Implement minor revisions to the Modification Products Price Proposal Template (PPT) ▶ Incorporate clause and provision updates, through Federal Acquisition Circular (FAC) 2024-05 and GSAR/M Change 182 Details can be found at https://lnkd.in/grVYMCnf #gsa #schedules #refresh22 #massmod #MAS

21

The latest Vaco Talent Pulse Report reveals a dynamic job market with strong confidence in job security and career advancement:   - Job Security Confidence: Highest recorded confidence since Q3 2023, with a notable increase in those feeling secure in their roles. - Economic Context: Despite higher unemployment rates in the U.S. and Canada, job seekers and employees are showing remarkable resilience. - Career and Financial Outlook: Optimism remains high for both financial improvement and career advancement, with significant increases in confidence compared to last year.   As we navigate these uncertain times, understanding these trends can help you stay ahead in your career or hiring strategy. Check out the full report for comprehensive insights: https://lnkd.in/etX7GA87   #TalentTrends #CareerAdvancement #JobMarketInsights #EconomicResilience #VTNE #Vaco

2

More Focus in FY25 tips...Proposal Red Flags. I'm giving you 6 major red flags that I've seen from my experience as a Contracting Officer and Technical Evaluation Board Chairperson that indicate a high risk proposal to the Government. Read about them in my November FedSubK Feature.

32

GovCon Expert Payam Pourkhomami discusses the importance of Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification 2.0 third-party assessments in strengthening cybersecurity for Department of Defense contractors. Read the full article:  🔗 https://lnkd.in/esFHEwYi _____ #GovConExpert #CMMC #GovernmentContracting

3

1 Comment

Turning Challenges into Victories: Your Action Plan Ready to conquer government contracting? 🚀 1. Master SBA Certification: Gain a competitive edge with programs like SBA 8(a). 2. Network & Research: Engage with fellow small businesses in govcon. Tailor your bids for maximum impact. 3. Team Excellence: Showcase your team's expertise and proven success, regardless of industry. Transform challenges into opportunities with Dr. Ebony Grey! Contact us now to ignite your business growth. Let's chart your path to success together! #GovernmentContracting #SBA8a #SmallBusinessSuccess #DrEbonyGrey #ActionPlan

17

Breaking into defense contracting? Start small, aim smart! Small businesses can succeed by targeting smaller bids and leveraging key certifications like HUBZone and SDVOSB. Let's explore how to scale your defense contracting business step by step. 📈 📺 Joe shares tips on how small businesses can win their first contracts: Discover more at Transform42inc.com. #SmallBusinessSuccess #DefenseContracting #BiddingTips #BusinessGrowth

2

📢 Calling all aspiring government contractors! 🏢💼 🔐 Unlock the secrets to winning government contracts with our exclusive guide: "Mastering the RFP: Secrets to Winning Government Contracts." 📚💪 Are you tired of feeling like the underdog in the competitive world of government procurement? Are you ready to rise above the rest and secure those lucrative contracts? Then this is the post you've been waiting for! 💥 Join us on a journey of knowledge and empowerment as we delve into the art of crafting winning proposals that catch the eye of government agencies. 🎯💡 In this guide, we'll reveal insider tips, proven strategies, and hidden gems of wisdom that will give you an edge in the RFP (Request for Proposal) game. From deciphering complex requirements to showcasing your unique value proposition, we've got you covered! 📝✨ But here's the twist: We want YOU to be part of the conversation! 💬💭 Share your experiences, challenges, and success stories in the comments below. Let's create a vibrant dialect where we learn from each other, support one another, and collectively elevate our chances of winning those coveted government contracts. 🤝🌟 Tag a friend who would benefit from this guide and let's build a community of ambitious contractors hungry for success! 🙌🔥 Ready to unlock the secrets? Click the link in our bio to get your hands on "Mastering the RFP: Secrets to Winning Government Contracts" and let the journey begin! 🚀💼 #GovernmentContracts101 #RFPWinners #ContractingCommunity #SuccessStories #EmpoweredContractors

1

1 Comment

What’s the hot news? The CMMC Program definition will be a regulation in the Federal Register in a matter of days. We’re all going to hear more about 32 CFR 170. So what? For companies in the Defense Industrial Base (DIB) it’s time to fish or cut bait. Above all, whether to take on CMMC is a business decision. For most companies, CMMC is a commitment to spend 6 or 7 figures for the one time lift plus on-going costs to maintain. That’s not just a business decision but a big business decision. Technology is involved but not center stage. If you know a company with this challenge, stay tuned to this space. Or reach out for a private conversation. It is possible to base this decision on data with verified accuracy. We’ve done it a dozen times.

3

4 Comments

DOD Planning, Programming, Budgeting, and Execution (PPBE) Process - DOD Planning, Programming, Budgeting, and Execution (PPBE) Process https://hubs.ly/Q02FHQjP0

11

Reduce the time and costs your organization incurs developing, implementing, and managing Enterprise Architecture by attending the upcoming public distance learning July 15 - 18, 2024, EACOE Enterprise Architecture Training and Certification Workshop. We get you ready to develop Enterprise Architectures "next Monday morning!" More than theory alone, EACOE Certification has you participating in all the phases of Enterprise Architecture and certifying your ability to transfer that knowledge to your organization. With EACOE - The Enterprise Architecture Center Of Excellence™ - you and your teams gain and practice the most cost-effective Enterprise Architecture approach, with the only (vendor-neutral) integrated environment focused on successful Enterprise outcome-driven results and frictionless development/implementation/management efforts. Develop Initiatives to enable Enterprise goals and achieve maximum ROI. Review the complete Workshop outline with what you will receive and learn from attending an EACOE Enterprise Architecture Training, Education, and Certification Workshop: https://lnkd.in/eY6tmJhn Attend the July 15 - 18, 2024, EACOE Enterprise Architecture Workshop by registering at this link: https://lnkd.in/eaZWkgXF Once registration is confirmed, we ship physical materials directly to you. #EnterpriseArchitecture #EnterpriseArchitect #EACOE

14

Is it time to bring on a business developer for your GovCon company? In our on-demand webinar, we dive into the right time to hire, what to look for, and the red flags to watch out for when building your BD team. I’m thrilled to host with Chelsea Meggitt, CEO of Collaborative Compositions, who shares her experience on finding and hiring BD pros to fuel sustainable growth in federal contracting. In just 30 minutes, you’ll get insights on: Five signs it’s time to hire BD help Top qualities to look for in candidates Key red flags during interviews FAQ’s to make confident hiring decisions This session is packed with tips that can help mid-level businesses like yours make the right hire and lower the risk of a bad fit. Whether you're ready to expand your team or just starting to think about it, this is a must-watch for GovCon growth. Watch the on-demand video to get your BD hiring game plan! https://zurl.co/EzQx #BDhiringplan #sustainablegrowth #federalcontracting #winmorefederalcontracts

3

GovConCon #29 - Who is really in charge of the requirements? #GovConCon #governmentcontractingconversation #govcon #govevernmentcontracting #federalprocurement #federalacquisition #contractingofficer #programmanager #businessdevelopment #bd #30secsbd #CEOsGuide #smallbusiness #8a #8asmallbusiness

18

Finally, some potential relief for SMBs preparing for CMMC compliance and budgeting for the associated costs. The DoD and Congress are evaluating a proposed tax credit aimed at easing the financial burden of CMMC compliance for small businesses. The initiative, outlined in the draft legislation titled the “Small Business Cybersecurity Act of 2024,” seeks to provide a tax credit of up to $50,000 for companies with 50 or fewer employees. The credit is designed to help small businesses offset the costs associated with CMMC assessments, which include third-party evaluation fees and the expenses of remediating any cybersecurity gaps identified during the certification process. The proposed credit targets small businesses—defined as those with fewer than 50 employees—making it particularly impactful for companies in the defense industrial base (DIB) that face significant challenges in meeting CMMC standards due to resource constraints. The DoD strongly supports this initiative as part of its efforts to bolster the cybersecurity posture of the DIB. By reducing compliance costs, the tax credit could encourage greater participation from small businesses in defense contracting while strengthening the overall security of the supply chain. #cmmc #govcon https://lnkd.in/eveGvFfs

17

3 Comments

Higgins Solutions LLC Navigating the maze of Capture Management in the Federal Government sector! 🗺️ It's a thrilling journey of understanding customer requirements, developing winning strategies, and securing key contracts. 📑💼 Here's to building bridges and creating value! #CaptureManagement #FederalGovernment #StrategyIsKey 🎯🔐

14

Attention GovCon Capture and Business Development Leaders! 🚀 Making the right bid/no-bid decisions is crucial for maintaining a quality pipeline filled with opportunities you are more likely to win. 💙Blue Team Reviews are essential in this process, ensuring alignment with strategic goals and maximizing proposal success. But how can you make this process more efficient and effective? Did you know? • 81% of organizations are looking for better opportunity identification to target high-potential bids. • 71% of organizations are seeking improved teaming partner strategies to strengthen their proposals. • 67% of organizations struggle to gain insights on their company’s capabilities and past performance compared to potential opportunities. Enter ProposalQuickStart.com – your AI-vector technologies powered partner in proposal excellence. Here are five ways ProposalQuickStart.com transforms Blue Team Reviews and why it matters: 1. Comprehensive Document Insight 📄 • Impact: Provides deep analysis of RFP documents, highlighting critical information and requirements. • Why It Matters: Ensures your bid/no-bid decisions are based on thorough understanding of the RFP, aligning your strategy with customer needs. 2. Automated Compliance Checks ✅ • Impact: The Requirement Cross Reference Compliance Matrix automatically maps RFP requirements to your proposal content. • Why It Matters: Reduces the risk of non-compliance early in the decision-making process, ensuring that only compliant opportunities are pursued. 3. Customizable Reports 📊 • Impact: Generates tailored reports that provide strategic insights into technical solutions and competitive landscapes. • Why It Matters: Enhances decision-making by offering clear, actionable insights, helping you choose opportunities where you have a competitive advantage. 4. Targeted Resume Analysis 📝 • Impact: Quickly filters resumes for specific certifications or security clearances. • Why It Matters: Ensures you can staff proposals with the most qualified personnel, strengthening your bid with top talent. 5. Insightful RFP Hot Buttons 🔥 • Impact: Identifies key customer issues and motivators that should be highlighted in your proposal. • Why It Matters: Helps you craft compelling win themes and value propositions, increasing your chances of winning selected opportunities. By leveraging ProposalQuickStart.com, you can streamline your Blue Team Review process, make more informed bid/no-bid decisions, and significantly improve your win rates. Don’t let inefficiencies hold you back – empower your team with the tools they need to succeed. Ready to transform your proposal process? Request a demo of ProposalQuickStart.com today and see the difference for yourself! #GovCon #BusinessDevelopment #CaptureManagement #ProposalManagement #AI #Technology #GovConSuccess #BlueTeamReviews #ProposalQuickStart

3

Based on this report, can the DoD, IC, and contractors that support them afford to ignore closing data skill gaps? Of course not! In a pilot that FedLearn ran within the DoD, users didn't know how to use Excel for data analysis and visualization practical exercises. That is an example of the problem. FedLearn

3