Veterans Affairs Acquisition Academy (VAAA)

This 1-day hands-on, interactive orientation is designed for contracting professionals new to the VA 1102 workforce. Students will gain an understanding of VA, the acquisition workforce, customer service, certification and professional development training, and available resources. This will assist in a smooth transition into the acquisition workforce, increased efficiency, and effectiveness as trusted business partners. This class is a VA specific offering required for FAC-C students enrolled in CON 091 and will be taken consecutively with the CON 091 offering.

This workshop will provide VA students an opportunity to apply the knowledge learned in CON 170 (FED). This application-based class provides a detailed understanding of how to make a determination of fair and reasonable pricing prior to contract award. Students will practice various pricing techniques by using case studies to review requirements and evaluate pricing for reasonableness. Contract pricing techniques are covered in-depth, including relevant VA policy, regulation, and example language. Dedicated time is set-a-side to discuss application of the Vets First Contracting Program. The VA Acquisition Academy will offer this 2-day course consecutively following an 8-day CON 170 offering. This course is to be taken in conjunction with completing CON 170 (FED).

NOTE: VA students should register for CON 170 and the consecutive offering of this course at the same time.

This course is a practical application workshop designed to reinforce basic contracting and contract writing system skills. This workshop will have students create/conduct example procurements utilizing simplified acquisition procedures. Contract vehicles to be utilized include purchase orders using FAR Part 12 and FAR Part 13 procedures and guidance.

This Foundational Learning for Contracting Professionals course will build the knowledge and skills to confidently communicate to various audiences in an efficient and effective manner.  It is designed for professionals who understand the basics of grammar and writing and who wish to make their writing more effective in achieving results.

Effective Writing for 1102s focuses on the professional competency of Written Communication identified in the FAI/DoD Contracting Competency Model.  Classroom discussions, exercises, assignments, case studies and other activities are specific to the contracting (1102) job series and designed to improve contracting professionals’ competence in this topic.

NOTE:  This course was previously named “Business Writing for 1102s” and contains many of the same learning objectives.

This Foundational Learning for Contracting Professionals course is designed to provide students with tools to improve interpersonal effectiveness.  In the classroom, students will cover the following topics:  communication strategies, power and influence, building productive networks, emotional intelligence, conflict and organizational politics, and managing difficult conversations.  Students will have the opportunity to explore and practice these interpersonal strategies to build productive networks and maximize professional collaborations.

Build Networks: Maximizing Your Relationships focuses on the professional competency of Interpersonal Skills identified in the FAI/DoD Contracting Competency Model.  Classroom discussions, exercises, assignments, case studies and other activities are specific to the contracting (1102) job series and designed to improve contracting professionals’ competence in this topic.

At the end of this session, participants will be able to:

• Explore tools to engage, influence, and manage others (with or without authority) to support effective collaborations.
• Practice building and maintaining productive networks and connections to increase contracting professional competence.
• Explore how increased emotional intelligence can support more personal and professional goals.
• Identify strategies to manage conflict, navigate organizational politics, and plan for difficult conversations.
• Explore ways to turn challenging relationships into valuable collaborations.
• Use interpersonal skills and I-CARE Values to manage and enhance contracting outcomes.
• Complete and interpret the DISC assessment.

This Foundational Learning for Contracting Professionals course is designed to improve the quality and impact of students’ briefings and produce productive communication strategies.  The class consists of practice presentations, small and large group discussions, practical exercises, and individual coaching and feedback sessions.  Students learn how to prepare for and deliver briefings and presentations.  They examine how effective communication impacts professional success.  Students practice the art and science of debriefing unsuccessful offers.  The course ends with students exploring strategies to manage difficult conversations and identifying communication strategies to engage leadership, peers, and customers.

Communicate, Collaborate and Connect focuses on the professional competency of Oral Communication identified in the FAI/DoD Contracting Competency Model.  Classroom discussions, exercises, assignments, case studies and other activities are specific to the contracting (1102) job series and designed to improve contracting professionals’ competence in this topic.

NOTE:  This course was previously named, “Wow the Crowd!  Making Engaging Presentations” and contains many of the same learning objectives.

This course focuses on one or more competency specific to the VA 1102 Career Path Continuum specific to the contracting (1102) job series.  Classroom discussions, exercises, assignments, case studies and other activities are specific to the contracting (1102) job series and designed to improve contracting professionals’ competence in this topic.

In Develop Others and Pay it Forward, you will learn how to adopt a leadership approach that heightens performance and improves the productivity of your direct reports and other associates.  Contracting professionals are naturally ambitious high achievers.  They aspire to develop and prepare for positions with greater responsibility.  As supervisors, you foster your associates, which directly benefits the organization you serve.  As experienced contracting professionals you have likely had the support of someone to help navigate your career.  This course counts on your willingness to work with the next generation to pay it forward.  You will begin by using a self-assessment tool to identify and explain your natural leadership style.  Assignments will inform and allow you to practice techniques that facilitate a comfortable transition to a more appropriate style, given these variables:  the contracting-specific business cases, and the professional development and the maturity level of your associates.  Upon completion of this course, you will acquire the skills needed to increase professional effectiveness, by providing clear direction, listening, observing, monitoring, and regimenting optimal feedback to your support staff.  The state of the acquisition workforce will be discussed as well as techniques to keep morale high and retain high-potential individuals.

The course is 2 days.  Students will have a pre-course work assignment prior to attending scheduled sessions.

This in-person skill-building workshop provides a detailed understanding of how to make a determination of fair and reasonable pricing. After covering a broad range of pricing concepts, pricing techniques are covered in-depth, including relevant policy, regulation, and example language. Students practice various pricing techniques by using case studies to review requirements and evaluate pricing for reasonableness. Price reasonableness as it pertains to FAR Parts 8, 13, and 15 are covered. Material is relevant to the entire acquisition workforce as both skill-building and skill-refresher. This hands-on workshop is available to be relocated to field locations.

This orientation is for GS-1102, Supervisory Contracting Specialist.  In this course, students will reflect upon and develop their vision for personal supervisory style, professional growth, and team development.  Through topics such as accountability, critical thinking, performance management, self-awareness, and relationship management, students will better understand the benefits of building a positive culture to lead diverse teams.  Students will bolster their supervisory toolkit with an appreciation that it will evolve over time.  Through dynamic instruction, peer discussion, and interactive guest speaker visits, students will gain the knowledge to become technically savvy and emotionally intelligent leaders needed in VA’s 1102 workforce.  There are approximately five (5) hours of pre-course work required for this course.

Think About It is an introduction to Systems Thinking for VA Acquisition Professionals. Do you think about it? Of course you do, we think about things every day, all day! But are you aware of how you think? Join the VAAA Contracting Professional School on a three-day face-to-face journey on thinking. Topics in this course include: what is thinking, an introduction to critical thinking, the Systems Thinking Model, and how to use it for problem solving. We’ll work through these topics with a little lecture and a lot of hands on thinking activities.

This in-person skill-building workshop includes the use of Simplified Acquisition Procedures (SAP) established in FAR Part 13.  Students gain understanding of the benefits of SAP, VA-specific policies, and specific streamlining techniques such as combined synopsis/solicitation and comparative evaluations.  We encourage all levels of the procurement workforce to participate in this workshop to gain insight on how implementation of simplified procedures can streamline most procurement up to $7 million.  This hands-on workshop is available to be relocated to field locations by request.

Students must be GS-07 or higher in order to be approved for this course.

This webinar focuses on a Foundational Learning for Contracting Professionals course that provides students with practical strategies to bounce back and thrive during times of change and uncertainty.

Resilience is a learned skill that must be practiced and applied. Resilience is about how you recharge, not about how you endure hardship. Resilience is a professional competency identified in the FAI/DoD Contracting Competency Model because it is a critical aspect of professional longevity and personal happiness. Change and uncertainty are a reality for all professionals especially 1102s. In order to thrive personally and professionally, we need an action plan to master our emotions, manage stress, and handle change. This course will take you on a learning journey that you can customize and use to support the practice of bouncing back or charting a new course when the stakes are high, and the outcomes are uncertain! The course will contain discussions, inspirational stories, thought provoking questions, and practical strategies designed to improve work and life satisfaction for individual contributors and supervisors.

Students are required to complete 30 minutes of self-paced enrichment before they attend a virtual instructor led class that will run from 11:00 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Eastern.

In this course, students attend a 1.5-hour webinar and complete pre-class assignments to earn 2 CLPs.

LEARNING OBJECTIVES:

1. Identify challenges and strategies to improve resilience in times of stress
2. Explore critical change management strategies to decrease stress and increase productivity
3. Identify and customize techniques to minimize conflict and overcome challenges to prevent burnout and increase employee engagement

Students must be GS-07 or higher in order to be approved for this course.

This webinar focuses on a Foundational Learning for Contracting Professionals course that provides students with practical strategies to utilize optimism as a skill to improve performance.

Optimism helps us keep a positive attitude in difficult times. It is also a strategy that can be utilized to improve performance at the workplace. When we dwell on past mistakes and fill our days with worry, we waste time that could be used to develop a strategy to improve those things that we can control. Research shows that optimism can prevent depression, increase social connection, boost performance on the job, increase success, and make you more resilient in the face of setbacks. Although pessimism may seem to have its place, dwelling on negatively can harm your health, increase your stress level, and decrease performance and strategic thinking.

This course will support you in transforming optimism into a strategy to get results, meet goals, overcome obstacles and thrive in a Volatile, Uncertain, Complex and Ambiguous (VUCA) environment. Change is hard, but change can also be a gift! When we accept and embrace change with an unwavering commitment to optimism, we can find success in our personal and professional lives.

Students are required to complete 30 minutes of self-paced enrichment before they attend a virtual instructor led class that will run from 11:00 a.m.-12:30 p.m. ET.

In this course, students attend a 1.5-hour webinar and complete pre-class assignments to earn 2 CLPs.

LEARNING OBJECTIVES:

1. Explore the history of optimism in life and work
2. Examine the connection between personality, culture, and experiences that impact optimism
3. Explore the pros and cons of optimism to thrive in a VUCA environment
4. Identify and customize techniques to increase optimism to improve performance and sharpen management skills

Students must be GS-07 or higher in order to be approved for this course.

This webinar focuses on a Foundational Learning for Contracting Professionals course that provides students with practical strategies to master learning agility in times of uncertainty.

As professionals, we must develop tools and strategies to thrive during times of uncertainty and change. While we often have little control over external events, we can take control of our schedules, revisit our goals, and explore ways to use challenge and adversity to propel our commitment to work more efficiently.

One key to unlocking our potential as people and professionals is through a concept called Learning Agility. Learning Agility as one’s willingness and ability to learn from experience and then apply that learning to new situations. This is a component of leadership potential that can be developed and measured. In short you can leverage this skill to figure out “what to do when one doesn’t know what to do.”

At its core, Learning Agility is built on mastery of breadth and depth. Breadth is being able to take skills and apply them across a variety of factors and situations. Depth is knowing your technical job well. This course explores the combination of these two factors.

Students are required to complete 30 minutes of self-paced enrichment before they attend a virtual instructor led class that will run from 11:00 a.m.-12:30 p.m. ET.

In this course, students attend a 1.5-hour webinar and complete pre-class assignments to earn 2 CLPs.

LEARNING OBJECTIVES:

1. Define productivity and weigh the benefits of creating a daily schedule
2. Analyze the distinctions between building mastery and depth in contracting
3. Explore meaningful goals setting and apply systems thinking to overcome personal and professional roadblocks to productivity
4. Create a customized schedule that supports happiness and satisfaction in life and at work

Students must be GS-07 or higher in order to be approved for this course.

This webinar focuses on a Foundational Learning for Contracting Professionals course that provides students with practical strategies to communicate more effectively while working remotely.

Virtual and remote work has evolved into a norm over the past several years. Many teams have now been compelled to explore new strategies to connect, collaborate, and communicate effectively in virtual formats. Executing meetings, giving presentations, and leading teams are challenging tasks even when everyone is in the office together. Shifts to new formats require shifts in how we engage in our work. Fortunately, there are excellent strategies for nurturing a consistent culture that keeps teams working together remotely. This course will provide tools and skills you can use to support the practice of engaging, teaching, and leading successfully in a remote and sometimes Volatile, Uncertain, Complex and Ambiguous (VUCA) work environment.

Students are required to complete 30 minutes of self-paced enrichment before they attend a virtual instructor led class that will run from 11:00 a.m.-12:30 p.m. ET.

In this course, students attend a 1.5-hour webinar and complete pre-class assignments to earn 2 CLPs.

LEARNING OBJECTIVES:

1. Examine the best strategies to improve virtual communication and presentations
2. Identify best practices for running virtual meetings
3. Explore unique challenges to virtual and remote collaboration
4. Practice virtual engagement techniques

This workshop will provide VA students an opportunity to apply the knowledge learned in CON 170 (FED). This application-based class provides a detailed understanding of how to make a determination of fair and reasonable pricing prior to contract award. Students will practice various pricing techniques by using case studies to review requirements and evaluate pricing for reasonableness. Contract pricing techniques are covered in-depth, including relevant VA policy, regulation, and example language. Dedicated time is set-a-side to discuss application of the Vets First Contracting Program. The VA Acquisition Academy will offer this 2-day course consecutively following an 8-day CON 170 offering. This course is to be taken in conjunction with completing CON 170 (FED). VA student should register for CON 170 and the consecutive offering of this course at the same time.

This Foundational Learning for Contracting Professionals course will help students hone skills on staying flexible while being accountable for their actions.  It’s crucial for every 1102 to know when to say yes, no, or it depends; stick to your decision and defend that decision, if necessary.  Synchronous and asynchronous virtual learning VA Learning University (VALU) resources are included.

Adapt to Change and Maintain Accountability focuses on the professional competencies of Accountability and Flexibility identified in the FAI/DoD Contracting Competency Model.  Classroom discussions, exercises, assignments, case studies and other activities are specific to the contracting (1102) job series and designed to improve contracting professionals’ competence in this topic.

Students are expected to complete individual assignments and two virtual sessions, all within the same week, which will require 7 hours to complete.

This Foundational Learning for Contracting Professionals course will provide students with a foundation for working with their customers to meet their needs and the VA mission.  The course includes hands-on activities, videos, blog entries, and techniques to provide excellent customer service.

Effectively Interacting with Your Customer focuses on the professional competency of Customer Service identified in the FAI/DoD Contracting Competency Model.  Classroom discussions, exercises, assignments, case studies and other activities are specific to the contracting (1102) job series and designed to improve contracting professionals’ competence in this topic.

Students are expected to complete individual assignments and one virtual session, which will total 8 hours of course work.  There are approximately three (3) hours of pre-course work required for this class.  After the virtual session, the individual assignments will be due one week later.

This Foundational Learning for Contracting Professionals course will provide students with techniques to solve problems and make decisions.  Do you have problems in your office?  Are you trying to get work accomplished and cannot get a group decision made? Students will work through a series of case studies, respond to articles, and have group discussion around common Acquisition problems.

Problem Solving for Acquisition Decision Making focuses on the professional competencies of Problem Solving and Decisiveness identified in the FAI/DoD Contracting Competency Model.  Classroom discussions, exercises, assignments, case studies and other activities are specific to the contracting (1102) job series and designed to improve contracting professionals’ competence in this topic.

This training includes one virtual classroom session.  Also, during the course week, individual assignments are required to be completed, prior to the virtual classroom session.  There are approximately five (5) hours of pre-course work required for this course.

This Foundational Learning for Contracting Professionals course provides students with information on how to strengthen professional resilience.  Do you have a heavy workload?  Manage many tight deadlines?  Field numerous customer requests?  Skills taught include how to manage these pressures effectively, while successfully achieving your objectives.

Strengthen Your Resilience:  Thrive As An 1102 focuses on the professional competency of Resilience identified in the FAI/DoD Contracting Competency Model.  Classroom discussions, exercises, assignments, case studies and other activities are specific to the contracting (1102) job series and designed to improve contracting professionals’ competence in this topic.

Students are required to complete seven (7) hours of self-paced work before they attend a virtual class that will run from 10:30am-4:00pm (Eastern).

This Foundational Learning for Contracting Professionals course will aid students in developing technical credibility in the contracting profession.  Students will learn how to not only build technical knowledge, but also practice behaviors that will enable them to navigate various relationships and build trust.  The course is designed for Level II and III contracting personnel who are interested in tools to become more credible in their professions.

Building Credibility and Trust in Contracting focuses on the professional competency of Technical Credibility identified in the FAI/DoD Contracting Competency Model.  Classroom discussions, exercises, assignments, case studies and other activities are specific to the contracting (1102) job series and designed to improve contracting professionals’ competence in this topic.

NOTE:  This course was previously named “Building Credibility and Sustaining Influence” and contains many of the same learning objectives.

This course uses a distance learning platform.  Virtual classroom sessions will be held:  Tuesday from 1:00-3:00pm (Eastern), Wednesday from 1:00-2:00pm (Eastern), and Thursday from 1:00-1:30pm (Eastern).  Independent assignments (totaling approximately 4.5 hours) will be required before and after the virtual classroom sessions.

This Foundational Learning for Contracting Professionals course will provide techniques to master the writing of routine contracting documents, to include an e-mail response, sole source justification, and best value document.  The course is designed for professionals with intermediate grammar and writing skills and general knowledge of source selection, who wish to concentrate on consistent and persuasive writing.

Advanced Technical Writing for 1102s focuses on the professional competency of Written Communication identified in the FAI/DoD Contracting Competency Model.  Classroom discussions, exercises, assignments, case studies and other activities are specific to the contracting (1102) job series and designed to improve contracting professionals’ competence in this topic.

NOTE:  This course was previously named “Advanced Business Writing for 1102s” and contains many of the same learning objectives.

This course uses a distance learning platform.  Virtual classroom sessions will be held Tuesdays and Thursdays, from 11:00-1:00pm (Eastern).  Independent assignments, totaling approximately 8 hours, will be required before and after the virtual classroom sessions.

This Foundational Learning for Contracting Professionals course is an advanced problem solving course that will assist students in solving complex problems involving groups with differing priorities.  Students will learn techniques for mastering the people and processes involved in multifaceted problems.  The course is designed for Level II or Level III or senior/team leader contracting professionals interested in driving solutions to complex problems.

Advanced Problem Solving for 1102s focuses on the professional competency of Problem Solving identified in the FAI/DoD Contracting Competency Model.  Classroom discussions, exercises, assignments, case studies and other activities are specific to the contracting (1102) job series and designed to improve contracting professionals’ competence in this topic.

NOTE:  This course was previously named “Identifying Problems and Creating Solutions” and contains many of the same learning objectives.

This course uses a distance learning platform.  Virtual classroom sessions will be held Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday, from 1:00-3:00pm (Eastern).  Independent assignments, totaling approximately four (4) hours, will be required before and after the virtual classroom sessions.

This course focuses on one or more competency specific to the VA 1102 Career Path Continuum specific to the contracting (1102) job series.  Classroom discussions, exercises, assignments, case studies and other activities are specific to the contracting (1102) job series and designed to improve contracting professionals’ competence in this topic.

Planning:  How to Make a Plan and Work It focuses on empowering the 1102 Journeyman Contracting Officer (CO), using forward-thinking strategies that maximize planning effectiveness during the acquisition process.  During this two-week course, students will engage in live virtual sessions, independent assignments, and collaborative team activities to understand and apply key planning principles and best practices to the acquisition environment.

This two-week course will be held using a VILT platform.  Students are expected to complete individual assignments over the two weeks that will require an estimated six-and-a-half hours to complete. Students must also attend three (3) VILT classroom sessions, including an orientation.

This course focuses on one or more competency specific to the VA 1102 Career Path Continuum specific to the contracting (1102) job series.  Classroom discussions, exercises, assignments, case studies and other activities are specific to the contracting (1102) job series and designed to improve contracting professionals’ competence in this topic.

Priority Setting:  Who’s On First?  focuses on empowering the 1102 Journeyman Contracting Officer (CO) through effective priority setting techniques.  During this course, students will engage in live virtual sessions, independent assignments, and collaborative team activities to understand and apply key priority setting techniques and best practices to the acquisition environment.

This three-week course will be held using a VILT platform.  Students are expected to complete individual assignments over the three weeks that will require an estimated five hours to complete.  Students must also attend four (4) VILT classroom sessions, including an orientation.

This course focuses on one or more competency specific to the VA 1102 Career Path Continuum specific to the contracting (1102) job series.  Classroom discussions, exercises, assignments, case studies and other activities are specific to the contracting (1102) job series and designed to improve contracting professionals’ competence in this topic.

Effective Time Management focuses on empowering the 1102 Journeyman Contracting Officer (CO) through effective time management techniques.  During this three-week virtual course, students will engage in live virtual sessions, independent assignments, and collaborative team activities to understand and apply key time management techniques and best practices to the acquisition environment.  Students are expected to complete individual assignments over the two weeks that will require an estimated five (5) hours to complete.

Students must attend orientation and three (3) VILT classroom sessions.

This course focuses on one or more competencies specific to the VA 1102 Career Path Continuum specific to the contracting (1102) job series.  Classroom discussions, exercises, assignments, case studies and other activities are specific to the contracting (1102) job series and designed to improve contracting professionals’ competence in this topic.

In contracting, technical skill is essential, but developing and strengthening emotional intelligence is the most critical aspect of professional success in any field.  In this course, students will better understand how their own professional competency, personality, and emotional intelligence form the whole picture of their professional potential.  During this four-week virtual instructor-led training (VILT) course, students will engage in live VILT sessions, independent assignments, and collaborative team activities to understand and apply key emotional intelligence techniques and best practices to the acquisition environment.

Students must attend orientation and four (4) VILT classroom sessions.

This course focuses on one or more competencies crucial to the “Big A” acquisition team to include Program/Project Managers, Facilities Personnel, Supply Chain Personnel, Finance, or any other member of the larger acquisition team. Classroom discussions, exercises, assignments, case studies, and other activities are directed towards the “Big A” acquisition team and designed to improve acquisition professionals’ competence in this topic.

This course focuses on one or more competency specific to the VA 1102 Career Path Continuum specific to the contracting (1102) job series.  Classroom discussions, exercises, assignments, case studies and other activities are specific to the contracting (1102) job series and designed to improve contracting professionals’ competence in this topic.

Managing and Measuring Work focuses on empowering Supervisory Contracting Officers, highlighting the importance and benefits of accounting for and actively managing work, and enhancing work processes using performance management techniques.  The course will provide an understanding of the importance of organizational metrics and their alignment with the team’s mission, as well as methods to assess and assign work, manage stakeholders’ expectations, and monitor performance in the acquisition environment.

The course is comprised of four (4) live virtual instructor-led training (VILT) sessions, including an orientation. Students are expected to attend all sessions and complete assignments prior to attending the VILT sessions. Independent time for the assignments is approximately 6 hours.

This course focuses on one or more competency specific to the VA 1102 Career Path Continuum specific to the contracting (1102) job series.  Classroom discussions, exercises, assignments, case studies and other activities are specific to the contracting (1102) job series and designed to improve contracting professionals’ competence in this topic.

Organizing a Winning Team is designed to empower Supervisory Contracting Officers (COs) through cultivating organizing strategies to marshal resources effectively and efficiently and to orchestrate multiple concurrent activities to accomplish organizational and team goals.  Students will practice organizing skills in realistic scenarios such as addressing staff changes and performing dual functions as contract specialists and supervisors, while maintaining a focus on the ability to organize oneself and one’s team, peers, customers, and managers.

This course focuses on one or more competency specific to the VA 1102 Career Path Continuum specific to the contracting (1102) job series.  Classroom discussions, exercises, assignments, case studies and other activities are specific to the contracting (1102) job series and designed to improve contracting professionals’ competence in this topic.

In Develop Others and Pay it Forward, you will learn how to adopt a leadership approach that heightens performance and improves the productivity of your direct reports and other associates.  Contracting professionals are naturally ambitious high achievers.  They aspire to develop and prepare for positions with greater responsibility.  As supervisors, you foster your associates, which directly benefits the organization you serve.  As experienced contracting professionals you have likely had the support of someone to help navigate your career.  This course counts on your willingness to work with the next generation to pay it forward.  You will begin by using a self-assessment tool to identify and explain your natural leadership style.  Assignments will inform and allow you to practice techniques that facilitate a comfortable transition to a more appropriate style, given these variables:  the contracting-specific business cases, and the professional development and the maturity level of your associates.  Upon completion of this course, you will acquire the skills needed to increase professional effectiveness, by providing clear direction, listening, observing, monitoring, and regimenting optimal feedback to your support staff.  The state of the acquisition workforce will be discussed as well as techniques to keep morale high and retain high-potential individuals.

The course is 2 days.  Students will have a pre-course work assignment prior to attending scheduled sessions.

This course focuses on one or more competency specific to the VA 1102 Career Path Continuum specific to the contracting (1102) job series.  Classroom discussions, exercises, assignments, case studies and other activities are specific to the contracting (1102) job series and designed to improve contracting professionals’ competence in this topic.

Manage the Message to Get Results will show students how to identify the best communication methods, to optimize relationships with key stakeholders to inform them, and in turn, be informed by them as they work in concert to accomplish goals.  The student will understand their role as change agents within their organization and develop strategies and tactics to share good and difficult information.  Assignments will include message planning and role-play scenarios to demonstrate the operational efficiency gained by fostering a transparent work environment; empowering their teams to make decisions; and align their messaging with their leaders vision, VA strategy, and ICARE values.

This course focuses on one or more competency specific to the VA 1102 Career Path Continuum specific to the contracting (1102) job series.  Classroom discussions, exercises, assignments, case studies and other activities are specific to the contracting (1102) job series and designed to improve contracting professionals’ competence in this topic.

In the Champion Differences to Improve Acquisition Outcomes course, Supervisory Contracting Officers will learn how to promote diversity principles to build, engage, and motivate your team.  This is accomplished as students learn to conquer unconscious barriers of diversity, embrace a culture of inclusion, and foster an environment that promotes different perspectives and innovative approaches to solve complex problems.

This course focuses on one or more competency specific to the VA 1102 Career Path Continuum specific to the contracting (1102) job series.  Classroom discussions, exercises, assignments, case studies and other activities are specific to the contracting (1102) job series and designed to improve contracting professionals’ competence in this topic.

In Mastering Difficult Conversations with Direct Reports, Supervisory Contracting Officers will be provided the strategies and tools to identify and deal with employees who present difficult behaviors.  They will progress through a sequence of steps to help them address these behavioral challenges in a strategic manner that fosters trust, transparency, and accountability with the individual and helps them work towards a mutual solution.  This course will discuss the cause and impact of certain challenging behaviors and apply practical techniques through a five-step process.  During this course, students will engage in live virtual sessions, independent assignments, and collaborative team activities to understand and apply key principles and leading practices to the acquisition environment.

This course will allow students to review VA-specific cases pertaining to protests and terminations.  They will be able to understand and apply knowledge of protest procedures, authorities, timelines, forums, and required documentation.  They will also be able to distinguish and demonstrate an understanding of contract Termination types, authorities, settlement processes, timelines, approvals, and required documentation.  The course will be presented with both case studies and interactive discussions online.  This is a virtual, instructor-led course featuring two, 4-hour sessions.

This course focuses on one or more competency specific to the VA 1102 Career Path Continuum specific to the contracting (1102) job series.  Classroom discussions, exercises, assignments, case studies and other activities are specific to the contracting (1102) job series and designed to improve contracting professionals’ competence in this topic.

The Delegating for Success course provides Managerial Contracting Officers with the concepts, tools, and strategies to delegate effectively, in order to encourage development, manage workloads, and ultimately lead a team to achieve its goals.  As a Managerial CO, your workload is most likely full and time is limited, to complete everything on your task list.  In this course, you will gain an understanding of the importance of delegation to management and how to leverage delegation strategies, to create meaningful growth opportunities that challenge and develop your employees.  The course will discuss the benefits and barriers of delegation and apply a five-step process to: identify both routine and important delegable tasks; determine the most appropriate person for a task; provide constructive and relevant feedback; and evaluate performance.  During this course, students will engage in live virtual sessions, independent assignments, and collaborative team activities, to understand and apply key principles and leading practices to the acquisition environment.

This course focuses on one or more competency specific to the VA 1102 Career Path Continuum specific to the contracting (1102) job series.  Classroom discussions, exercises, assignments, case studies and other activities are specific to the contracting (1102) job series and designed to improve contracting professionals’ competence in this topic.

In Building Effective Peer Relationships, students will gain insight into the importance of developing and maintaining peer relationships within and outside of the contracting community.  Students will use various methods to engage peers in a meaningful and effective way to prepare them for establishing lasting work relationships.  The course will also provide students with the opportunity to apply critical steps in developing a network of peers and will lay the foundation for them to use their network to address problems that they face in the workplace.

The Develop and Manage High-Performing Teams course provides Managerial Contracting Officers with the knowledge, skills, and leading principles to blend people into teams to achieve a common goal.  This requires a solid understanding of different types of teams, the requirements, attributes, and needs of a team, each individual team member, and the team’s environment.  Students will be introduced to different strategies and tools to progress successfully through the process for building an effective team.  Students will also discuss how to apply the process and tools to a team that they may have inherited.  During this course, students will engage in live virtual sessions, independent assignments, and collaborative team activities to understand and apply key principles and leading practices to the acquisition environment.  Sixteen (16) CLPs will be awarded for the course.

Think About It is an introduction to Systems Thinking for VA Acquisition Professionals. Do you think about it? Of course you do, we think about things every day, all day! But are you aware of how you think? Join the VAAA Contracting Professional School on a three day virtual journey on thinking. Topics in this course include: what is thinking, an introduction to critical thinking, the Systems Thinking Model, and how to use it for problem solving. We'll work through these topics with a little lecture and a lot of hands on thinking activities. The course will be run through a virtual learning platform from 11:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m. ET three consecutive days during the weeks that it is scheduled.

This virtual instructor-led course will discuss the use of Simplified Acquisition Procedures (SAP) established in FAR Part 13.  After completing this course, students will understand the benefits and uses of SAP, recognize VA-specific policies in relation to SAP, and debunk barriers that in the past may have limited our application of specific streamlining techniques.

In this course, students complete independent assignments including pre-tests and reading, attend two 3.5-hour virtual classroom sessions, and complete a post-test.

Jumpstart your negotiation skills with this online offering!  This course will give students the basics of negotiation techniques and provide several scenarios for students to practice their skills.  Join us online for this exciting, interactive training.

This course may be taken to meet the requirements for FAC-C Level III certification.  This course, focusing on contracting for architect-engineers, covers issues across the contracting spectrum, including acquisition planning, source selection, proposal analysis, contract award and work, and contract management.  Specific topics and practical exercises allow professionals to gain knowledge of the Brooks Act, SF-330, the slate and selection process, the review of government estimates, liability, Title II services, modifications, and Contracting Officer’s Representative responsibilities.

This course is a FAC-C Level II certification training course. This course is specifically designed to help students become better business advisors while they develop contract arrangements that serve the best interests of the government. It expands upon the contract pricing principles addressed in the Level I Contracting curriculum, Contract Pricing Reference Guide, and Department of Defense policy. The course prepares students for subsequent DAWIA Level II certification courses that cover more advanced contract pricing content.

This self-paced course provides training on the use of tiered evaluations (cascading) as they relate to implementation of 38 U.S.C. 8127 (known as the Veterans First Contracting Program). Students are provided a review of market research and an overview of Procurement Policy Memorandum 2018-04. This course is intended for all VA Contracting Professionals. Students will receive a separate link to the course within one week of registering in FAITAS.

This self-paced course provides training on VA’s policy on interagency acquisitions implemented by Procurement Policy Memorandum 2017-04.  Students are provided VA-specific guidance for interagency agreements and acquisitions to include both the FAR-based process and related decision and execution processes.

This course is intended for all VA Contracting Professionals. Students will receive a separate link to the course within one week of registering in FAITAS.

Students will complete this self-paced course in Blackboard. Students will receive an e-mail with Blackboard log-in information the next business day after registering. This self-paced course provides training on the Veterans First Contracting Program. Students will be provided a brief overview of the program as well as an in-depth review of its applicability to each phase of the procurement cycle - market research, procurement strategy, solicitation, evaluation, award, and post-award. Implementation challenges will also be addressed, including file documentation, mandatory sources, Buy American Act requirements, fair and reasonable price determinations, and monitoring subcontractor compliance. This course is intended for all VA acquisition professionals.

FAR Fundamentals provides foundational knowledge of the Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR) System.  Students will be immersed in the FAR throughout this course and emerge knowledgeable of the government contracting process; the FAR and FAR supplement structure; FAR Parts 1-53; and will be able to locate and understand FAR regulations, guidance, provisions, and clauses.  Students will navigate the online FAR as they wrestle with realistic scenario-based contracting problems.  This training course is designed for personnel new to Federal contracting workforce who are seeking FAC-C Level I training and non-contracting personnel who play a role in the acquisition process and require this course for certification.

Upon successful completion of this course, the student will be able to:

• Identify the basic framework of the federal acquisition environment and locate, cite, and interpret information in the FAR.
• Identify the policies and procedures related to acquisition planning, preferred and required sources, competition requirements, types of contracts, special contracting methods, describing agency needs, publicizing contract actions, and socioeconomic programs.
• Identify policies and procedures for soliciting offers, evaluating bids and offers, conducting exchanges with offerors, awarding contracts, managing protests, and conducting simplified acquisitions.
• Identify the fundamental concepts of administration, the rights of parties when contract performance is unacceptable, applicable payment clauses, contract modifications, contract disputes, terminations, and closeout.

This 3-day course will review basic concepts of government law and practices with a brief background of the FAR through the growth from federal laws that led to where we are today; it should address the three major areas of acquisition:  supplies, services, and construction. The course should simplify the terminology and provide context related to specific FAR parts.

Construction Contracting provides students with a comprehensive overview of construction contracting issues, including acquisition and project planning, contract award and performance management, funding issues, environmental and sustainability concerns, construction contract clauses and language, commercial construction contracting, construction laws and regulations, design/build project delivery systems, project scheduling and basic schedule delay analysis, schedule acceleration, and construction quality management.

This course may be taken to meet the requirements for FAC-C Level III certification.  Please note that it partially fulfills the 32 required hours; therefore, an additional course must be taken  This course is designed for contracting professionals, or other personnel performing similar functions, who may assist federal agencies during the recovery from national disasters or other emergencies.  Students receive an introduction to the knowledge necessary to procure goods and services required to support emergency and disaster recovery activities.

This course addresses critical duties, functions, and responsibilities performed by contracting personnel during the contract administration phase of the acquisition process. The course format involves lecture, discussion, and exercises that expose the student to the sequence of activities they may expect to encounter when administering both simple and complex procurements. The course highlights activities that must be performed during the administration phase of a contract, methods of avoiding issues that may negatively affect contract performance, performing activities that are required by law or statute, and actions that should be taken to ensure that the government’s interests are protected.

Topics:

• Contract Administration Duties and Responsibilities
• Understanding Contract Language and Contract Terms and Conditions
• Contract Administration Planning
• Quality, Inspection, and Acceptance
• Changes to Contracts
• Contract Disputes
• Contact Closeout

Who Should Attend: Employees who are in or entering the acquisition workforce and others involved in the acquisition process.

This course provides the participant with a review of the unique aspects of contracting for architect-engineer services.  The course reviews Federal Acquisition Regulations Part 36, and VA Acquisition Regulations 836.6.  Topics includes:  Architects and Engineers statute, design reviews, preparation and review of construction documents and drawings, solicitation and evaluation phase, negotiation objectives, contract award, quality reviews, and administration of A&E contracts.  This course also includes a review of general condition and requirements.

This course is a review for those individuals who have previously completed CON 243 - Architect and Engineering Contracting.

The Acquisition work force must be aware of project management mandates set by the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) and Office of Federal Procurement Policy (OFPP) for implementing Agile information technology (IT) projects. You must employ Agile-based project management approaches to accomplish the adaptive acquisition framework. You will learn how to use flexible acquisition techniques that align with less rigid procurement policies and procedures.

Learning Objectives:

• Describe Agile concepts and methodologies in the Federal acquisition environment
• Determine the acquisition and pricing strategies and techniques appropriate for Agile projects and programs
• Apply quality-focused acquisition methodologies in Agile projects and programs
• Determine the most effective methods to use when simplifying deliverables, choosing an acquisition vehicle, or meeting reporting and compliance requirements

This session provides agency personnel with the legal aspects of Federal Appropriations Law.  The course is based on the Principles of Federal Appropriations Law published by the General Accounting Office.  These materials are designed to provide the student with insight and information on Comptroller General decisions that impact an Agency’s expenditures.

Course provides leaders with practical tools necessary to cultivate and foster adaptability, innovation, resilience, and growth in others within the workplace.  Course objectives are the ability to analyze impact of employee engagement, leverage diverse capabilities of individuals, utilize the power of conversation to encourage engagement and employ best practices for engaging employees in promoting continuous growth with all within an organization.

This course explores how to identify leadership opportunities and how to use your natural strengths to take on important leadership roles within your organization.  The student will enhance their leadership skills by learning the focus areas for leadership and management.  This course is designed for individuals who are not in managerial positions, but who need to get work done through others.

What is leadership, and what are the essential traits and behaviors of leaders that foster high performance?  This course provides the opportunity to explore the core skills and techniques crucial to effective leadership and management.  You will identify your own leadership style and values and discover ways to increase your leadership flexibility in a variety of situations.  You will practice skills that foster adaptive and resilient teams and generate an environment of creativity and innovation.  Specific skill areas include engaging and motivating others, enhancing performance, coaching techniques, and resolving conflict.  In this course, you will also explore the role ethical leadership plays in making high-quality decisions.  You will leave the course ready to build a personal leadership network and commit to your ongoing leadership development.

The ability to think critically is a crucial skill set because an essential measure of an organization's success is its ability to overcome problems. Explore what critical thinking entails and the mindset of effective critical thinkers. Learn how to frame problems and formulate effective decision criteria to arrive at the best solution to a problem. Improve your ability to overcome obstacles to critical thinking and use creative thinking tools by applying critical thinking and problem-solving methods to your own workplace situations.

Who Should Attend: This course is intended for professionals who want to change thinking patterns to solve workplace problems.

Learning Objectives:

• Analyze qualities and patterns of effective critical thinkers
• Use sound methods of framing problems and thinking critically to implement solutions
• Overcome obstacles to critical thinking and problem solving
• Use various tools to promote critical thinking for problem solving
• Use creative thinking tools and methods to solve problems
• Apply critical thinking strategies to solve work-related problems

This three-day course is intended to provide federal employees with a firm grasp of congressional protocols and the relationship between federal agencies and Congress.  This course will also review the legislative process, how OMB and GAO interact with agencies, the appropriations and budget process, the principles and methods of congressional committees and hearings, and how special interest groups and the media may affect policy making.  Learning Objectives and Outcomes: Upon successful completion of this training course, the student will be able to:

• Identify how Congress may influence agency policies.
• Understand the congressional budget development and approval process.
• Comprehend the budget amendment and modification process.
• Understand how congressional hearings and committees may affect budget.
• Gain knowledge and resources that support more effective communication with Congress and congressional members.

This comprehensive training course covers the full spectrum of claims arising under construction contracts.  It addresses the aspects of recognizing a potential claim, pricing considerations, terminations, and the roles of the boards of contract appeals and the courts.  After successful completion of this training course, the student will be able to:  describe the claims process; recognize a potential claim; and provide options for resolving disputes.

This course focuses on the unique demands of administering cost-reimbursement contracts for services, supplies and research development.  It is specifically designed for students with a basic understanding of federal contracting principles and procedures and who are involved in the specialized area of cost - reimbursement contracts.

This course walks acquisition professionals through the FSS ordering process from A-Z.  Purchasing officials will gain an in-depth understanding of how the Federal Supply Schedule program works, benefits of using FSS Schedules and how to place orders against FSS contracts.

Federal agencies are relying more and more on the commercial market for the goods, services, and systems required to achieve stated goals.  Learn how to leverage the experience of similarly situated organizations to make market research most effective.  This three-day course was developed to teach students the tools and techniques necessary to perform effective market research.  Our interactive hands-on training provides students with the skills to develop and execute a comprehensive market research plan.

This course may be taken to meet the requirements for FAC-C Level III certification.  A vital skill in procurement is the ability to negotiate effectively.  Almost every level of contracting involves negotiations, in a wide range of settings, over small and large issues.  This course provides you with a solid battery of strategies, tactics and skills that are effective in contract information and contract administration negotiations:  Every key phase of the negotiation process - from start to finish - is covered in this dynamic course.

This course may be taken to meet the requirements for FAC-C Level III certification.  Please note that it partially fulfills the 32 required hours; therefore, an additional course must be taken.  This workshop consists of intensive hands-on learning where, under the guidance of a strategic sourcing expert, students will analyze actual government spending data to make strategic sourcing decisions.  Just as government agencies are doing today, students will form collaborative teams to work through a comprehensive case study that guides them through the strategic sourcing process.  Students will analyze the organization's current spend strategy, assess and prioritize opportunities for savings, develop a strategy, and then implement that strategy.  Finally students will establish processes to track and manage performance of their strategic contract.  Following this course, students will be able to return to their agency confident in their ability to hit the ground running in a strategic sourcing initiative.

This course may be taken to meet the requirements for FAC-C Level III certification.  This course provides buying and selling professionals with the knowledge and tools needed to plan, negotiate, and manage contracts using the statement of objectives approach.  The course is a great source of performance-based acquisition guidance, policies, and best practices.

This course provides in-depth, up-to-the-minute coverage on the full range of small purchase policies and procedures, including the revised FAR language.  In addition to explaining the many changes that have occurred in the simplified acquisition area, the course also emphasizes the well-established rules that have not changed with FASA, such as compliance with FAR Part 8, required source of supply, the regulatory prohibition against splitting orders and contract reporting.

This session provides the student with information and practical guidance on the development and use of performance-based work statements as required by the FAR.  It is suitable for all personnel involved in the acquisition process, including Contracting Officers and CORs.  The coverage includes an overview of the process, the linkage of sections of the contract, setting performance requirements, and the hands-on opportunity to review local problems and situations.  Note:  Students are encouraged to bring their own work efforts so that extremely relevant SOWs may be created during the session.

This course may be taken to meet the requirements for FAC-C Level III certification.  This course provides complete and comprehensive coverage on source selection principles and processes.  The forty-hour format, using lecture, discussion, and exercises, has been designed to teach the competencies required of contract specialists in the FAI Contract Specialist Training Blueprint, and complies with FAI guidelines.  The course highlights the development of source selection plan from the inception of the acquisition through award, and how the source selection process functions to obtain best value in specific types of acquisitions.

This course provides the student with an understanding of changes to the Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR) and the contract formation process.  It is appropriate for contracting and program personnel involved in contract formation and award.  The course covers acquisition and source selection methods and procedures, as well as evaluation of offers and quotes.

This course may be taken to meet the requirements for FAC-C Level III certification.  Please note that it partially fulfills the 32 required hours; therefore, an additional course must be taken.  The course provides the student with information on and knowledge of the source selection processes, with a focus on legislation leading to today's processes and procedures, the elements associated with planning acquisition, components of the source selection plan, rating methods, and the development of factor language, including proposal preparation instructions and evaluation criteria.

The course improves the students' understanding of the Congressional intent behind key FAR 15 requirements, FAR change regulatory analysis, and GAO case law, which illustrates the broad discretion, afforded an agency during the source selection process.  The student will gain a greater understanding and appreciation of legislated limits of the process, as well as actions and conduct that can be taken to reduce the risk of challenges to an acquisition.

It is recommended that attendees have completed their FAC-C Level II certification.

This two-day course provides students with a general understanding of what Federal Service Contract Labor Standards statute means to them in the course of awarding and administering task orders under federal contracts.  Roles and responsibilities of the contracting agency and Department of Labor are discussed, along with procedures for preparing a task order and administration plan to meet the requirements.  Administration issues are discussed using case studies.

This two-day commercial item contracting class utilizes lecture, discussion, case studies, exercises, and a quiz to train contracting personnel on commercial item contracting.

Learning Objectives:

• Identify the purpose of FAR Part 12
• Determine whether or not a requirement falls within the definition of “commercial item,” and whether or not the requirement is covered by FAR Part 12 “Acquisition of Commercial Items.”
• Special Requirements for the Acquisition of Commercial Items
• Market Research - Sole Source Acquisitions of Commercial Items - Soliciting Quotations-Request for Quotations-Commercial Pricing FAQs.
• Streamlined Procedures for Evaluation and Solicitation for Commercial Items-Commercial Item Contract Administration
• Summarize the impact of FAR Part 12 on the award and administration of contracts covered by that FAR Part.

This course is targeted for new system users of eCMS and will present the basic components and features of the system.  Before attending the 3½ day classroom training, students must have completed the three web-based eLearning module prerequisites to establish a baseline level of eCMS knowledge.

The classroom-based training uses a sample Request for Quotation (RFQ) to cover topics such as acquisition planning, solicitation actions and documents, content manager and briefcase, award actions, and modifications and amendments.  Live demonstrations will be accompanied by hands on exercises to increase the user’s confidence in using the full functionality of the system.

This webinar will share VA's eCMS best practices and documentation requirements for FY 2020. Together we will discuss essential tips and tricks to help users be in compliance with contract file documentation requirements. The webinar will cover an array of topics, to include:

• Action Categorization
• Publishing to Contract Opportunities
• Creating Items
• Connected & Related Actions
• Milestones

The webinar will be approximately 1.5 hour in length and include a question and answer period.

eCMS is integrated with numerous acquisition systems, including FedBizOpps (FBO), Forecasting of Contracting Opportunities (FCO), Vendor Portal, eBuy, Federal Procurement Data System (FPDS), System for Award Management (SAM), Integrated Funds Distribution, Control Point Activity, Accounting and Procurement (IFCAP), and the Centralized Administrative Accounting Transaction System (CAATS).  These systems enrich the capabilities of eCMS by allowing it to be a single point of entry for all integrated systems.  This web-based tutorial module will convey the purpose of each of these systems, the relationships between them, and their impact within the eCMS lifecycle.

This web-based tutorial shows eCMS users performing a system administration function how to create and maintain user accounts, use shared desktops, and administer eCMS data.

This web-based tutorial will describe the importance of correctly using Content Manager as a method of creating contractual documents, and define the importance of the Briefcase.  Learners will increase their ability to navigate the Document Generation process, apply best practices during Document Generation, and understand how Content Manager and the Briefcase work together within eCMS.

This course is a pre-recorded webcast describing the eCMS curriculum updates, including changes to the classroom-based training format, addition of web-based training modules, and the eCMS User Guide on SharePoint.

As VA’s Official System of Record, eCMS works closely with FPDS for reporting purposes.  The accuracy of data entered into FPDS is reliant upon appropriate usage of the eCMS system, primarily from the standpoint of correct completion of data value prompts.  This web-based tutorial will educate users on the relay of information, between eCMS and FPDS and importance of correct completion of data value prompts, to improve VA’s organizational reporting to the FPDS database.

This web-based tutorial will increase user understanding of how the eCMS lifecycle supports the pre-award, award, and post-award phases of the Acquisition Lifecycle, and is intended to provide users with a holistic understanding of the eCMS system as it supports VA’s acquisition requirements.  It will describe eCMS terminology and link terminology concepts to acquisition concepts as defined by the Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR).

This web-based tutorial describes how MicroStrategy can be used as a performance support tool and highlights its many functions.  Learners will become acquainted with sample reports and learn how to generate and customize their own MicroStrategy reports.

This web-based tutorial discusses modification actions and change orders.  Students will dive into the many purposes of the modification action, build their understanding of this integral action, and understand how it is used in order to facilitate each of its specific uses.

This web-based tutorial provides eCMS users with learning techniques that can be used to teach their peers and respond to common questions and workplace challenge.  Learners will understand the importance of training and gain insight into the challenges faced by every day eCMS users.  This tutorial will also point out useful resources that can be used to support learning efforts.

This web-based tutorial serves as an interactive standard operating procedure, to reference the eCMS User Guide.