Mac Curtis

Heads Up...DoD News related to Architect - Engineering (AE) Services! (1) FINAL RULE Effective 8/26/2024 - DFARS Case 2024-D019 Architect and Engineering Service Fees. This rule changes DFARS to implement Section 2881 of the FY24 NDAA to increase the limitation of the contract price (i.e., "fee") for A-E services for the preparation and delivery of designs, plans, drawings, and specifications from 6% of the project's estimated construction cost to 10%. It is applicable to Army, Navy, and Air Force projects (references in 10 U.S.C. 7540,8612, and 9540). The new 10% limit replaces the 6% fee limitation on contract modifications for work not initially included in the contract and redesign, and applies only to that portion of the contract (or modification) price attributable to the preparation of designs, plans, drawings, and specifications. If a contract or modification also includes other services, the part of the price attributable to the other services is not subject to the fee limitation. (Personally, I've been waiting since the early 1990's for this percentage to change (and yes, I've been doing this THAT long). This makes it easier for small AE businesses to participate in the Federal space. So, YEA!) Permalink: https://lnkd.in/g7vF95R6 (2) PROPOSED RULE Comments due 9/27/2024 -- DFARS Case 2023-D007 Task Order and Delivery Order Contracting for Architectural and Engineering Services. This rules proposes a corresponding change to DFARS Subpart 216.5, Indefinite-Delivery Contracts, to require DoD Contracting Officers (KOs) to use qualification-based selections when awarding task orders and delivery orders for AE services that was previously implemented procedurally under FAR Subparts 16.500, 16.505, and 36.6 procedures in 2005 under the final rule for FAR Case 2004-001 Improvements in Contracting for Architect-Engineer Services. This proposed rule adds DoD-specific statutory guidance (10 U.S.C. 3406(h)(2)) to DFARS directing KOs not to request additional info regarding qualifications unless necessary to determine qualifications for a particular task order or delivery order under a multiple-award contract. There should be little to no impact from this proposed rule since there are no procedural changes, new clauses or provisions, and no new applicability in terms of thresholds or types of contracts. Permalink: https://lnkd.in/gwh2_38J

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As 2024 wraps up, federal agencies are setting the stage for 2025 with transformative IT strategies. From AI to health IT, this Deep Dive covers how tech is driving mission success. Download now!

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In a move to streamline technology transitions, Heidi Shyu, Under Secretary of Defense for Research and Engineering, has inaugurated the Transition Tracking Action Group (TTAG). This advisory body, established March 13, is set to harness advanced data analytics to track how the Department of Defense (DoD) delivers capabilities to the field. Chaired by the R&E's chief data officer, Cyrus Jabbari, and comprising senior representatives from the military services and offices under the Secretary of Defense, TTAG aims to improve the visibility and management of the DoD's technology transition processes. The goal of this initiative seeks to ensure the timely and cost-effective delivery of state-of-the-art systems and equipment to military personnel. To do this, the department will seek understand what the primary obstacles to transition are and if the measures it undertakes to improve outcomes are yielding desired effects. The TTAG will create a department-wide method to track technology transition and determine the reasons capability-enhancing technologies do or do not transition, to enable the Joint Force to deter and, if necessary, prevail in contested environments.

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DoD rule-makers have been busy with proposed rules for DFARS. Those of you with a NAICS code that begins with 5416--management, scientific, and technical consulting services NAICS--will want to pay attention to this first rule in particular... Preventing Conflicts of Interest for Certain Consulting Services (DFARS Case 2024-D007) - Proposes amending DFARS to-- ▶ implement Section 812 of the FY24 NDAA which prohibits DoD from awarding contracts assigned a North American Industry Classification System (NAICS) code beginning with 5416 to offerors who hold contracts that involve consulting services with certain covered foreign entities. ▶ add a new solicitation provision in which an offeror certifies whether the offeror, its subsidiaries, or affiliates hold a contract for consulting services with one or more covered foreign entities and whether the offeror maintains a conflict-of-interest mitigation plan that meets certain requirements. ▶ requires that if the offeror, its subsidiaries, or affiliates hold such a contract and the offeror is selected for award, the offeror may submit its existing conflict-of-interest mitigation plan, which will be incorporated into a contract resulting from the solicitation. The provision is prescribed for use in solicitations assigned a NAICS code beginning with 5416 that involve consulting services. (https://lnkd.in/gCdMD7D4) DoD Cost or Pricing Data Reporting Requirements (DFARS Case 2022-D004) - Would amend DFARS to-- ▶ require offerors to submit data other than certified cost or pricing data upon contracting officer request. ▶  establish a $2 million threshold for the Truthful Cost or Pricing Data statute requirements with respect to contract modifications, subcontracts, and modifications to subcontracts.  ▶ require that contract modifications to reflect the revised threshold be executed “as soon as practicable.” The proposed rule implements these changes via several proposed new clauses. (https://lnkd.in/gfNcW2rR) Public Access to Results of Federally Funded Research (DFARS Case 2020-D028) - Proposes two new clauses that require contractors with contracts that include fundamental research to develop and maintain a data management plan and to submit final peer-reviewed manuscripts to the Defense Technical Information Center’s publicly accessible repository. (https://lnkd.in/g7bDcij6) Comments for all proposed rules are due on 11/25/2024. Instructions to comment are found at each permalink.

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Great article coming out of coverage at Space Symposium last week discussing the recently released DoD Commercial Space Integration Strategy and the benefits and challenges of government and commercial space industry working together. #CyberSatSummit dives into this critical discussion in November and tackles the all important information sharing topic as well. Interested in learning more about CyberSat, find out here: https://lnkd.in/emfraRRn DM me if interested in speaking/sponsoring or if you'd like to learn more. #spaceindustry #cybersecurity #informationsharing https://lnkd.in/eNNvAbiP

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“From Challenges to Contracts: Securing Partnerships Starts at R&D” 🔧 High-value partnerships don’t happen by accident; they’re built early—right at the R&D stage. When I led projects with aerospace giants, like Honeywell, Lockheed, and NASA. The key was engaging from the first concept meeting. Why? Because bringing a vision to the customer early means aligning solutions with their evolving needs and positioning your expertise as part of the solution from day one. Success is about foresight. Show up early, bring value, and watch challenges turn into contracts. 🤝 What’s your approach to winning high-value deals? #StrategicPartnerships #Innovation #engineering #Leadership

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Government Contracting #govcon seems to be a labyrinth 😕to many outsiders and newer folks coming into the space. I once created an Access database🧮 at a previous employer many years ago to highlight the importance of good data management and common unique identifiers... As the company tended to have some byzantine processes and nomenclature that I was trying to flesh out and focus 🔍on measuring the things that matter. So I've seen quite a bit of diverse contracts from over $100M 💰annual jobs to ones under $100K. I believe the process is essentially the same to ensure a smooth transition from pre-award to 🥇post-award. It starts with being able to accurately code 🔣your contract into your system of record. Do your #proposal 📚and #pricing 💵documents match the contract award 📝documents? Check that before you 🖋sign! Had an experience recently where there was some ambiguity 😵with a contract modification document in what it was doing as it relates to the changes we proposed. Some contracts get complex when you get to a dozen mods or so with many CLINs, SLINs, and 🗜ARCNs... IYKYK We both had differing interpretations🗣 as we worked through the document. There was a 💪🏼challenge with all the moving parts and new CLINs added and old ones removed and it turns out that we both had the same initial confusion that it wasn't done correctly... However, when we dug ⛏deeper into the changes in Section B (contract values) and Section G (funding values) we determined that this customer was doing It's important to have a uniform 🥋methodology on how you read and review your contract documents before you sign it and book the funding and contract values in your accounting system. Set your books up right the first time, or you'll pay💸 for it over-and-over again each month. And get the right people 🤼 and departments involved! Make it a great week 👊🏼

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The Sentinel ICBM program's cost overruns highlight the need for integrated acquisition strategies that address both missile systems & infrastructure. CRG provides expertise in navigating these complex landscapes, aligning strategies with compliance & engaging stakeholders to ensure clients lead in delivering innovative, cost-effective defense solutions. CRG’s SME-Based Opportunities, INTERIM Advice & Differentiators: Opp - Holistic Acquisition Strategies: Prioritize a balanced approach that integrates missile systems w/ critical infrastructure. · Advice: Use digital engineering tools to simulate full system lifecycles, identifying cost drivers early. · Differentiator: CRG’s lifecycle cost analysis helps clients foresee risks, optimizing missile & infrastructure components. Opp - Open Competition for Infrastructure: Encourage competitive sourcing for infrastructure to drive innovation & cost reductions. · Advice: Advocate for modular design principles & open competition strategies for ground elements. ·   Differentiator: CRG connects clients with top-tier SMEs & suppliers for cost-effective, modular solutions. Opp - Agile Contracting Models: Use agile contracting to adapt to evolving program requirements. ·   Advice: Employ OTAs & phased contracts to incorporate new tech flexibly. ·   Differentiator: CRG’s contracting expertise balances innovation w/ compliance, speeding up project timelines. Opp - Advanced Cost Management: Employ predictive analytics for proactive cost control. ·   Advice: Use AI-driven forecasting to continuously monitor expenses & identify savings opportunities. ·   Differentiator: CRG’s cost optimization strategies ensure clients manage budgets effectively, avoiding overruns. Opp - Digital Twins Integration: Utilize digital twin tech for real-time insights into system performance. · Advice: Invest in digital twins for predictive maintenance & proactive lifecycle management. · Differentiator: CRG’s digital twin integration enhances system reliability & readiness. Opp - Collaborative Engineering: Foster government-industry collaboration to refine designs & address challenges. · Advice: Form IPTs to refine designs & address technical issues iteratively. ·   Differentiator: CRG’s collaborative approach ensures efficient, unified program outcomes. CRG’s expertise positions us as the partner of choice for defense contractors aiming to lead in the program. Engage with CRG to leverage these opportunities and drive your success in advancing national security. Connect at crgroupinc.com or contact@crgroupinc.com. #USAF #AirForce #DoD #Acquisition #MissileDefense #ICBM #CostManagement #InnovationInDefense #Engineering #Hardware #SDLC #Software #Procurement #NorthropGrumman #Boeing #LockheedMartin #Raytheon #GeneralDynamics #BAE #L3Harris #Leidos #Aerojet #Honeywell #Parsons #OrbitalATK #Kratos #Textron #Dynetics #SierraNevada #Teledyne #SAIC #Perspecta #JacobsEngineering #Bechtel #GeneralAtomics #CACI #ManTech #HII

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🛡️ Driving Innovation and Growth: Expanding the Defense Industrial Base 🚀 As we navigate an increasingly complex global landscape, the expansion of our defense industrial base is more crucial than ever. Strengthening our capabilities not only enhances national security but also drives innovation and economic growth. ✨ Why Expand? Expanding the defense industrial base fosters resilience against emerging threats, promotes technological advancement, and creates high-skilled jobs. It's about equipping our forces with cutting-edge capabilities while bolstering our industrial and innovation base. 🌐 Global Impact In a connected world, collaboration and strategic partnerships are key. By expanding our defense industrial base, we foster international cooperation, enhancing interoperability and strengthening alliances to address global security challenges collectively. 🔍 Opportunities Ahead From cybersecurity to advanced manufacturing, expanding the defense industrial base opens doors to new opportunities in technology development, research, and infrastructure investments. It fuels a cycle of innovation that benefits not only defense but also commercial sectors. 🤝 Collaboration is Key By fostering collaboration between government, industry leaders, and academia, we can drive forward-thinking initiatives that propel our defense capabilities into the future. It's about harnessing diverse expertise and resources to build a secure and prosperous future. At Ombra we embrace this pivotal moment to expand our defense industrial base, driving innovation, safeguarding our nation, and creating a resilient foundation for generations to come. Together, we can shape a stronger, more secure future. #DefenseIndustry #NationalSecurity #Innovation #EconomicGrowth #GlobalSecurity #Collaboration #TechnologyAdvancement #FutureReady

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Tribal businesses are poised to transform the U.S. economy, but access to capital remains a critical barrier. During our "Expanding Access to Capital in Indian Country" webinar, leaders Mahrinah Shije and Councilman Dillon Shije joined MBDA Deputy Under Secretary Eric Morrissette to discuss how investing in tribal digital economies can fuel growth, environmental innovation, and economic resilience. From expanding broadband to overcoming venture capital gaps, the conversation showed how Indian Country is ready to lead the charge. Watch the webinar and discover what’s next: https://lnkd.in/eb6g5Tvg #WeAreMBDA #NAHM

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By serving the federal government, the government contracting industry is typically recession resistant, but still not free from challenges. Aerospace, Defense and Government Services Industry Executive Ruth Ann Clark shares three areas for government contractors to be mindful of as they navigate growth in today's environment. Click through to read the article in the Washington Business Journal: https://bit.ly/45GeN9E

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You can learn a lot about how much a government agency values competition and innovation by looking at RFI and RFP due dates between Dec 24th and Jan 2nd. For example, a DoD agency issued a sole source notice late on Dec 29th with a 2-day turnaround—on New Year’s Eve. C’mon, man. Setting deadlines like this doesn’t just limit participation—it signals a lack of interest in finding diverse solutions to real problems. It feels more like checking the box than fostering competition or driving innovation.

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Mrs. Venice M. Goodwine, CISSP, PMP spoke at the Armed Forces Communications & Electronics Association (AFCEA International) Northern Virginia (NOVA) Air Forces IT Day held at the Renaissance Arlington Capital View Hotel, VA. AFCEA Air Force IT Day is a significant event bringing together members of the cyber and IT community across the DAF, industry, and academia. These professionals work to bridge the gap between the DAF’s operational needs and the technology offered by industry and academia. The event’s main theme was “Intersection of Readiness and Mission: Getting it Right in a Great Power Competition.” Mrs. Goodwine discussed several key topics on her panel with Michael Black, Vice President, AFCEA including the DAF CIO’s 6 LOEs (cloud adoption, cybersecurity, workforce, portfolio management, information technology & mission enabling services, and data & artificial intelligence), the recent WOTS graduation, and upcoming DAF-wide capability advancements. Mrs. Goodwine concluded her panel by emphasizing that cybersecurity and data & AI will be at the forefront of her office’s priorities over the next six months. For more information on AFCEA, check out this link: https://www.afcea.org/ #TeamWork #Cybersecurity #IT #Data #AI #USAF #LOEs #GPC #CloudAdoption

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Interested in how to protect aircraft, drones, and other autonomous vehicles from cyber threats? Come join us next week for a webinar, as part of MassDOT’s Aeronautics Division events for the Federal Aviation Administration's Safety Day. This won’t be a dry session focusing on IT—we’ll be talking about threats posed against all manner of transportation technologies, and the systems mindset that will enable us to catalyze safe and secure economic activity in the future. Questions? Want to talk about something specific? DM me and let’s chat!

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