The Contracting Experience

This episode of The Contracting Experience welcomes Tom Wells, a retired member of the Senior Executive Service with over 35 years of Air Force acquisition-related experience. Wells has held positions such as Director of Contracting, Air Force Materiel Command (AFMC) and Director, 711 Human Performance Wing. He currently serves as Vice President and Senior Associate at Dayton Aerospace, providing senior-level support and acquisition training for government and industry professionals. In this episode, Wells shares his experiences and insights, walking listeners through his 12 enduring principles for contracting professionals - principles that remain as relevant today as when he first penned them in 1995. Wells shares real-world examples and war stories to illustrate the importance of each principle. He emphasizes the need to "never forget the requirement," advocating for speed, agility, and innovation in defense acquisition. He discusses the benefits of open communication with industry, while stressing fairness to all potential offerors. He cautions against vague language in contracts, highlighting the importance of clarity to avoid disputes. Wells also touches on risk assessment, the value of small businesses, and the criticality of obligating funds properly. Throughout the episode, he shares actionable advice for both government and industry professionals. Tune in to gain valuable insights from a seasoned acquisition leader. Discover the enduring wisdom of Wells's 12 principles and learn how to apply them to navigate the complexities of government contracting. Resources Mentioned: • Dayton Aerospace Defense Acquisition Library: https://www.daytonaero.com/dod-defense-acquisition-library. Contains 172+ free documents, guides, formats, and reports in the following categories: Acquisition Planning, Contract Management, Cost Estimating / Pricing, Engineering, Product Support, Program Management, Reports / Analysis, and Test & Evaluation. • NCMA Articles (Available in the Dayton Aerospace Library): o Enduring Contract Principles for Government Buyers o Price Analysis – The Rules and the Art o Market Research - A Powerful Pricing Tool • Office of Federal Procurement Policy (OFPP) Myth-Busting Memoranda • The Contracting Experience - Episode #58 (Wells's previous episode) • "Competitive Strategies for Systems Acquisition and Lifecycle Management" (book co-authored by Wells) If you would like to share feedback on the podcast, please submit via thecontractingexperience@gmail.com. ***This podcast episode and the mention of non-federal entities does not constitute or imply official endorsement on behalf of the U.S. Department of the Air Force or Department of Defense. The Department of the Air Force does not endorse any non-federal entities, companies, products, or services. The views expressed within this podcast are those of the host and guests and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of the Department of the Air Force, the Department of Defense, or the U.S. government.*** Register at https://www.dvidshub.net/ to access transcripts of the podcast.

This episode of The Contracting Experience explores the world of Other Transaction Authorities (OTAs) and their role in driving innovation within the Department of Defense. Host Rob Lorton speaks with Tim Greeff, President and Founder of the National Security Technology Accelerator (NSTXL), and Matt Summers, an agreements/contracting officer at the Naval Surface Warfare Center, Crane Division. They delve into the history, present, and future of OTAs, with a focus on the Strategic & Spectrum Missions Advanced Resilient Trusted Systems (S2MARTS) program, managed by NSTXL in partnership with Navy Crane. Tim and Matt discuss the evolution of OTAs as a procurement mechanism, highlighting the initial challenges and the strategies that have led to their widespread adoption. They explore the essential elements of successful public-private partnerships in the context of OTAs, and how to bridge the gap between government and industry needs. The episode also examines how NSTXL actively recruits and retains innovative companies, particularly those new to working with the DoD, and how their intellectual property is protected. Matt addresses common misconceptions about working with OTAs from a government perspective and shares how processes are being streamlined to encourage participation from small businesses and non-traditional contractors. Tune in to gain insights into the benefits of OTAs, including increased speed and flexibility compared to traditional contracting methods, while maintaining compliance, accountability, and responsible stewardship of taxpayer dollars. Specific examples of successful projects stemming from the S2MARTS OTA are shared, along with lessons learned that can be applied to future initiatives. The episode concludes with Tim and Matt sharing their perspectives on the future of OTAs in the next 5-10 years, highlighting both the opportunities and challenges that lie ahead. ***This podcast episode and the mention of non-federal entities does not constitute or imply official endorsement on behalf of the U.S. Department of the Air Force or Department of Defense. The Department of the Air Force does not endorse any non-federal entities, companies, products, or services. The views expressed within this podcast are those of the host and guests and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of the Department of the Air Force, the Department of Defense, or the U.S. government. If you would like to share feedback on the podcast, please submit via thecontractingexperience@gmail.com. Register at https://www.dvidshub.net/ to access transcripts of the podcast.

This special episode of The Contracting Experience bids farewell to Maj. Gen. Alice Trevino, Deputy Assistant Secretary for Contracting, Office of the Assistant Secretary of the Air Force for Acquisition, Technology and Logistics. Trevino reflects on her accomplishments, particularly her focus on alignment, prioritization, and simplification, and shares insights on empowering contracting professionals by giving them a seat at the table. She stresses the importance of integration across the Air Force and Space Force and expresses her confidence in her successor, Brig. Gen. Lance French. Trevino shares invaluable life lessons, including a story about not getting her "dream job" and how that ultimately led to even better opportunities. She emphasizes the importance of flexibility, decision space, and maintaining an open mind in the face of change. She also offers parting words of wisdom, urging listeners to "THINK" before acting – ensuring their actions are True, Helpful, Inspiring, Necessary, and Kind. Tune in to hear Trevino's reflections on her career, her advice for the next generation of contracting professionals, and her plans for retirement. Discover the insights and experiences that shaped her leadership and left a lasting legacy on the Air Force contracting community. If you would like to share feedback on the podcast, please submit via thecontractingexperience@gmail.com. Register at https://www.dvidshub.net/ to access transcripts of the podcast.

This episode of The Contracting Experience dives into the evolving landscape of data utilization within the Air Force, featuring Jon McGugin from the Air Force Materiel Command's Contracting Digital Division and Teresa Frank, the Cost and Economics Division Chief in AFMC's Financial Management Directorate. Jon and Teresa explore the advancements of the Contract Data Specialist position, building on its introduction in Episode #47, and discuss the parallel development of similar data-focused roles in the financial management community. They highlight the strategic importance of leveraging acquisition data for data-driven decisions and discuss the training initiatives supporting these roles. They also touch upon the collaborative spirit fostered through initiatives like the Financial Management Data Analytics Steering Group. The conversation focuses on how data and technology drive efficiency and improve decision-making. The success of the ULO tool within PMRT showcases linking contracting and finance data. Jon highlights the role of the Digital Acquisition Tools Environment in showcasing and sharing digital tools. They also discuss leveraging NIPRGPT, AcqBot, and the Contracting Robotic Process Automation Bot Warehouse. Tune in to discover how the Contract Data Specialist and Financial Data Analytics initiatives are reshaping the Air Force's approach to acquisition and financial management. Learn how these data-driven strategies are empowering the workforce, streamlining processes, and ultimately, contributing to a more effective and efficient Air Force. The episode also explores the innovative tools and technologies being leveraged, including AI and RPA, and offers insights into how these advancements are paving the way for a digital transformation across the entire Department of the Air Force. Digital Tools and Resources (CAC Required): PMRT: Project Management Resource Tools https://pmrt.cce.af.mil/portal/login Home of PKnowledge Board, ULO Tool, AFBIT, and more! ULO – Unliquidated Obligations AFBIT – Air Force Business Intelligence Tool DATE: Digital Acquisition Tools Environment https://usaf.dps.mil/sites/AFCC/Centralized_Tools/Lists/Existing%20Tools/NewAll.aspx Robotic Process Automation (RPA) Warehouse https://usaf.dps.mil/teams/AFMC-Contracting/PK/SitePages/RPA.aspx NIPRgpt - https://niprgpt.mil/ AcqBot - https://acqbot.niprgpt.mil/ If you would like to share feedback on the podcast, please submit via thecontractingexperience@gmail.com. Register at https://www.dvidshub.net/ to access transcripts of the podcast.

In this second installment of our conversation with Alexis Bonnell, we explore more practical applications of AI for the acquisition workforce. In this episode, Bonnell demystifies the concept of "prompt engineering," explaining how crafting effective questions is crucial to getting the most out of AI tools. We also get an inside look at AcqBot, AFRL's AI-powered contract writing assistant. Bonnell discusses how this tool is designed to honor and respect the expertise of acquisition professionals, serving as a collaborative partner to streamline the contract development process. Finally, Bonnell tackles the challenge of information overload, a reality for everyone in today's fast-paced world. She explains how AI can help us make sense of the massive amount of data we encounter daily, leading to better and faster decision-making. Tune in for insights on how to embrace AI and leverage its power to navigate the complexities of Air Force acquisition.

The Contracting Experience - Episode 66

In this episode of The Contracting Experience, we sit down with Elizabeth Midkiff and Kori McNabb from the Secretary of the Air Force/Acquisition Policy Division, and Brittany Harris from the Air Force Installation Contracting Center, to discuss the new Commercial Solutions Opening (CSO) Center of Excellence within the Acquisition Toolbox on Air Force Contracting Central. The CSO Center of Excellence is a one-stop shop for resources and guidance on using CSOs, a solicitation method that allows companies to propose innovative, commercial solutions to meet mission requirements or fill capability gaps. Our guests share their insights and experiences with CSOs, including success stories and best practices, and walk us through the resources available in the Center of Excellence. Tune in to learn about the benefits of using CSOs, and how the CSO Center of Excellence can help acquisition teams navigate the process and obtain valuable resources and guidance to get the most out of this innovative solicitation method. The conversation also touches on topics such as industry engagement, pricing, and the future of CSOs in the Air Force and Department of Defense. The CSO Center of Excellence provides a wealth of resources, including template and example documents, best practices and lessons learned, and a team spotlight section that highlights successful CSO implementations. Our guests also discuss the importance of education and training in increasing the use of CSOs and share their vision for the future of the Center of Excellence. CSO – Commercial Solutions Opening CoE – Center of Excellence SAF/AQCP - Secretary of the Air Force/Acquisition Policy Division AFICC - Air Force Installation Contracting Center CAC - Common Access Card R&D - Research and Development FAR - Federal Acquisition Regulation If you would like to share feedback on the podcast, please submit via thecontractingexperience@gmail.com. Register at https://www.dvidshub.net/ to access transcripts of the podcast.

In this episode, we partner with the Small Business Directorate, Air Force Materiel Command, and welcome our Small Business Co-Host, Marcy Bain, as we interview Francine Morris, Director of Government Contracting, Small Business Administration. Morris helps us understand the basics of our small business programs, SBA resources available to both the government and small businesses, and the type of work that she is doing every day in her role to help all in the acquisition world meet our mission while also encouraging maximum opportunity for small businesses. Tune in to learn about the Small Business Administration, the various small business programs, the streamlined certification process for small businesses, some myth-busting, and a plethora of resources available for both government and small businesses. SBA – Small Business Administration DoD – Department of Defense AFICC – Air Force Installation Contracting Center PCR – Procurement Center Representatives CMR – Commercial Market Representatives HubZone – Historically Underutilized Business Zone 8(a) Business Development Program- Federal contracting and training program for experienced small business owners who are socially and economically disadvantaged RFP – Request for Proposal RFI – Request for Information SOW – Statement of Work PWS – Performance Work Statement SBIR – Small Business Innovation Research GDP – Gross Domestic Product Additional SBA Resources: 1. SBA Website: https://www.sba.gov/ Includes market research and competitive advantage tips, writing business plans, calculating start up cost, and a road map to launching your business. 2. SCORE Business Mentoring: Connect with an expert through the nation's largest network of small business mentors. https://www.sba.gov/local-assistance/resource-partners/score-business-mentoring 3. Office of Small Business Development Centers: The Office of Small Business Development Centers promotes entrepreneurship and small business growth through its national network of centers. https://www.sba.gov/about-sba/sba-locations/headquarters-offices/office-small-business-development-centers 4. APEX Accelerators: APEX Accelerators (formerly known as Procurement Technical Assistance Centers) provide technical assistance to businesses interested in selling products or services to federal, state, and local governments. https://www.sba.gov/local-assistance/federal-contracting-assistance#id-apex-accelerators 5. First Wednesday Training for federal and DoD contracting and program offices personnel, which will provide education on the latest SBA programs, which is crucial in disseminating information and regulatory guidance to prospective small businesses that are desired to do business with the federal government. POC: Darryl.Williams@sba.gov If you would like to share feedback on the podcast, please submit via thecontractingexperience@gmail.com. Register at https://www.dvidshub.net/ to access transcripts of the podcast.

In this episode, we sit down with Sara Leslie and Nate Armstrong, Co-Chairs of the CHANGE organization at Wright-Patterson Air Force Base, Ohio, as well as Josh Beitel, one of the advisors to the organization. They share their insights and experiences leading the organization and discuss the benefits and opportunities that CHANGE provides to contracting trainees. The conversation covers a range of topics, including the organization's activities, such as networking events, community service and professional development opportunities. Our guests also share their thoughts on the importance of feedback, leadership development and employee retention in the contracting workforce. Tune in to learn about the CHANGE organization, its mission and goals, and the importance of community and connection in the contracting workforce. The conversation also touches on topics such as employee retention, feedback and leadership development. CHANGE - The Community Helping through Action and Networking toward the Greatness of our Environment. AFLCMC – Air Force Life Cycle Management Center PKX – Human Resources Division ***This podcast episode and the mention of non-federal entities does not constitute or imply official endorsement on behalf of the U.S. Department of the Air Force or Department of Defense. The Department of the Air Force does not endorse any non-federal entities, companies, products, or services. The views expressed within this podcast are those of the host and guests and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of the Department of the Air Force, the Department of Defense, or the U.S. government.

In this episode of The Contracting Experience, we are joined by Tony Everidge, Executive Director, Air Force Installation Contracting Center, Wright-Patterson Air Force Base, Ohio, where he helps lead a team of over 750 acquisition professionals who manage a $55 billion contract portfolio. Tune in as Everidge shares his insights, drawing on his days of playing collegiate and semi-professional basketball. He discusses how those experiences taught him valuable life lessons—like teamwork, commitment, and accountability—that have helped shape his professional career. Everidge demonstrates that contracting truly is a team sport by using various sports analogies to demonstrate the importance of teamwork, accountability, feedback, personal development, game-planning, resilience, and collaboration in government contracting. This episode is packed with actionable advice for contracting professionals looking to enhance their approach to teamwork and accountability. Don't miss Everidge's "halftime speech" at the end of the episode, where he rallies contracting professionals to stay motivated and committed to the mission, regardless of their role in the larger Air Force team. AFICC – Air Force Installation Contracting Center If you would like to share feedback on the podcast, please submit via thecontractingexperience@gmail.com. Register at https://www.dvidshub.net/ to access transcripts of the podcast.

In this episode, we are joined by Capt. Ariel Parker and Senior Master Sgt. Ryan Ledford, two Air Force contracting professionals fresh off their fellowships in the Education with Industry (EWI) program. Parker and Ledford discuss their impactful experiences working with a start-up company and a non-profit tech accelerator. They offer insights into how their time with industry can benefit contracting professionals and provide practical lessons that listeners can apply in their daily work. Tune in to hear how Parker and Ledford plan to implement these lessons in their respective roles and how they aim to be agents of change within the Air Force contracting community. This episode offers valuable takeaways for any acquisition professional looking to strengthen their collaboration with industry and improve their contracting strategies. ***This podcast episode and the mention of non-federal entities does not constitute or imply official endorsement on behalf of the U.S. Department of the Air Force or Department of Defense. The Department of the Air Force does not endorse any non-federal entities, companies, products, or services. The views expressed within this podcast are those of the host and guests and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of the Department of the Air Force, the Department of Defense, or the U.S. government. EWI – Education with Industry Anduril – Anduril Industries CCTI – The Catalyst Campus for Technology & Innovation AFI 36-2639 – Air Force Instruction for Education with Industry If you would like to share feedback on the podcast, please submit via thecontractingexperience@gmail.com. Register at https://www.dvidshub.net/ to access transcripts of the podcast.

In this episode of The Contracting Experience, we welcome Maj. Gen. Alice Trevino, Deputy Assistant Secretary for Contracting, Office of the Assistant Secretary of the Air Force for Acquisition, Technology, and Logistics. Trevino provides valuable updates on the 2024 Department of the Air Force Contracting Flight Plan, focusing on key accomplishments, challenges, and future objectives. She also discusses the Great Power Competition and Air Force re-optimization efforts, including the introduction of the new Integrating Senior Contracting Official role. In addition to these updates, Trevino offers a glimpse into her day-to-day life at the Pentagon, shares leadership lessons, and participates in a fun lightning-round question and answer to close out the conversation. Tune in for insightful discussions on the future of DAF contracting, as well as an inspiring look into the life of a two-star general. I-SCO – Integrating Senior Contracting Official IDO – Integration Development Office GPC – Great Power Competition DAF – Department of the Air Force LOE – Lines of Effort KR – Key Results SES – Senior Executive Service DATE – Digital Acquisition Tools Environment on Air Force Contracting Central ULO – Unliquidated Obligations BIZINT – Business Intelligence Application available via the Digital Acquisition Tools Environment (DATE) on Air Force Contracting Central If you would like to share feedback on the podcast, please submit via thecontractingexperience@gmail.com. Register at https://www.dvidshub.net/ to access transcripts of the podcast.

In this episode, we welcome two guests to highlight the benefits and importance of the AbilityOne Program. Marine Corps veteran and outreach coordinator Jason Michaelsen shares his experiences, struggles, and successes through the AbilityOne Program, offering a heartfelt, uplifting, and motivating testimonial. Jason's story, recently applauded at the DoD Procure-to-Pay Symposium, underscores the transformative impact of the program. Joining him is Roger Westermyer, Technical Director and AbilityOne Representative for the Air Force Installation Contracting Center. Roger demystifies the AbilityOne Program, explaining its purpose, benefits, and dispelling some common myths. Together, they discuss the program's role in tapping America’s underutilized workforce, providing unique opportunities, and enhancing the business side of contracting. Tune in to learn how contracting professionals can effectively engage with AbilityOne and make a significant difference in people's lives. Additional AbilityOne Resources: 1. The U.S. AbilityOne Commission maintains a Procurement List of thousands of AbilityOne products which must be purchased from an AbilityOne vendor. This list is maintained at https://www.abilityone.gov/procurement_list/index.html. 2. To discuss potential opportunities for AbilityOne, please reach out to opportunity@abilityone.org If you would like to share feedback on the podcast, please submit via thecontractingexperience@gmail.com. Register at https://www.dvidshub.net/ to access transcripts of the podcast.

In this episode of The Contracting Experience, we sit down with Tom Wells, a retired member of the Senior Executive Service with over 35 years of Air Force acquisition experience. Wells has held positions such as Director of Contracting, Air Force Materiel Command, and Director, 711th Human Performance Wing, Air Force Research Laboratory. Currently, he serves as Vice President and Senior Associate at Dayton Aerospace, providing senior-level support and acquisition training for both government and industry professionals. Wells shares his insights from both sides of the negotiation table and offers a glimpse into his training methods that promote win-win arrangements. He discusses the evolution of government acquisition, the importance of strategic thinking over individual credit, and the mutual understanding needed between government and industry. He also emphasizes the value of professional organizations like the National Contract Management Association and addresses the true meaning of the phrase, "good enough for government work." Tune in for an engaging and insightful conversation. AFMC: Air Force Materiel Command CFCM: Certified Federal Contract Manager NCMA: National Contract Management Association If you would like to share feedback on the podcast, please submit via thecontractingexperience@gmail.com. Register at https://www.dvidshub.net/ to access transcripts of the podcast.

In this episode, we sit down with Special Agent Chris Graham, Director of Operations, Procurement Fraud Detachment, Air Force Office of Special Investigation, Wright-Patterson Air Force Base, Ohio. Special Agent Graham discusses the history and mission of AFOSI, his role in investigating procurement fraud, and the daily life of a Special Agent. He talks about "finding the lie" and "following the money," as well as the Procurement Fraud Triangle, which consists of pressure, rationalization, and opportunity—three elements that often comprise the psychology of a fraudster. He also shares insights into the collaboration between AFOSI and the contracting community, emphasizing the importance of cybersecurity and data protection. Tune in to hear real-life examples of fraud cases and learn how contracting professionals play a vital role in safeguarding critical resources. If you would like to share feedback on the podcast, please submit via thecontractingexperience@gmail.com. Register at https://www.dvidshub.net/ to access transcripts of the podcast.

This episode of The Contracting Experience features Shane Boulware, Program Manager, for Airborne Warning and Control System E-3 Modernization Branch, Hanscom Air Force Base. In addition to his full-time civilian job, Boulware is also a reservist in the contracting career field at the Defense Contract Management Agency, National Capital Region. Boulware offers insights into the similarities and differences between the two career fields and emphasizes the importance of their collaboration for mission success. Additionally, he talks about the critical nature of teamwork and communication between program managers and contracting professionals, illustrating how joint efforts drive innovation and efficiency in defense projects. Acronyms: AAF – Adaptive Acquisition Framework AFLCMC – Air Force Life Cycle Management Center AFFARS – Air Force Federal Acquisition Regulation Supplement AWACS – Airborne Warning and Control System CO – Contracting Officer DFARS – Defense Federal Acquisition Regulation Supplement FAR – Federal Acquisition Regulation FM – Financial Management JA – Judge Advocate PGI – Procedures, Guidance, and Information PM – Program Management If you would like to share feedback on the podcast, please submit via thecontractingexperience@gmail.com. Register at https://www.dvidshub.net/ to access transcripts of the podcast.

This episode of The Contracting Experience features a discussion with Robin Harrah, the new Contracting Technical Director at the Air Force Materiel Command. Harrah discusses her previous contracting assignments and explains her new role as the Technical Director. As the former Chief of Contracts for Special Projects, Harrah shares her passion for working in the vault and clarifies several misperceptions about working in a controlled environment. Harrah also offers some solid career advice for contracting professionals, regardless of the current stage of their career. Acronyms: AFMC – Air Force Materiel Command AFRL – Air Force Research Laboratory ASC – Aeronautical Systems Center CLP – Continuous Learning Point CONS – Contracting Squadron DAF – Department of the Air Force ELDP – Executive Leadership Development Program FIAR – Financial Improvement and Audit Readiness GFP – Government Furnished Property PCO – Procurement Contracting Officer PME – Professional Military Education TD – Technical Director If you would like to share feedback on the podcast, please submit via thecontractingexperience@gmail.com. Register at https://www.dvidshub.net/ to access transcripts of the podcast.

This episode of The Contracting Experience focuses on artificial Intelligence with guest Lt. Col. Dan Finkenstadt, an officer in the Air Force Contracting Force Development division. Finkenstadt holds a PhD from UNC Chapel Hill and served as a professor at the Naval Post Graduate School for the three years. In this episode, Finkenstadt describes the relationships between Artificial Intelligence, Bots, Machine Learning and Large Language Models while offering use cases, benefits, and risks for Air Force contracting. He also speaks about his role in the DAF Contracting Flight Plan where he is leading a team to foster AI education and training across the contracting workforce Acronyms: AI – Artificial Intelligence ML – Machine Learning LLM – Large Language Model DAF – Department of the Air Force CDAO – Chief Digital and Artificial Intelligence Office SAF/AQCX – Air Force Contracting Force Development SAF/CN – Air Force Chief Information Officer If you would like to share feedback on the podcast, please submit via thecontractingexperience@gmail.com. Register at https://www.dvidshub.net/ to access transcripts of the podcast.

In this episode of The Contracting Experience podcast we sit down with Head of Air Force Contracting, Maj. Gen .Alice Trevino. Trevino talks about the Great Power Competition and what contracting’s role will be in optimizing the Air Force towards this mission. She also addresses where we are going with digital transformation in Air Force Acquisition and some of the top initiatives contracting professionals can get involved with in 2024. Trevino also advises the workforce on her top areas to focus on as we optimize for the Great Power Competition. Acronyms: AF CIO – Air Force Chief Information Officer SAF/CN – Air Force Office of the Chief Information Officer ATO – Authority to Operate LOE – Line of Effort AI – Artificial Intelligence SBIR – Small Business Innovation Research AETC – Air Education and Training Command GSA – General Services Administration If you would like to share feedback on the podcast, please submit via thecontractingexperience@gmail.com. Register at https://www.dvidshub.net/ to access transcripts of the podcast.

In this episode, we sit down with Capt. Alicia Binggeli, Heather Carino, and Capt. Oleksandr Bakuta who are Air Force contracting professionals who have completed Education with Industry (EWI) fellowships. Alicia, Heather, and Oleksandr share their experiences working with 8VC, SpaceX, and Intel Capital. They each discuss what they found impactful during their EWI fellowships as well as how contracting professionals can start applying their lessons learned today. Acronyms: EWI – Education with Industry I2I – Insights to Industry RFP – Request for Proposal RFI – Request for Information DAU – Defense Acquisition University NSIN – National Security Innovation Network VC – Venture Capital If you would like to share feedback on the podcast, please submit via thecontractingexperience@gmail.com. Register at https://www.dvidshub.net/ to access transcripts of the podcast.