Army OSBP Newsletter - March 2015

Front CoverBack Cover

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

Follow Army OSBP www.twitter.com/ArmySmallBiz www.facebook.com/ArmySmallBiz

www.flickr.com/ArmySmallBiz

• Over 300 Attend Army Small Business Seminar at AUSA Annual Meeting • Former Army OSBP Deputy Director Speaks to Veteran Small Business

Program Graduates • USACE Wilmington District Attends the Federal Infrastructure &

Environmental Summit• Anniston Army Depot Holds First Vendor Day• Small Business Highlight: A. Bright Idea, LLC • Small Businesses Essential to Huntsville Center Success• USAMRMC OSBP Recognizes Acquisition Workforce• Small Business Highlight: ACC Redstone Awards Remotely Piloted Vehicle

Target to Small Business• CECOM Software Engineering Center Excels in HUBZone Utilization• MICC Executes Almost $2.4 Billion in FY14 Small Business Contracts• Small Business Conference for Federal, Engineering, Construction and

Environmental Programs Facilitates Engagement and Provides Acquisition Forecast to Small Business

• The Impact of Small Business Exclusions on Army’s FY14 Performance• Remembering Ms. Tracey L. Pinson, Former Director, Army Office of Small

Business Programs• Army Small Business Deputy Director Promoted to Senior Executive Service• Army OSBP Welcomes New Women-Owned Program Manager• Women as Veteran Entrepreneurs Policy Update Breakfast• Army Provides “Access” at Veteran Small Business Engagement• New Map Feature Added to Army Small Business Specialist Directory• Calendar of Events

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U.S. Army OSBP

106 Army PentagonRoom 3B514Washington, DC 20310Phone: 703.697.2868Fax: [email protected] www.sellingtoarmy.com

Points of Contact Mr. James Lloyd Acting Deputy Director Program Manager, SDVOSB & HUBZone [email protected]

Ms. Cynthia Lee Assistant to the Director Program Manager, HBCU/MI and 8(a)/SDB [email protected]

Ms. Pamela L. Monroe Assistant to the Director Program Manager, Mentor-Protégé & Subcontracting [email protected]

Ms. Sharon R. MorrowAssistant to the DirectorProgram Manager, Women-Owned Small Business, Major Programs and [email protected]

Ms. Portia DeansAssistant to the DirectorProcurement [email protected]

Ms. Edith St. Catherine Staff Action Control Specialist [email protected]

Ms. Veronica Atkinson Administrative Officer [email protected]

....................................................

Newsletter Produced By Halfaker and Associates, LLCSupport Contractor to Army OSBP Mr. Anthony Braun [email protected]

Mr. Ricardo Ruiz [email protected]

Mr. Burt Stanko [email protected]

Ms. Monica Early [email protected]

In This Issue

Newsletter | March 2015

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2U.S. Army OSBP • Building the Future of the Army through Small Business Utilization | www.sellingtoarmy.com

Over 300 people attended the second Army Small Business Seminar at the AUSA Annual Meeting, October 14 and 15 at the Walter E. Washington

Convention Center in Washington, DC.

According to a post-seminar attendee survey conducted by Army OSBP, almost 90 percent of attendees were from small businesses. Representatives from large businesses, government, and universities also attended. One hundred percent of survey respondents said that the seminar was either “very useful” or “somewhat useful.”

The seminar consisted of a series of panels and individual speakers. The most useful panel, according to the survey, was the Department of Defense (DoD) Small Business Directors Panel, which was moderated by Mr. Kenyata Wesley, Deputy Director, DoD OSBP, and featured Army, Navy, Air Force, Defense Information Systems Agency, and Defense Logistics Agency. Other panels included “Contracting Opportunities” with Army contracting officers

and program managers, an overview of the Army Mentor-Protégé Program, and a Small Business Legislative Update.

New this year was a small business professional development panel aimed at Defense small business specialists, which featured Ms. Camylle Coley, Senior Management Consultant, DoD OSBP.

For presentations and photos from the seminar, please visit: http://sellingtoarmy.com/content/army-small-business-seminar-2014-ausa-annual-meeting. ■

Submitted by:Mr. Anthony BraunSupport ContractorArmy OSBP

Over 300 Attend Army Small Business Seminar at AUSA Annual Meeting

Page 1

1

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

Follow Army OSBP www.twitter.com/ArmySmallBiz www.facebook.com/ArmySmallBiz

www.flickr.com/ArmySmallBiz

• Over 300 Attend Army Small Business Seminar at AUSA Annual Meeting • Former Army OSBP Deputy Director Speaks to Veteran Small Business

Program Graduates • USACE Wilmington District Attends the Federal Infrastructure &

Environmental Summit• Anniston Army Depot Holds First Vendor Day• Small Business Highlight: A. Bright Idea, LLC • Small Businesses Essential to Huntsville Center Success• USAMRMC OSBP Recognizes Acquisition Workforce• Small Business Highlight: ACC Redstone Awards Remotely Piloted Vehicle

Target to Small Business• CECOM Software Engineering Center Excels in HUBZone Utilization• MICC Executes Almost $2.4 Billion in FY14 Small Business Contracts• Small Business Conference for Federal, Engineering, Construction and

Environmental Programs Facilitates Engagement and Provides Acquisition Forecast to Small Business

• The Impact of Small Business Exclusions on Army’s FY14 Performance• Remembering Ms. Tracey L. Pinson, Former Director, Army Office of Small

Business Programs• Army Small Business Deputy Director Promoted to Senior Executive Service• Army OSBP Welcomes New Women-Owned Program Manager• Women as Veteran Entrepreneurs Policy Update Breakfast• Army Provides “Access” at Veteran Small Business Engagement• New Map Feature Added to Army Small Business Specialist Directory• Calendar of Events

2 3

5

789

1011

12

13

1517

22

2324

25

U.S. Army OSBP

106 Army PentagonRoom 3B514Washington, DC 20310Phone: 703.697.2868Fax: [email protected] www.sellingtoarmy.com

Points of Contact Mr. James Lloyd Acting Deputy Director Program Manager, SDVOSB & HUBZone [email protected]

Ms. Cynthia Lee Assistant to the Director Program Manager, HBCU/MI and 8(a)/SDB [email protected]

Ms. Pamela L. Monroe Assistant to the Director Program Manager, Mentor-Protégé & Subcontracting [email protected]

Ms. Sharon R. MorrowAssistant to the DirectorProgram Manager, Women-Owned Small Business, Major Programs and [email protected]

Ms. Portia DeansAssistant to the DirectorProcurement [email protected]

Ms. Edith St. Catherine Staff Action Control Specialist [email protected]

Ms. Veronica Atkinson Administrative Officer [email protected]

....................................................

Newsletter Produced By Halfaker and Associates, LLCSupport Contractor to Army OSBP Mr. Anthony Braun [email protected]

Mr. Ricardo Ruiz [email protected]

Mr. Burt Stanko [email protected]

Ms. Monica Early [email protected]

In This Issue

Newsletter | March 2015

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3 Newsletter | March 2015 4U.S. Army OSBP • Building the Future of the Army through Small Business Utilization | www.sellingtoarmy.com

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On October 21 2014, Ms. Jackie Robinson-Burnette, former Deputy Director, Army OSBP was among three panelists that spoke at the Montgomery

County Chamber of Commerce (MCCC) Veteran Institute for Procurement (VIP) graduation ceremony. Themed “Arming Vets to Win”, the ceremony was held at The Bolger Conference Center located in Potomac, MD.

The other panelists were Mr. Mauricio Vera, Director, U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID), Office of Small Disadvantaged Business Utilization (OSDBU) and Ms. Teresa L.G. Lewis, Director, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), OSDBU. Mr. Robert Bailey, President of BIT-Consultants, LLC, a service-disabled veteran-owned small business, and former graduate of the MCCC VIP, moderated the panel.

According to its website, “the VIP is the country’s first-ever program to train Veteran service-disabled and

Veteran-owned small businesses to succeed in the federal contracting market.” The MCCC funds the program with partners and sponsors so that Veterans can participate at no cost. Service-disabled and veteran-owned small businesses that have had one to two years of federal government contract exposure, either as a prime or sub-contractor, are eligible to participate.

Launched in 2009, the program has trained and graduated 397 veteran-owned small businesses, according to its website. The 2014 VIP graduating class consisted of 49 veteran-owned small business owners. The program accepts candidates from across the country and as far as Hawaii. This year’s graduates hailed from 14 states across the nation.

During the panel discussion, Ms. Robinson-Burnette, along with Mr. Vera and Ms. Lewis, offered information and recommendations to help business owners succeed.

Former Army OSBP Deputy Director Speaks to Veteran Small Business Program Graduates

The 2014 certified Montgomery County Chamber of Commerce graduating VIP Service-Disable and Veteran Owned small business participants.

Federal agencies speak to 2014 49 VIP graduates. Speakers from left to right Ms. Teresa L.G Lewis, Director, HHS OSDBU; Ms. Jackie Robinson-Burnette, former Deputy Director, Army OSBP; Mr. Maurico Vera, Director, USAID OSDBU and moderator Mr. Robert Bailey,

President,BIT-Consultants, LLC.

These included tips for submitting complete and accurate proposals, networking, and submitting effective capability briefings.

Ms. Robinson-Burnette encouraged the graduates to consider mentor-protégé programs as a means to attain training, mentorship, and growth. She also remarked that it is important for companies to contact contracting offices and small business specialists to create a relationship with the customer. “Find out what the need is from the customer and truly determine if your company is able and capable of providing that service,” she said.

Mr. Vera encouraged business owners to look outside of the norm and consider international opportunities, which have been steadily increasing for small businesses.

Ms. Robinson-Burnette closed the ceremony by congratulating the graduates and assisting with the awarding of the VIP certificates and Congressional citations from each graduate’s home state. ■

Submitted by:Ms. Monica EarlySupport ContractorArmy OSBP

Ms. Jackie Robinson-Burnette, former Deputy Director, Army OSBP, with Mr. Ron Washington, CEO, AirGo a Service-

Disabled Veteran-Owned Small Business. Mr. Washington is one of the 49 certified graduates for the 2014 Veteran Institute

for Procurement training.

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On October 21 2014, Ms. Jackie Robinson-Burnette, former Deputy Director, Army OSBP was among three panelists that spoke at the Montgomery

County Chamber of Commerce (MCCC) Veteran Institute for Procurement (VIP) graduation ceremony. Themed “Arming Vets to Win”, the ceremony was held at The Bolger Conference Center located in Potomac, MD.

The other panelists were Mr. Mauricio Vera, Director, U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID), Office of Small Disadvantaged Business Utilization (OSDBU) and Ms. Teresa L.G. Lewis, Director, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), OSDBU. Mr. Robert Bailey, President of BIT-Consultants, LLC, a service-disabled veteran-owned small business, and former graduate of the MCCC VIP, moderated the panel.

According to its website, “the VIP is the country’s first-ever program to train Veteran service-disabled and

Veteran-owned small businesses to succeed in the federal contracting market.” The MCCC funds the program with partners and sponsors so that Veterans can participate at no cost. Service-disabled and veteran-owned small businesses that have had one to two years of federal government contract exposure, either as a prime or sub-contractor, are eligible to participate.

Launched in 2009, the program has trained and graduated 397 veteran-owned small businesses, according to its website. The 2014 VIP graduating class consisted of 49 veteran-owned small business owners. The program accepts candidates from across the country and as far as Hawaii. This year’s graduates hailed from 14 states across the nation.

During the panel discussion, Ms. Robinson-Burnette, along with Mr. Vera and Ms. Lewis, offered information and recommendations to help business owners succeed.

Former Army OSBP Deputy Director Speaks to Veteran Small Business Program Graduates

The 2014 certified Montgomery County Chamber of Commerce graduating VIP Service-Disable and Veteran Owned small business participants.

Federal agencies speak to 2014 49 VIP graduates. Speakers from left to right Ms. Teresa L.G Lewis, Director, HHS OSDBU; Ms. Jackie Robinson-Burnette, former Deputy Director, Army OSBP; Mr. Maurico Vera, Director, USAID OSDBU and moderator Mr. Robert Bailey,

President,BIT-Consultants, LLC.

These included tips for submitting complete and accurate proposals, networking, and submitting effective capability briefings.

Ms. Robinson-Burnette encouraged the graduates to consider mentor-protégé programs as a means to attain training, mentorship, and growth. She also remarked that it is important for companies to contact contracting offices and small business specialists to create a relationship with the customer. “Find out what the need is from the customer and truly determine if your company is able and capable of providing that service,” she said.

Mr. Vera encouraged business owners to look outside of the norm and consider international opportunities, which have been steadily increasing for small businesses.

Ms. Robinson-Burnette closed the ceremony by congratulating the graduates and assisting with the awarding of the VIP certificates and Congressional citations from each graduate’s home state. ■


Ms. Jackie Robinson-Burnette, former Deputy Director, Army OSBP, with Mr. Ron Washington, CEO, AirGo, a Service-

Disabled Veteran-Owned Small Business. Mr. Washington is one of the 49 certified graduates of the 2014 Veteran Institute

for Procurement training.

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The 2014 Federal Infrastructure & Environmental Summit (FEDCON) was held at the Wilmington

Convention Center October 15 and 16, 2014. The event was sponsored by the North Carolina Military Business Center (NCMBC) and U.S. Senator Richard Burr, R-N.C. Approximately 600 attendees, 82 exhibitors, and 24 federal agencies participated in the event.

The U. S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE), Wilmington District provided a site visit for conference attendees to the fish passage at Lock and Dam 1 along the Cape Fear River on October 15. Approximately 40 FEDCON attendees participated in the visit. The fish passage was constructed by Cape Romain Contractors and Pre Con Marine, both small businesses. This fish passage enables fish to swim upstream without using the lock system and is the first of its kind built on the East Coast.

Senator Burr provided the opening remarks and officially kicked off the

FEDCON Summit on October 16.Mr. Scott Dorney, Executive Director, North Carolina Military Business Center, provided the welcoming remarks to all attendees and exhibitors. Mr. Dorney discussed the importance of bringing federal agencies and small and large businesses together in one forum to discuss future opportunities for North Carolina companies.

COL Donald Walker, Deputy Commander, USACE South Atlantic Division, provided remarks during lunch and discussed the impact sequestration had on the USACE budget.

Several business sessions were held during the day. Representatives from the USACE Wilmington, Charlestonand Savannah Districts; Naval Facilities Engineering Command, Mid-Atlantic, U.S. Navy; U.S. MarinesCorps; U.S. Coast Guard; Veterans Administration; national Park Service; GSA and USDA Forest ParkService participated in FEDCON.

All agencies presented their forecasts and talked about business opportunities during the various sessions that were held throughout the day.

COL Kevin P. Landers, Commander, USACE Wilmington District, and Ms. Donna Walton, Deputy of Small Business, USACE Wilmington, participated in meet & greet sessions with attendees.

The summit is a forum for both federal agencies and businesses to find out what opportunities are in the marketplace. FEDCON 2015 will be held at the Wilmington Convention Center October 28 and 29, 2015. ■

Submitted by:Ms. Donna WaltonDeputy for Small BusinessUSACE, Wilmington District

USACE Wilmington District Attends the Federal Infrastructure & Environmental Summit

Mr. Kenyata L. WesleyCOL Steven A. Baker, Army Special Operations Command Combat Engineer, listens to COL Kevin P. Landers, Sr., Wilmington District

Commander, give contractors a briefing on District construction opportunities for small business during the Army and Air Force Issues Panel at the 2014 Federal Construction, Infrastructure & Environment (FEDCON) Summit on October 16 at the Wilmington Convention Center.

FEDCON Summit attendees view the newly constructed fish passage at Lock and Dam 1 along the Cape Fear River.

COL Donald Walker, Deputy Commander, South Atlantic Division, U.S. Army Corps of Engineers talks to small business contractors during one of the breaks at the FEDCON Summit.

Mr. Scott Dorney, NC Military Business Center Executive Director, talks to Ms. Donna Walton, Wilmington District Small

Business Director during a break at the FEDCON Summit.

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The 2014 Federal Infrastructure & Environmental Summit (FEDCON) was held at the Wilmington

Convention Center October 15 and 16, 2014. The event was sponsored by the North Carolina Military Business Center (NCMBC) and U.S. Senator Richard Burr, R-N.C. Approximately 600 attendees, 82 exhibitors, and 24 federal agencies participated in the event.

The U. S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE), Wilmington District provided a site visit for conference attendees to the fish passage at Lock and Dam 1 along the Cape Fear River on October 15. Approximately 40 FEDCON attendees participated in the visit. The fish passage was constructed by Cape Romain Contractors and Pre Con Marine, both small businesses. This fish passage enables fish to swim upstream without using the lock system and is the first of its kind built on the East Coast.

Senator Burr provided the opening remarks and officially kicked off the

FEDCON Summit on October 16.Mr. Scott Dorney, Executive Director, North Carolina Military Business Center, provided the welcoming remarks to all attendees and exhibitors. Mr. Dorney discussed the importance of bringing federal agencies and small and large businesses together in one forum to discuss future opportunities for North Carolina companies.

COL Donald Walker, Deputy Commander, USACE South Atlantic Division, provided remarks during lunch and discussed the impact sequestration had on the USACE budget.

Several business sessions were held during the day. Representatives from the USACE Wilmington, Charlestonand Savannah Districts; Naval Facilities Engineering Command, Mid-Atlantic, U.S. Navy; U.S. MarinesCorps; U.S. Coast Guard; Veterans Administration; national Park Service; GSA and USDA Forest ParkService participated in FEDCON.

All agencies presented their forecasts and talked about business opportunities during the various sessions that were held throughout the day.

COL Kevin P. Landers, Commander, USACE Wilmington District, and Ms. Donna Walton, Deputy of Small Business, USACE Wilmington, participated in meet & greet sessions with attendees.

The summit is a forum for both federal agencies and businesses to find out what opportunities are in the marketplace. FEDCON 2015 will be held at the Wilmington Convention Center October 28 and 29, 2015. ■

Submitted by:Ms. Donna WaltonDeputy for Small BusinessUSACE, Wilmington District

USACE Wilmington District Attends the Federal Infrastructure & Environmental Summit

Mr. Kenyata L. WesleyCOL Steven A. Baker, Army Special Operations Command Combat Engineer, listens to COL Kevin P. Landers, Sr., Wilmington District

Commander, give contractors a briefing on District construction opportunities for small business during the Army and Air Force Issues Panel at the 2014 Federal Construction, Infrastructure & Environment (FEDCON) Summit on October 16 at the Wilmington Convention Center.

FEDCON Summit attendees view the newly constructed fish passage at Lock and Dam 1 along the Cape Fear River.

COL Donald Walker, Deputy Commander, South Atlantic Division, U.S. Army Corps of Engineers talks to small business contractors during one of the breaks at the FEDCON Summit.

Mr. Scott Dorney, NC Military Business Center Executive Director, talks to Ms. Donna Walton, Wilmington District Small

Business Director during a break at the FEDCON Summit.

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Anniston Army Depot’s (ANAD) OSBP hosted its first Vendor Day October 15 and 16. More than 80 representatives from 46 small and large businesses

visited the installation. The event had two purposes:

1. To help businesses better understand the depot’s production and manufacturing operations

2. To provide opportunities to match commercial products and services to depot needs with the goal of finding ways to increase efficiency, cut costs and improve productivity.

Vendors toured production areas and spoke with depot employees and managers to learn more about how their companies may help the installation with quality and process improvements. ■

Submitted by:Mr. Gregory A. WynneAssistant DirectorOffice of Small Business ProgramsAnniston Army Depot

Anniston Army Depot Holds First Vendor Day

Mr. Chris Williams, far right, division chief, Turbine Drive Train Division, Anniston Army Depot, showcases components of the AGT1500 engine to vendors who toured the installation as part of Vendor Day.

Mr. Gregory A. Wynne, Assistant Director, OSBP, Anniston Army Depot, provides the orientation briefing during the first

Anniston Army Depot Vendor Day on October 15 and 16, 2014.

Mr. Jody Owens, far right, discusses Stryker reset and repair operations with potential vendors in the Combat Vehicle Repair

Facility during Vendor Day

Utilizing the support of various federal small business resources and the Small Business Administration (SBA) 8(a) program, A. Bright Idea, LLC (ABI) has grown from a home-

based business to a full-service agency employing nearly 40 staff members in offices on the East and West coasts.

Upon starting out in 1996, ABI’s founder Ms. Anita Brightman possessed the skills for success in advertising, public relations, graphic design, and interactive and multimedia services, but knew that a vision which included serving the federal government had numerous potential pitfalls. For initial guidance and support toward that goal, ABI utilized the services of the county’s Small Business Resource Center, now known as the Small Business Development Center (SBDC). In addition to discussing the value of building past performance at the subcontract level, SBDC suggested that ABI consider enrolling in the SBA’s 8(a) program to allow ABI additional support as a woman-owned small business competing in the federal marketplace.

Ms. Brightman decided that initially her priority would be to build past performance and expand personnel. ABI began as a subcontractor for Michael Baker Corporation in support of the Directorate of Public Works at Aberdeen Proving Ground, and as a subcontractor for Booz Allen Hamilton in support of the Army Program Manager for Chemical Demilitarization, now known as the Army Chemical Materials Activity (CMA). These relationships and successful past performance became the catalyst for future subcontract awards from L-3 Communications, URS Corporation, and Science Applications International Corporation, developing into larger and larger subcontracts with expanded program requirements. At the same time, ABI expanded their retail business working in the banking, healthcare, and education industry, to diversify and grow the portfolio.

However, it was a passing conversation one afternoon, with the late Mr. Miguel “Mickey” Morales, public affairs officer for the former Soldier and Biological Chemical Command (SBCCOM), which gave Ms. Brightman the nudge to complete the application for the SBA’s 8(a) certification. With the help of the SBDC, A. Bright Idea was accepted into the 8(a) program in 2006.

“In working with the Small Business resources provided, we knew that there were people working behind the scenes to help us move forward,” Ms. Brightman stated. “Without the numerous individuals I met along this journey, I would not have been encouraged to make some of the key decisions that propelled A. Bright Idea in the right direction at the right time, growing at a rate that would ensure our sustainability – not just for us, but for the sake of our employees.”

Under the CMA Chemical Stockpile Elimination Program, the Army was undertaking a critical and high-visibility mission for the safe treatment and disposal of chemical agents and weapons at various stockpile sites using advanced incineration and neutralization technologies. ABI’s excellent performance as a public affairs support subcontractor enabled the Army to keep the public informed of the stockpile elimination’s progress and reinforced the Army’s partnership with the surrounding communities. This success attracted the attention of Mr. Jacob Chieffo of the RDECOM OSBP, as well as Mr. Eric Braerman, Contracting Officer, Edgewood Contracting Division, Army Contracting Command (ACC) Aberdeen Proving Ground, who were servicing the CMA mission and saw an opportunity to transition the public affairs component of the CMA engineering support contract to a competent 8(a) small business.

RDECOM considers small businesses to be an integral and vital resource in achieving their mission of providing integrated research, development, and engineering solutions to empower, unburden, protect, and sustain the Warfighter. RDECOM and ACC’s aggressive small business prime contract award goals further empowered Mr. Chieffo and Mr. Braerman to re-envision the public affairs acquisition strategy with CMA program officials, creating the environment for ABI to be considered as a new prime contractor. ABI had supported this client for more than 15 years as a subcontractor and, via the 8(a) program, was able to step into the forefront as a prime contractor. “It was like coming full-circle,” says Ms. Brightman because this opportunity was related to the Army’s chemical weapons disposal program. “This was the project that started my career as a public affairs contractor and the program my business supported as a subcontractor every year thereafter. It’s unbelievably rewarding.”

ABI has continued to expand their clientele, this year securing contract awards with the National Institute on Drug Abuse; SBA Office of the National Ombudsman; DoD Education Activity; Army 20th Chemical, Biological, Radiological, Nuclear Defense and Explosives Command; and the Army National Guard.

Transitioning from a small business in need of support to one which serves in a mentorship role for other aspiring small business leaders, ABI gives back by presenting at events held by support organizations such as the SBDC, and the Minority Business Enterprise University, hosted by the Governor’s Office of Minority Affairs. By forging relationships with other small businesses, ABI is able to share their expertise in drafting successful proposals, navigating the 8(a) process, and getting onto the GSA schedules. ■

Submitted by:Mr. Jacob ChieffoSmall Business SpecialistArmy Research, Development and Engineering Command

Small Business Highlight: A. Bright Idea, LLC

Ms. Anita Brightman, President and CEO, A. Bright Idea, LLC, and Mr. Jimmie Cummings, Director of Government Services,

A. Bright Idea, LLC, attended the 2014 National 8(a) Conference held in Florida.

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Anniston Army Depot’s (ANAD) OSBP hosted its first Vendor Day October 15 and 16. More than 80 representatives from 46 small and large businesses

visited the installation. The event had two purposes:

1. To help businesses better understand the depot’s production and manufacturing operations

2. To provide opportunities to match commercial products and services to depot needs with the goal of finding ways to increase efficiency, cut costs and improve productivity.

Vendors toured production areas and spoke with depot employees and managers to learn more about how their companies may help the installation with quality and process improvements. ■

Submitted by:Mr. Gregory A. WynneAssistant DirectorOffice of Small Business ProgramsAnniston Army Depot

Anniston Army Depot Holds First Vendor Day

Mr. Chris Williams, far right, division chief, Turbine Drive Train Division, Anniston Army Depot, showcases components of the AGT1500 engine to vendors who toured the installation as part of Vendor Day.

Mr. Gregory A. Wynne, Assistant Director, OSBP, Anniston Army Depot, provides the orientation briefing during the first

Anniston Army Depot Vendor Day on October 15 and 16, 2014.

Mr. Jody Owens, far right, discusses Stryker reset and repair operations with potential vendors in the Combat Vehicle Repair

Facility during Vendor Day

Utilizing the support of various federal small business resources and the Small Business Administration (SBA) 8(a) program, A. Bright Idea, LLC (ABI) has grown from a home-

based business to a full-service agency employing nearly 40 staff members in offices on the East and West coasts.

Upon starting out in 1996, ABI’s founder Ms. Anita Brightman possessed the skills for success in advertising, public relations, graphic design, and interactive and multimedia services, but knew that a vision which included serving the federal government had numerous potential pitfalls. For initial guidance and support toward that goal, ABI utilized the services of the county’s Small Business Resource Center, now known as the Small Business Development Center (SBDC). In addition to discussing the value of building past performance at the subcontract level, SBDC suggested that ABI consider enrolling in the SBA’s 8(a) program to allow ABI additional support as a woman-owned small business competing in the federal marketplace.

Ms. Brightman decided that initially her priority would be to build past performance and expand personnel. ABI began as a subcontractor for Michael Baker Corporation in support of the Directorate of Public Works at Aberdeen Proving Ground, and as a subcontractor for Booz Allen Hamilton in support of the Army Program Manager for Chemical Demilitarization, now known as the Army Chemical Materials Activity (CMA). These relationships and successful past performance became the catalyst for future subcontract awards from L-3 Communications, URS Corporation, and Science Applications International Corporation, developing into larger and larger subcontracts with expanded program requirements. At the same time, ABI expanded their retail business working in the banking, healthcare, and education industry, to diversify and grow the portfolio.

However, it was a passing conversation one afternoon, with the late Mr. Miguel “Mickey” Morales, public affairs officer for the former Soldier and Biological Chemical Command (SBCCOM), which gave Ms. Brightman the nudge to complete the application for the SBA’s 8(a) certification. With the help of the SBDC, A. Bright Idea was accepted into the 8(a) program in 2006.

“In working with the Small Business resources provided, we knew that there were people working behind the scenes to help us move forward,” Ms. Brightman stated. “Without the numerous individuals I met along this journey, I would not have been encouraged to make some of the key decisions that propelled A. Bright Idea in the right direction at the right time, growing at a rate that would ensure our sustainability – not just for us, but for the sake of our employees.”

Under the CMA Chemical Stockpile Elimination Program, the Army was undertaking a critical and high-visibility mission for the safe treatment and disposal of chemical agents and weapons at various stockpile sites using advanced incineration and neutralization technologies. ABI’s excellent performance as a public affairs support subcontractor enabled the Army to keep the public informed of the stockpile elimination’s progress and reinforced the Army’s partnership with the surrounding communities. This success attracted the attention of Mr. Jacob Chieffo of the RDECOM OSBP, as well as Mr. Eric Braerman, Contracting Officer, Edgewood Contracting Division, Army Contracting Command (ACC) Aberdeen Proving Ground, who were servicing the CMA mission and saw an opportunity to transition the public affairs component of the CMA engineering support contract to a competent 8(a) small business.

RDECOM considers small businesses to be an integral and vital resource in achieving their mission of providing integrated research, development, and engineering solutions to empower, unburden, protect, and sustain the Warfighter. RDECOM and ACC’s aggressive small business prime contract award goals further empowered Mr. Chieffo and Mr. Braerman to re-envision the public affairs acquisition strategy with CMA program officials, creating the environment for ABI to be considered as a new prime contractor. ABI had supported this client for more than 15 years as a subcontractor and, via the 8(a) program, was able to step into the forefront as a prime contractor. “It was like coming full-circle,” says Ms. Brightman because this opportunity was related to the Army’s chemical weapons disposal program. “This was the project that started my career as a public affairs contractor and the program my business supported as a subcontractor every year thereafter. It’s unbelievably rewarding.”

ABI has continued to expand their clientele, this year securing contract awards with the National Institute on Drug Abuse; SBA Office of the National Ombudsman; DoD Education Activity; Army 20th Chemical, Biological, Radiological, Nuclear Defense and Explosives Command; and the Army National Guard.

Transitioning from a small business in need of support to one which serves in a mentorship role for other aspiring small business leaders, ABI gives back by presenting at events held by support organizations such as the SBDC, and the Minority Business Enterprise University, hosted by the Governor’s Office of Minority Affairs. By forging relationships with other small businesses, ABI is able to share their expertise in drafting successful proposals, navigating the 8(a) process, and getting onto the GSA schedules. ■

Submitted by:Mr. Jacob ChieffoSmall Business SpecialistArmy Research, Development and Engineering Command

Small Business Highlight: A. Bright Idea, LLC

Ms. Anita Brightman, President and CEO, A. Bright Idea, LLC, and Mr. Jimmie Cummings, Director of Government Services,

A. Bright Idea, LLC, attended the 2014 National 8(a) Conference held in Florida.

Page 9 Page 10


During a training event on November 5, 2014, Army Medical Research and Materiel

Command (USAMRMC) OSBP formally recognized the efforts of the entire Army Medical Research Acquisition Activity (USAMRAA) acquisition workforce. Each USAMRAA Group Chief and Branch Chief received a plaque which highlighted their collective efforts.

USAMRMC FY14 small business accomplishments epitomized the collaborative, mutually beneficial working relationship between the small business office and other members of the acquisition workforce. USAMRMC met or exceeded four out of five Army-assigned small business goals, while achieving 98.6% of its HUBZone target. These achievements are a result of advanced acquisition planning, in-depth market research and overall commitment to provide maximum opportunities for small business firms (either as a prime or subcontractor).

USAMRMC is the Army medical materiel developer with responsibility for medical research, advanced development, and medical logistics. USAMRMC expertise in these critical areas contributes significantly to the health care of our military service members, as well as their families, our veterans, and the general public. ■

Submitted by:Mr. Jerome K. MaultsbyAssociate DirectorUSAMRMC OSBP

“The truth is we couldn’t deliver our programs without them – when you get to the actual

execution of projects, there’s a business that’s part of our team. We need them to get the work done,” Col. Robert J. Ruch said during the U.S. Army Engineering and Support Center, Huntsville’s Small Business Forum Oct. 15 in Huntsville, Alabama. The commander spoke to approximately 250 business owners and representatives about Huntsville Center’s mission and potential opportunities to work with the center in the coming years.

“We are really proud of the work we did here,” Ruch said in highlighting some of the center’s fiscal year 2014 small business goals and achievements. The center exceeded its 36 percent small business goal by 7 percent and met the Service Disabled-Veteran Owned Small Business goal for the first time, achieving 3 percent against a goal

of 2.5 percent. He also shared that Huntsville Center made the largest-ever federal award to a Service Disabled-Veteran Owned Small Business set-aside contract just before the end of the fiscal year. The $23,526,676 contract was awarded to Herman/JCG CoJoint Venture to renovate the Old Guard Barracks at Joint Base Myer-Henderson Hall in Virginia.

Ruch stressed the center’s skill in centrally managing large-scale programs and its various areas of specialized expertise that set it apart in the Army Corps of Engineers, as well as the importance of partnering with quality contractors to perform the work. “Every one of my customers who comes to me gets a vote; they don’t have to come back to me the next time – kind of like the world you live in,” he explained to the packed room at the Jackson Center in Cummings Research Park. “It’s very important that we execute every

project well. You folks are doing that for us.” Huntsville Center’s Director of Contracting Colleen O’Keefe emphasized how critical it is for businesses to provide feedback to the contracting office to improve the process and provide the best project outcomes.

“We do send out a lot of requests for information and draft [requests for proposal] because we are looking for responses from industry,” O’Keefe said. “We really want you to tell us, ‘Does this make sense?’ ‘Is this the way that your industry does business?’ ‘Have we put something in there that’s proprietary?’ We need that information because we are not necessarily the experts in it, you are.”

Ruch added that the small business forum is a great tool for the center because if every one of the hundreds of people attending wanted to come through the center individually, it would be impossible for program managers to break free from what they are doing to talk to them all. He said offering this forum once a year lets business representatives talk directly to program managers and begin to develop relationships that will benefit both the center and small businesses.

“There’s been a gradual shift in the center’s culture over the past few years to think small business first when a requirement is identified,” said Rebecca Vucinaj, chief of the center’s Office of Small Business Programs. “Every one of us at the center realizes the fact that we are making a difference in supporting our nation’s economy by awarding contracts to small business concerns. We set a phenomenal record this year by achieving 43 percent – absolutely astounding! When you consider some of the highly complex and extremely large awards we make that are not necessarily a good match for small businesses, I could not be prouder

USAMRMC OSBP Recognizes Acquisition Workforce

Small Businesses Essential to Huntsville Center Success

Army Medical Research Acquisition Activity workforce receives recognition from the Army Medical Research and Materiel Command Office of Small Business Programs at a

training event on November 5, 2014.

of the center’s achievements this past year.” “Because we break out the programs after the presentation, companies get to talk one-on-one to contracting officers and program managers. They get to network and explain their capabilities to us, and we have the opportunity to see if their capabilities could potentially support our programs,” said Dennis Bacon, Huntsville Center’s DLA Fuels Program manager

The Army Corps of Engineers is so supportive of the small business community, reaching out to small businesses and bringing them on board, Ruch said. “I don’t think there’s an organization in the Army or maybe even the federal government that does as much outreach and is as successful in using small business to support the programs for our Soldiers and family members.”

Of the $1.8 billion eligible for award to small business concerns, Huntsville Center awarded more than $782 million. ■

Submitted by:Ms. Julia BobickU.S. Army Engineering and Support Center, Huntsville

Mr. Len Iseldyke from D2Team-Sim discusses his firm’s capabilities with Ms. Crystal Bennett-Echols and Mr. Wes Turner of the Installation Support and Programs

Management Directorate’s Medical Division programs during the center’s Small Business Forum Oct. 15 at Jackson Center in Cummings Research Park. (Photo by Julia Bobick)

Ms. Lillian Fox talks with a potential contractor about the Information

Technology Services Program, one of the fastest growing programs within

Huntsville Center. (Photo by Julia Bobick)

Page 9 Page 10


During a training event on November 5, 2014, Army Medical Research and Materiel

Command (USAMRMC) OSBP formally recognized the efforts of the entire Army Medical Research Acquisition Activity (USAMRAA) acquisition workforce. Each USAMRAA Group Chief and Branch Chief received a plaque which highlighted their collective efforts.

USAMRMC FY14 small business accomplishments epitomized the collaborative, mutually beneficial working relationship between the small business office and other members of the acquisition workforce. USAMRMC met or exceeded four out of five Army-assigned small business goals, while achieving 98.6% of its HUBZone target. These achievements are a result of advanced acquisition planning, in-depth market research and overall commitment to provide maximum opportunities for small business firms (either as a prime or subcontractor).

USAMRMC is the Army medical materiel developer with responsibility for medical research, advanced development, and medical logistics. USAMRMC expertise in these critical areas contributes significantly to the health care of our military service members, as well as their families, our veterans, and the general public. ■

Submitted by:Mr. Jerome K. MaultsbyAssociate DirectorUSAMRMC OSBP

“The truth is we couldn’t deliver our programs without them – when you get to the actual

execution of projects, there’s a business that’s part of our team. We need them to get the work done,” Col. Robert J. Ruch said during the U.S. Army Engineering and Support Center, Huntsville’s Small Business Forum Oct. 15 in Huntsville, Alabama. The commander spoke to approximately 250 business owners and representatives about Huntsville Center’s mission and potential opportunities to work with the center in the coming years.

“We are really proud of the work we did here,” Ruch said in highlighting some of the center’s fiscal year 2014 small business goals and achievements. The center exceeded its 36 percent small business goal by 7 percent and met the Service Disabled-Veteran Owned Small Business goal for the first time, achieving 3 percent against a goal

of 2.5 percent. He also shared that Huntsville Center made the largest-ever federal award to a Service Disabled-Veteran Owned Small Business set-aside contract just before the end of the fiscal year. The $23,526,676 contract was awarded to Herman/JCG CoJoint Venture to renovate the Old Guard Barracks at Joint Base Myer-Henderson Hall in Virginia.

Ruch stressed the center’s skill in centrally managing large-scale programs and its various areas of specialized expertise that set it apart in the Army Corps of Engineers, as well as the importance of partnering with quality contractors to perform the work. “Every one of my customers who comes to me gets a vote; they don’t have to come back to me the next time – kind of like the world you live in,” he explained to the packed room at the Jackson Center in Cummings Research Park. “It’s very important that we execute every

project well. You folks are doing that for us.” Huntsville Center’s Director of Contracting Colleen O’Keefe emphasized how critical it is for businesses to provide feedback to the contracting office to improve the process and provide the best project outcomes.

“We do send out a lot of requests for information and draft [requests for proposal] because we are looking for responses from industry,” O’Keefe said. “We really want you to tell us, ‘Does this make sense?’ ‘Is this the way that your industry does business?’ ‘Have we put something in there that’s proprietary?’ We need that information because we are not necessarily the experts in it, you are.”

Ruch added that the small business forum is a great tool for the center because if every one of the hundreds of people attending wanted to come through the center individually, it would be impossible for program managers to break free from what they are doing to talk to them all. He said offering this forum once a year lets business representatives talk directly to program managers and begin to develop relationships that will benefit both the center and small businesses.

“There’s been a gradual shift in the center’s culture over the past few years to think small business first when a requirement is identified,” said Rebecca Vucinaj, chief of the center’s Office of Small Business Programs. “Every one of us at the center realizes the fact that we are making a difference in supporting our nation’s economy by awarding contracts to small business concerns. We set a phenomenal record this year by achieving 43 percent – absolutely astounding! When you consider some of the highly complex and extremely large awards we make that are not necessarily a good match for small businesses, I could not be prouder

USAMRMC OSBP Recognizes Acquisition Workforce

Small Businesses Essential to Huntsville Center Success

Army Medical Research Acquisition Activity workforce receives recognition from the Army Medical Research and Materiel Command Office of Small Business Programs at a

training event on November 5, 2014.

of the center’s achievements this past year.” “Because we break out the programs after the presentation, companies get to talk one-on-one to contracting officers and program managers. They get to network and explain their capabilities to us, and we have the opportunity to see if their capabilities could potentially support our programs,” said Dennis Bacon, Huntsville Center’s DLA Fuels Program manager

The Army Corps of Engineers is so supportive of the small business community, reaching out to small businesses and bringing them on board, Ruch said. “I don’t think there’s an organization in the Army or maybe even the federal government that does as much outreach and is as successful in using small business to support the programs for our Soldiers and family members.”

Of the $1.8 billion eligible for award to small business concerns, Huntsville Center awarded more than $782 million. ■

Submitted by:Ms. Julia BobickU.S. Army Engineering and Support Center, Huntsville

Mr. Len Iseldyke from D2Team-Sim discusses his firm’s capabilities with Ms. Crystal Bennett-Echols and Mr. Wes Turner of the Installation Support and Programs

Management Directorate’s Medical Division programs during the center’s Small Business Forum Oct. 15 at Jackson Center in Cummings Research Park. (Photo by Julia Bobick)

Ms. Lillian Fox talks with a potential contractor about the Information

Technology Services Program, one of the fastest growing programs within

Huntsville Center. (Photo by Julia Bobick)

Page 11 Page 12


The Army Contracting Command-Redstone (ACC-RSA) received a requirement for the manufacture and support of Remotely Piloted Vehicle Targets (RPVT) air vehicles,

related support equipment, payload system devices and training. Market research conducted for this effort in 2012 through early 2013 by the ACC-RSA and the Army Aviation and Missile Command (AMCOM) Office of Small Business Programs (OSBP) revealed multiple small businesses capable of providing the support required. Based on market research and an extensive history of small business participation for prior RPVT contracts, the RPVT solicitation was issued as a small business set-aside. in September 2014, ACC-RSA awarded a contract for MQM-170, Outlaw RPVT support to Griffon Aerospace, Inc., a small business located in Madison, AL. The award is a base plus four one-year option contract with a estimated maximum value of $89 million. This award demonstrates that small businesses can meet and exceed the contract performance requirements for the RPVT contract while providing equipment and flight services support to the US Army War Fighter.

Army has been providing aerial targets in support of Air Defense gunners since World War I. The RPVT project was established in 1982 and supports two Army Training and Doctrine Command (TRADOC) requirements for a Hostile Expendable Aerial Target and a scoring miss distance indicator.

Department of Defense acquisition programs employ aerial targets in the development and testing of new weapon systems. An example of an unmanned aerial target is the MQM-170, Outlaw, family of RPVT. When used with the Avenger air defense weapon system, the RPVT supports tracking and live fire training on Department of Defense and Allied training ranges worldwide. The aerial target is also employed on Department of Defense test ranges to support system development and test operations. The RPVT System is managed by Mr. Brian Whitaker, Project Director, Air Defense Artillery Targets, for the Targets Management Office (TMO) at Redstone Arsenal, AL. The TMO is a subordinate element of the Project Manager for Instrumentation, Targets and Threat Simulators’ (PM ITTS), which is assigned to the Program Executive Office for Simulation, Training, & Instrumentation (PEO STRI), both of which are located in Orlando, FL. ■

Submitted by:Ms. Mary BirdsongAssociate Director, Acting, AMCOM OSBP

Small Business Highlight: ACC Redstone Awards Remotely Piloted Vehicle Target to Small Business

MQM-170C, Outlaw, Remotely Piloted Vehicle flies in the vicinity of Point Mugu Naval Air Station, CA, in support of the Joint Staff Black Dart Counter Unmanned Aircraft Systems exercise

An Avenger air defense system engages an MQM-170A, Outlaw RPVT at Fort Bliss, TX.

Communications Electronics Command (CECOM) Software Engineering Center (SEC) under

Director Mr. Larry M. Muzzelo’s leadership is promoting opportunities for Historically Underutilized Business Zones (HUBZones) to obtain more SEC contract awards.

The HUBZone program has served as one of the Small Business Administration’s (SBA) signature initiatives and has helped small businesses in urban and rural communities gain preferential access to federal procurement opportunities. The program encourages economic development and employment growth in distressed areas by providing opportunities for firms to become active participants in the federal supply chain.

Under Mr. Muzzelo’s leadership, total prime contract dollars awarded by SEC to HUBZone businesses sextupled from

$470 thousand in FY13 to $2.9 million in FY14, the highest recorded improvement in CECOM history.

This success has resulted in the creation of jobs, alleviating some poverty and reducing unemployment in our nation’s most vulnerable communities. The SEC small business program has had a transformational effect on small businesses far beyond the Command, Control, Communications, Computers, Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance (C4ISR) community. This practice certainly deserves a spotlight for promoting small business programs and encourages the use of HUBZone companies as ideal organizations with which the government can do business.

According to Ms. Maria Contreras-Sweet, SBA Administrator, in FY13, HUBZone businesses only received 1.7 percent of federal contracts, well short

of our three percent goal.” Mr. Muzzelo’s transformational leadership style is an example of how a command can actively work together to achieve not only their goals, but also contribute to overall Army and Federal HUBZone goals. CECOM SEC OSBP has mastered an approach which consists of analyzing ideal situations for successful small business collaboration with specific emphasis on HUBZones. Harnessing the power of market research, fostering industry growth by recruitment of more firms for HUBZone participation for future requirements, and awarding more sole-source and set-aside awards directly for HUBZones is definitely a grassroots approach. ■

Submitted by:Ms. Stacey GaddisDeputy Associate Director CECOM OSBP

CECOM Software Engineering Center Excels in HUBZone Utilization

The Mission and Installation Contracting Command (MICC) awarded almost $2.4 billion to small

businesses in FY14. This is 48 percent of the $5.6 billion in total small-business eligible contracting dollars awarded in support of Army commands, installations and activities across the Department of Defense that year.

“What the numbers don’t show are the long hours, selfless sacrifices and superior dedication it takes from our team of professionals to accomplish our mission,” said BG Jeffrey Gabbert, MICC Commanding General. “Fiscal 2014 was a tremendous success for the MICC, and I’m confident that our team will continue to do great things for our Soldiers, their families and the Army this fiscal year.”

Almost half of the $2.4 billion in contracts awarded to small businesses came in the final quarter of the fiscal year, following an extensive outreach effort by MICC small business specialists across the command in June and July.

“The tremendous effort put forth by our small business specialists was a major contributor

in the MICC exceeding its small business goal for the second year in a row,” said Mr. Mark Massie, Associate Director, MICC OSBP. “The MICC’s acquisition forecast open house events were a total success in providing transparency to industry and giving them the information needed to pursue future opportunities. This was evident in the MICC surpassing four of five small business goals, a first since fiscal 2010.”

The command’s 48 percent small business achievement exceeded its 45.8 percent goal for FY14. MICC also awarded the following amounts in the goaled socioeconomic categories:

• Small disadvantaged business, $1.3 billion

• Service-disabled veteran-owned small business, $477 million

• Women-owned small business, $462 million

• Historically Underutilized Business Zone (HUBZone) small business, $314 million

Although efforts in meeting the HUBZone small business goal fell short, Mr. Massie said the value of contracts awarded during

FY14 in that socioeconomic category exceeded the previous year by more than $35 million.

MICC small business specialists advocate on behalf of small businesses throughout the country to ensure small businesses have the maximum opportunity to compete for Army contracts. Dollars awarded to small business contractors help support the achievement of annual government-wide goals required by the Small Business Act.

The $5.6 billion in contract actions awarded command-wide in FY14 is approximately $300 million greater than the previous fiscal year. Mr. Pat Hogston, the director of contract support integration at the MICC, said this reflects a return to stable spending after the impact of sequestration and operational budget cuts. Contracts executed by the MICC totaled $7 billion and $6.3 billion in FY11 and FY12, respectively. ■

Submitted by:Mr. Daniel P. ElkinsMission and Installation Contracting Command Public Affairs Office

MICC Executes Almost $2.4 Billion in FY14 Small Business Contracts

Page 11 Page 12


The Army Contracting Command-Redstone (ACC-RSA) received a requirement for the manufacture and support of Remotely Piloted Vehicle Targets (RPVT) air vehicles,

related support equipment, payload system devices and training. Market research conducted for this effort in 2012 through early 2013 by the ACC-RSA and the Army Aviation and Missile Command (AMCOM) Office of Small Business Programs (OSBP) revealed multiple small businesses capable of providing the support required. Based on market research and an extensive history of small business participation for prior RPVT contracts, the RPVT solicitation was issued as a small business set-aside. in September 2014, ACC-RSA awarded a contract for MQM-170, Outlaw RPVT support to Griffon Aerospace, Inc., a small business located in Madison, AL. The award is a base plus four one-year option contract with a estimated maximum value of $89 million. This award demonstrates that small businesses can meet and exceed the contract performance requirements for the RPVT contract while providing equipment and flight services support to the US Army War Fighter.

Army has been providing aerial targets in support of Air Defense gunners since World War I. The RPVT project was established in 1982 and supports two Army Training and Doctrine Command (TRADOC) requirements for a Hostile Expendable Aerial Target and a scoring miss distance indicator.

Department of Defense acquisition programs employ aerial targets in the development and testing of new weapon systems. An example of an unmanned aerial target is the MQM-170, Outlaw, family of RPVT. When used with the Avenger air defense weapon system, the RPVT supports tracking and live fire training on Department of Defense and Allied training ranges worldwide. The aerial target is also employed on Department of Defense test ranges to support system development and test operations. The RPVT System is managed by Mr. Brian Whitaker, Project Director, Air Defense Artillery Targets, for the Targets Management Office (TMO) at Redstone Arsenal, AL. The TMO is a subordinate element of the Project Manager for Instrumentation, Targets and Threat Simulators’ (PM ITTS), which is assigned to the Program Executive Office for Simulation, Training, & Instrumentation (PEO STRI), both of which are located in Orlando, FL. ■

Submitted by:Ms. Mary BirdsongAssociate Director, Acting, AMCOM OSBP

Small Business Highlight: ACC Redstone Awards Remotely Piloted Vehicle Target to Small Business

MQM-170C, Outlaw, Remotely Piloted Vehicle flies in the vicinity of Point Mugu Naval Air Station, CA, in support of the Joint Staff Black Dart Counter Unmanned Aircraft Systems exercise

An Avenger air defense system engages an MQM-170A, Outlaw RPVT at Fort Bliss, TX.

Communications Electronics Command (CECOM) Software Engineering Center (SEC) under

Director Mr. Larry M. Muzzelo’s leadership is promoting opportunities for Historically Underutilized Business Zones (HUBZones) to obtain more SEC contract awards.

The HUBZone program has served as one of the Small Business Administration’s (SBA) signature initiatives and has helped small businesses in urban and rural communities gain preferential access to federal procurement opportunities. The program encourages economic development and employment growth in distressed areas by providing opportunities for firms to become active participants in the federal supply chain.

Under Mr. Muzzelo’s leadership, total prime contract dollars awarded by SEC to HUBZone businesses sextupled from

$470 thousand in FY13 to $2.9 million in FY14, the highest recorded improvement in CECOM history.

This success has resulted in the creation of jobs, alleviating some poverty and reducing unemployment in our nation’s most vulnerable communities. The SEC small business program has had a transformational effect on small businesses far beyond the Command, Control, Communications, Computers, Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance (C4ISR) community. This practice certainly deserves a spotlight for promoting small business programs and encourages the use of HUBZone companies as ideal organizations with which the government can do business.

According to Ms. Maria Contreras-Sweet, SBA Administrator, in FY13, HUBZone businesses only received 1.7 percent of federal contracts, well short

of our three percent goal.” Mr. Muzzelo’s transformational leadership style is an example of how a command can actively work together to achieve not only their goals, but also contribute to overall Army and Federal HUBZone goals. CECOM SEC OSBP has mastered an approach which consists of analyzing ideal situations for successful small business collaboration with specific emphasis on HUBZones. Harnessing the power of market research, fostering industry growth by recruitment of more firms for HUBZone participation for future requirements, and awarding more sole-source and set-aside awards directly for HUBZones is definitely a grassroots approach. ■

Submitted by:Ms. Stacey GaddisDeputy Associate Director CECOM OSBP

CECOM Software Engineering Center Excels in HUBZone Utilization

The Mission and Installation Contracting Command (MICC) awarded almost $2.4 billion to small

businesses in FY14. This is 48 percent of the $5.6 billion in total small-business eligible contracting dollars awarded in support of Army commands, installations and activities across the Department of Defense that year.

“What the numbers don’t show are the long hours, selfless sacrifices and superior dedication it takes from our team of professionals to accomplish our mission,” said BG Jeffrey Gabbert, MICC Commanding General. “Fiscal 2014 was a tremendous success for the MICC, and I’m confident that our team will continue to do great things for our Soldiers, their families and the Army this fiscal year.”

Almost half of the $2.4 billion in contracts awarded to small businesses came in the final quarter of the fiscal year, following an extensive outreach effort by MICC small business specialists across the command in June and July.

“The tremendous effort put forth by our small business specialists was a major contributor

in the MICC exceeding its small business goal for the second year in a row,” said Mr. Mark Massie, Associate Director, MICC OSBP. “The MICC’s acquisition forecast open house events were a total success in providing transparency to industry and giving them the information needed to pursue future opportunities. This was evident in the MICC surpassing four of five small business goals, a first since fiscal 2010.”

The command’s 48 percent small business achievement exceeded its 45.8 percent goal for FY14. MICC also awarded the following amounts in the goaled socioeconomic categories:

• Small disadvantaged business, $1.3 billion

• Service-disabled veteran-owned small business, $477 million

• Women-owned small business, $462 million

• Historically Underutilized Business Zone (HUBZone) small business, $314 million

Although efforts in meeting the HUBZone small business goal fell short, Mr. Massie said the value of contracts awarded during

FY14 in that socioeconomic category exceeded the previous year by more than $35 million.

MICC small business specialists advocate on behalf of small businesses throughout the country to ensure small businesses have the maximum opportunity to compete for Army contracts. Dollars awarded to small business contractors help support the achievement of annual government-wide goals required by the Small Business Act.

The $5.6 billion in contract actions awarded command-wide in FY14 is approximately $300 million greater than the previous fiscal year. Mr. Pat Hogston, the director of contract support integration at the MICC, said this reflects a return to stable spending after the impact of sequestration and operational budget cuts. Contracts executed by the MICC totaled $7 billion and $6.3 billion in FY11 and FY12, respectively. ■

Submitted by:Mr. Daniel P. ElkinsMission and Installation Contracting Command Public Affairs Office

MICC Executes Almost $2.4 Billion in FY14 Small Business Contracts

Page 13 Page 14


The Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) participated in the Society of American Military Engineers Small Business Conference for Federal, Engineering, Construction and

Environmental Programs in Kansas City, MO, December 9-11, 2014. The conference attracted 1,785 attendees, 18 percent of which were government representatives; 82 percent were from private industry; 62 percent were from small businesses; and 38 percent were from large businesses.

USACE sent 148 leaders, including LTG Thomas P. Bostick, USACE Commanding General; USACE district, center and division commanders; Ms. Grace K. Fontana, Associate Director, USACE OSBP; Mr. Lloyd Caldwell, Director of Military Programs; and Mr. Stuart Hazlett, USACE Director of Contracting. In addition, each USACE division and center had a booth in the exhibit hall. LTG Bostick visited several of the booths and personally met with industry.

The Small Business Conference kicked off with a moving and meaningful commemorative ceremony for Vietnam veterans to honor and thank them for their service. LTG Bostick announced his commitment for USACE participation in the Department of Defense’s national program commemorating the 50th anniversary of the Vietnam War. He invited Vietnam veterans from the audience to join him on stage to be formally recognized while highlighting their continuing excellence.

For the fifth year, USACE exceeded its small business goal, achieving more than 46 percent. USACE works collaboratively with more than 300,000 contractor employees to execute the USACE mission. Small businesses play a major role in the Corps’ success, and are contracted for almost every type of project. The conference is a significant outreach event for USACE where many small firms learn and discuss the Corps’ acquisition forecast of upcoming projects.

The event has contributed to the Corps’ success in facilitating exchanges on scientific, technical and professional issues. The industry engagement (Army engineer to industry engineer) results in innovative solutions to Department of Defense technical and resource challenges involving military construction, water resource management, critical civil works projects, geospatial technology and renewable energy.

Speakers included USACE Safety and General Counsel, as well as Ms. Pamela Monroe, Program Manager, Army Mentor Protégé Program. Naval Facilities Engineering Command; Air Force; General Services Administration; Department of Commerce; Department of Energy; and the Small Business Administration also participated.

“I’ve never been to a conference this big with so many military generals, colonels, small business, and contracting people from one agency. Usually, an agency will send two or three people to a conference,” said CEO of LTD Global, Ms. Lili Tarachand.

President and CEO of GEM Environmental Services, Inc., Mr. Richard Camacho, was also impressed with the huge USACE presence. In his words, “Everyone I met from USACE was very friendly and helpful. I left this conference with great info and knowledge on how to bid and win contracts for my 8(a) firm.”

The event concluded with a USACE Small Business Awards Ceremony hosted by LTG Bostick, and moderated by Ms. Fontana. Award winners are shown below. ■

USACE commanders and civilian employees recognized for exceptional support of theArmy Small Business Program

(spending data as of the time of the awards)

Top 10 District/Center Commanders in Dollars Awarded to SDVOSB

1. Los Angeles $97.8M COL Kimberly Colloton2. Mobile $87.4M COL Jon Chytka 3. Huntsville $57.2M COL Robert Ruch 4. Fort Worth $51.5M LTC William Craig 5. Savannah $51.0M COL Tom Tickner 6. New Orleans $48.9M COL Rich Hansen 7. Omaha $41.3M COL Joel Cross 8. Sacramento $39.6M COL Mike Farrell 9. Louisville $38.8M COL Chris Beck 10. Seattle $35.3M COL John Buck

Top 10 District/Centers in Percentages of Dollars Awarded to SDVOSB

1. ERDC (Labs) 21.70% COL Jeffrey Eckstein2. Los Angeles 14.10% COL Kimberly Colloton 3. Norfolk 13.90% COL Paul Olsen4. Mobile 13.40% COL Jon Chytka5. Albuquerque 12.10% LTC Patrick Dagon6. Seattle 12.00% COL John Buck 7. Rock Island 11.60% COL Mark Deschenes8. Savannah 10.50% COL Tom Tickner 9. Fort Worth 10.20% LTC William Craig10. Sacramento 9.20% COL Mike Farrell

Top WOSB Award Recipients

• Top Division by $ - South Pacific Division $194M• Top Division by % - South Pacific Division 14%• Top District by $ - Los Angeles $108M• Top District by % - ERDC 47%

Top Small Disadvantaged Business Award Recipients

• Top Division by $ - Southwestern Division $607M• Top Division by % - Pacific Ocean Division 44%• Top District by $ - Huntsville Center $388M• Top District by % - Los Angeles 74%

Top HUBZone Award Recipients

• Top Division by $ - South Atlantic Division $242M• Top Division by % - Mississippi Valley Division 13%• Top District by $ - New Orleans $115M• Top District by % - Memphis District 33%

Other Award Recipients

COL Richard Gridley SDVOSB Achievement Award: BG R. Mark Toy, South Pacific Division Commander ($166M/12.22%)

Small Business Specialist Award: • Ms. Mary Spencer, Los Angeles & (Acting) San Francisco

District • Ms. Karen Brady, Memphis District

Division Small Business Specialist Award: • Ms. Melea Crouse, Southwestern Division

Small Business Champion Awards

• Mr. Randall L. Bowker, Head Alaska District Engineers Program & Project Mgmt. Div.

• Ms. Lakisha D. Vance, Contracting Officer, Little Rock District• Mr. Douglas A. Summer, Program Manager, New York District• Ms. Sheila Winston-Vincuilla, District Contracting Chief, New

England District• LTC Glenn O. Pratt, Portland Deputy District Commander

Submitted by:Ms. Grace K. Fontana, Associate Director, USACE OSBP, and Mr. Stan S. Lee, Assistant Director, USACE South Pacific Division OSBP

Small Business Conference for Federal, Engineering, Construction and Environmental Programs Facilitates Engagement and Provides

Acquisition Forecast to Small Business

Ms. Sherrie Plonski, Small Business Specialist, USACE Pittsburgh/Buffalo District; Ms. Jacque Gee, Small Business

Specialist, USACE Louisville District; Mr. Roy Rossignol, Small Business Specialist; and Ms. Debbie Czewski, Small Business

Specialist, USACE Huntington District, staff the booth.

LTG Thomas P. Bostick, Commander, USACE (fourth from left) with representatives of the top 10 USACE Districts and Centers in dollars awarded to Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned Small Businesses.

Page 13 Page 14


The Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) participated in the Society of American Military Engineers Small Business Conference for Federal, Engineering, Construction and

Environmental Programs in Kansas City, MO, December 9-11, 2014. The conference attracted 1,785 attendees, 18 percent of which were government representatives; 82 percent were from private industry; 62 percent were from small businesses; and 38 percent were from large businesses.

USACE sent 148 leaders, including LTG Thomas P. Bostick, USACE Commanding General; USACE district, center and division commanders; Ms. Grace K. Fontana, Associate Director, USACE OSBP; Mr. Lloyd Caldwell, Director of Military Programs; and Mr. Stuart Hazlett, USACE Director of Contracting. In addition, each USACE division and center had a booth in the exhibit hall. LTG Bostick visited several of the booths and personally met with industry.

The Small Business Conference kicked off with a moving and meaningful commemorative ceremony for Vietnam veterans to honor and thank them for their service. LTG Bostick announced his commitment for USACE participation in the Department of Defense’s national program commemorating the 50th anniversary of the Vietnam War. He invited Vietnam veterans from the audience to join him on stage to be formally recognized while highlighting their continuing excellence.

For the fifth year, USACE exceeded its small business goal, achieving more than 46 percent. USACE works collaboratively with more than 300,000 contractor employees to execute the USACE mission. Small businesses play a major role in the Corps’ success, and are contracted for almost every type of project. The conference is a significant outreach event for USACE where many small firms learn and discuss the Corps’ acquisition forecast of upcoming projects.

The event has contributed to the Corps’ success in facilitating exchanges on scientific, technical and professional issues. The industry engagement (Army engineer to industry engineer) results in innovative solutions to Department of Defense technical and resource challenges involving military construction, water resource management, critical civil works projects, geospatial technology and renewable energy.

Speakers included USACE Safety and General Counsel, as well as Ms. Pamela Monroe, Program Manager, Army Mentor Protégé Program. Naval Facilities Engineering Command; Air Force; General Services Administration; Department of Commerce; Department of Energy; and the Small Business Administration also participated.

“I’ve never been to a conference this big with so many military generals, colonels, small business, and contracting people from one agency. Usually, an agency will send two or three people to a conference,” said CEO of LTD Global, Ms. Lili Tarachand.

President and CEO of GEM Environmental Services, Inc., Mr. Richard Camacho, was also impressed with the huge USACE presence. In his words, “Everyone I met from USACE was very friendly and helpful. I left this conference with great info and knowledge on how to bid and win contracts for my 8(a) firm.”

The event concluded with a USACE Small Business Awards Ceremony hosted by LTG Bostick, and moderated by Ms. Fontana. Award winners are shown below. ■

USACE commanders and civilian employees recognized for exceptional support of theArmy Small Business Program

(spending data as of the time of the awards)

Top 10 District/Center Commanders in Dollars Awarded to SDVOSB

1. Los Angeles $97.8M COL Kimberly Colloton2. Mobile $87.4M COL Jon Chytka 3. Huntsville $57.2M COL Robert Ruch 4. Fort Worth $51.5M LTC William Craig 5. Savannah $51.0M COL Tom Tickner 6. New Orleans $48.9M COL Rich Hansen 7. Omaha $41.3M COL Joel Cross 8. Sacramento $39.6M COL Mike Farrell 9. Louisville $38.8M COL Chris Beck 10. Seattle $35.3M COL John Buck

Top 10 District/Centers in Percentages of Dollars Awarded to SDVOSB

1. ERDC (Labs) 21.70% COL Jeffrey Eckstein2. Los Angeles 14.10% COL Kimberly Colloton 3. Norfolk 13.90% COL Paul Olsen4. Mobile 13.40% COL Jon Chytka5. Albuquerque 12.10% LTC Patrick Dagon6. Seattle 12.00% COL John Buck 7. Rock Island 11.60% COL Mark Deschenes8. Savannah 10.50% COL Tom Tickner 9. Fort Worth 10.20% LTC William Craig10. Sacramento 9.20% COL Mike Farrell

Top WOSB Award Recipients

• Top Division by $ - South Pacific Division $194M• Top Division by % - South Pacific Division 14%• Top District by $ - Los Angeles $108M• Top District by % - ERDC 47%

Top Small Disadvantaged Business Award Recipients

• Top Division by $ - Southwestern Division $607M• Top Division by % - Pacific Ocean Division 44%• Top District by $ - Huntsville Center $388M• Top District by % - Los Angeles 74%

Top HUBZone Award Recipients

• Top Division by $ - South Atlantic Division $242M• Top Division by % - Mississippi Valley Division 13%• Top District by $ - New Orleans $115M• Top District by % - Memphis District 33%

Other Award Recipients

COL Richard Gridley SDVOSB Achievement Award: BG R. Mark Toy, South Pacific Division Commander ($166M/12.22%)

Small Business Specialist Award: • Ms. Mary Spencer, Los Angeles & (Acting) San Francisco

District • Ms. Karen Brady, Memphis District

Division Small Business Specialist Award: • Ms. Melea Crouse, Southwestern Division

Small Business Champion Awards

• Mr. Randall L. Bowker, Head Alaska District Engineers Program & Project Mgmt. Div.

• Ms. Lakisha D. Vance, Contracting Officer, Little Rock District• Mr. Douglas A. Summer, Program Manager, New York District• Ms. Sheila Winston-Vincuilla, District Contracting Chief, New

England District• LTC Glenn O. Pratt, Portland Deputy District Commander

Submitted by:Ms. Grace K. Fontana, Associate Director, USACE OSBP, and Mr. Stan S. Lee, Assistant Director, USACE South Pacific Division OSBP

Small Business Conference for Federal, Engineering, Construction and Environmental Programs Facilitates Engagement and Provides

Acquisition Forecast to Small Business

Ms. Sherrie Plonski, Small Business Specialist, USACE Pittsburgh/Buffalo District; Ms. Jacque Gee, Small Business

Specialist, USACE Louisville District; Mr. Roy Rossignol, Small Business Specialist; and Ms. Debbie Czewski, Small Business

Specialist, USACE Huntington District, staff the booth.

LTG Thomas P. Bostick, Commander, USACE (fourth from left) with representatives of the top 10 USACE Districts and Centers in dollars awarded to Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned Small Businesses.

Page 15 Page 16


The US Government Accountability Office categorizes small business goaling exclusions into 3 main groups:

1. Those for which small businesses’ chances to compete are limited or nonexistent

2. Those using non-appropriated funds3. Those made by agencies, such as the Federal Aviation

Administration, which are not subject to the Federal Acquisition Regulation or are otherwise exempted by statute from following federal procurement regulations.

-- http://www.gao.gov/assets/240/231854.pdf GAO-01-551

Whenever we report on small business achievement data, the goaling exclusions should be applied. Below is a look at how each of these exclusions impact our FY14 small business achievement numbers. These metrics were calculated by removing one of the exclusions at a time while keeping the others active. ■

Submitted by:Mr. Burt Stanko, Support Contractor, Army OSBP

1. Contracts performed outside of the United States: Awards performed outside of the US are designated when the country in the place of performance is NOT the United States or its territories are included

This exclusion that helps us the most. In FY14, Army contracted $7.56 billion outside of the United States, but only $0.25 billion of those were to small businesses. If this exclusion were removed, Army’s FY14 achievement would drop by 3.15% to 28.63%.

2. Acquisitions by agencies on behalf of foreign governments or entities or international organizations: Actions that are funded by foreign entities

This exclusion had the second largest impact on Army’s FY14 small business achievement. If it were not applied, our SB achievement would be 1.99 percent lower.

3. Javits-Wagner-O’Day Program (JWOD, Sheltered Workshops): Ability One

The third largest impact comes from excluding contracts awarded through the ability one program. If these contracts were not excluded, our small business achievement would be 0.40 percent lower.

4. Product Service codes for Utilities S112 (Electric)

This exclusion had a small, but noticeable impact. Surprisingly, small businesses accounted for almost 19 percent of all dollars awarded with PSC S112 (Electric).

The Impact of Small Business Exclusions on Army’s FY14 Performance

5. UNICOR: Exclude the UNICOR DUNS

There are 63 DUNS numbers assigned to UNICOR or Federal Prison Industries. A relatively small portion of army contracts are awarded to this group, but without this exclusion our overall small business achievement would have dropped by 0.01 percent.

6. Tricare DODAAC - H94002, HT9402 or Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services - 00NAF

7. Contracts funded predominately with agency generated sources

8. American Institute in Taiwan: Awards with the American Institute in Taiwan designated as the contractor

The following exclusions had no Army dollars contracted to them in FY14. They currently have no impact on our small business achievement.

9. Acquisitions with a Reason Not Competed value of “RES” for Resale

The only exclusion that actually hurts us is the one for acquisitions with a “Reason Not Competed” value of “Resale”. In FY14, Army awarded $191,843 as resale contracts, and $160,972 of that went to small business (83.86 percent). However, this was such a small fraction of total spend that we would only see an impact on the ten-thousandths place of our overall small business achievement percentage.

If all the goaling exclusions were removed for FY14, Army’s base would grow by $15.37B and small business dollars would grow by $0.71B which would decrease small business achievement by 5.50%. The sums of the previous exclusions need to be looked at independently because some contracts may fall under numerous exclusions (For example: A contract for electricity with place of performance listed as outside of the United States).

If you have any questions about the methodology used in the article or if you are interested in analyzing the impact exclusions have on your command, please don’t hesitate to contact me.

ExclusionFY14 w/ All ExclusionsPerformance outside of the United StatesDifference

SB$ 19,237,785,314$ 19,492,286,380$ 254,501,067

Total$ 60,531,628,760 $ 68,087,875,597 $ 7,556,246,837

SB%31.78%28.63%-3.15%

ExclusionFY14 w/ All ExclusionsAcquisitions for foreign governmentsDifference

SB$ 19,237,785,314 $ 19,594,244,553 $ 356,459,240

Total$ 60,531,628,760 $ 65,764,486,353 $ 5,232,857,593

SB%31.78%29.79%-1.99%

ExclusionFY14 w/ All ExclusionsAbility OneDifference

SB$ 19,237,785,314 $ 19,242,963,429 $ 5,178,116

Total$ 60,531,628,760 $ 61,320,950,488 $ 789,321,728

SB%31.78%31.38%-0.40%

ExclusionFY14 w/ All ExclusionsElectricDifference

SB$ 19,237,785,314 $ 19,295,951,577 $ 58,166,263

Total$ 60,531,628,760 $ 60,839,086,699 $ 307,457,939

SB%31.78%31.72%-0.07%

ExclusionFY14 w/ All ExclusionsUNICORDifference

SB$ 19,237,785,314 $ 19,237,785,314 $ ---

Total$ 60,531,628,760 $ 60,551,518,112 $ 19,889,352

SB%31.78%31.77%-0.01%

ExclusionFY14 w/ All ExclusionsResaleDifference

SB$ 19,237,785,314 $ 19,237,946,186 $ 160,872

Total$ 60,531,628,760 $ 60,531,820,603 $ 191,843

SB%31.78%31.78%+0.0002%

ExclusionFY14 w/ All ExclusionsFY14 w/ No ExclusionsDifference

SB$ 19,237,785,314 $ 19,946,517,421 $ 708,732,108

Total$ 60,531,628,760 $ 75,903,536,305 $ 15,371,907,545

SB%31.78%26.28%-5.50%

ExclusionFY14 w/ All ExclusionsTricare & CMSAgency Generated SourcesAmerican Institute in TaiwanDifference

SB$ 19,237,785,314 $ 19,237,785,314 $ 19,237,785,314 $ 19,237,785,314 $ ---

Total$ 60,531,628,760 $ 60,531,628,760 $ 60,531,628,760 $ 60,531,628,760 $ ---

SB%31.78%31.78%31.78%31.78%0.00%

Page 15 Page 16


The US Government Accountability Office categorizes small business goaling exclusions into 3 main groups:

1. Those for which small businesses’ chances to compete are limited or nonexistent

2. Those using non-appropriated funds3. Those made by agencies, such as the Federal Aviation

Administration, which are not subject to the Federal Acquisition Regulation or are otherwise exempted by statute from following federal procurement regulations.

-- http://www.gao.gov/assets/240/231854.pdf GAO-01-551

Whenever we report on small business achievement data, the goaling exclusions should be applied. Below is a look at how each of these exclusions impact our FY14 small business achievement numbers. These metrics were calculated by removing one of the exclusions at a time while keeping the others active. ■

Submitted by:Mr. Burt Stanko, Support Contractor, Army OSBP

1. Contracts performed outside of the United States: Awards performed outside of the US are designated when the country in the place of performance is NOT the United States or its territories are included

This exclusion that helps us the most. In FY14, Army contracted $7.56 billion outside of the United States, but only $0.25 billion of those were to small businesses. If this exclusion were removed, Army’s FY14 achievement would drop by 3.15% to 28.63%.

2. Acquisitions by agencies on behalf of foreign governments or entities or international organizations: Actions that are funded by foreign entities

This exclusion had the second largest impact on Army’s FY14 small business achievement. If it were not applied, our SB achievement would be 1.99 percent lower.

3. Javits-Wagner-O’Day Program (JWOD, Sheltered Workshops): Ability One

The third largest impact comes from excluding contracts awarded through the ability one program. If these contracts were not excluded, our small business achievement would be 0.40 percent lower.

4. Product Service codes for Utilities S112 (Electric)

This exclusion had a small, but noticeable impact. Surprisingly, small businesses accounted for almost 19 percent of all dollars awarded with PSC S112 (Electric).

The Impact of Small Business Exclusions on Army’s FY14 Performance

5. UNICOR: Exclude the UNICOR DUNS

There are 63 DUNS numbers assigned to UNICOR or Federal Prison Industries. A relatively small portion of army contracts are awarded to this group, but without this exclusion our overall small business achievement would have dropped by 0.01 percent.

6. Tricare DODAAC - H94002, HT9402 or Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services - 00NAF

7. Contracts funded predominately with agency generated sources

8. American Institute in Taiwan: Awards with the American Institute in Taiwan designated as the contractor

The following exclusions had no Army dollars contracted to them in FY14. They currently have no impact on our small business achievement.

9. Acquisitions with a Reason Not Competed value of “RES” for Resale

The only exclusion that actually hurts us is the one for acquisitions with a “Reason Not Competed” value of “Resale”. In FY14, Army awarded $191,843 as resale contracts, and $160,972 of that went to small business (83.86 percent). However, this was such a small fraction of total spend that we would only see an impact on the ten-thousandths place of our overall small business achievement percentage.

If all the goaling exclusions were removed for FY14, Army’s base would grow by $15.37B and small business dollars would grow by $0.71B which would decrease small business achievement by 5.50%. The sums of the previous exclusions need to be looked at independently because some contracts may fall under numerous exclusions (For example: A contract for electricity with place of performance listed as outside of the United States).

If you have any questions about the methodology used in the article or if you are interested in analyzing the impact exclusions have on your command, please don’t hesitate to contact me.

ExclusionFY14 w/ All ExclusionsPerformance outside of the United StatesDifference

SB$ 19,237,785,314$ 19,492,286,380$ 254,501,067

Total$ 60,531,628,760 $ 68,087,875,597 $ 7,556,246,837

SB%31.78%28.63%-3.15%

ExclusionFY14 w/ All ExclusionsAcquisitions for foreign governmentsDifference

SB$ 19,237,785,314 $ 19,594,244,553 $ 356,459,240

Total$ 60,531,628,760 $ 65,764,486,353 $ 5,232,857,593

SB%31.78%29.79%-1.99%

ExclusionFY14 w/ All ExclusionsAbility OneDifference

SB$ 19,237,785,314 $ 19,242,963,429 $ 5,178,116

Total$ 60,531,628,760 $ 61,320,950,488 $ 789,321,728

SB%31.78%31.38%-0.40%

ExclusionFY14 w/ All ExclusionsElectricDifference

SB$ 19,237,785,314 $ 19,295,951,577 $ 58,166,263

Total$ 60,531,628,760 $ 60,839,086,699 $ 307,457,939

SB%31.78%31.72%-0.07%

ExclusionFY14 w/ All ExclusionsUNICORDifference

SB$ 19,237,785,314 $ 19,237,785,314 $ ---

Total$ 60,531,628,760 $ 60,551,518,112 $ 19,889,352

SB%31.78%31.77%-0.01%

ExclusionFY14 w/ All ExclusionsResaleDifference

SB$ 19,237,785,314 $ 19,237,946,186 $ 160,872

Total$ 60,531,628,760 $ 60,531,820,603 $ 191,843

SB%31.78%31.78%+0.0002%

ExclusionFY14 w/ All ExclusionsFY14 w/ No ExclusionsDifference

SB$ 19,237,785,314 $ 19,946,517,421 $ 708,732,108

Total$ 60,531,628,760 $ 75,903,536,305 $ 15,371,907,545

SB%31.78%26.28%-5.50%

ExclusionFY14 w/ All ExclusionsTricare & CMSAgency Generated SourcesAmerican Institute in TaiwanDifference

SB$ 19,237,785,314 $ 19,237,785,314 $ 19,237,785,314 $ 19,237,785,314 $ ---

Total$ 60,531,628,760 $ 60,531,628,760 $ 60,531,628,760 $ 60,531,628,760 $ ---

SB%31.78%31.78%31.78%31.78%0.00%

Tribute to Ms. Tracey L. PinsonTribute to Ms. Tracey L. Pinson

We were very fortunate to have Ms. Pinson as the Army’s Director of Small Business Programs. Ms. Pinson demonstrated a tireless passion for the advancement of small businesses. Her leadership, initiatives, and dedication helped countless small businesses gain success. It has been both a pleasure and privilege to have worked with Ms. Pinson and we will certainly miss her within the small business community.

- Army Aviation and Missile Command, OSBP

We at the Army Corps of Engineers Pacific Ocean Division wish to thank Ms. Pinson for all that she did for the small business communities in Alaska and Hawaii and send our fondest “aloha” to her and her family. Ms. Pinson, we will truly miss your beautiful smile, laugh and great personality!

“Mahalo Niu Loa” (Thank you very much).

- The Army Corps of EngineersPacific Ocean Division “Ohana” (Family)

Dear Ms. Pinson,

Thank you for the interview in April 2010 that gave me an opportunity to work in small business programs. This opportunity started me on a path that will allow me to reach my full potential – it doesn’t stop here. We became a great team in the years that followed. I will definitely miss the relationship we had.

Forever,

- Ms. Veronica AtkinsonExecutive Assistant, Army OSBP

Army Medical Command (MEDCOM) was shocked and saddened upon hearing about the recent passing of our colleague and friend, Ms. Tracey Pinson. MEDCOM has always respected Tracey as a woman of perseverance and conviction. Throughout her distinguished career and life, Tracey championed the cause for small business concerns to do business with the federal government, the Army and our command. On several occasions, we were honored to have Tracey come and speak at one of the many MEDCOM veterans small business conferences here at Ft. Sam Houston in San Antonio, TX. Her passion for improving opportunities for small and growing American businesses was infectious. She never turned down an opportunity to come and share her passion for expanding economic opportunities and giving all a chance to compete in federal contracting. Army medicine and our business partners are in a better place because of this passion and commitment.

Many of us in both the Army contracting and the small business communities were blessed to have gotten to know Tracey and to work with her on a personal and professional level. She was a significant and supportive leader and mentor whose life’s work will carry forth for years to come. MEDCOM, its workforce, and its business community are proud to have known and worked with Tracey. We strive to carry forth her passion and dedication to the small business cause and to never let her legacy and accomplishments be forgotten.

- Ms. Pat BarberAssociate Director, MEDCOM OSBP

Ms. Tracey Pinson was the consummate professional and a dear friend to all. Her mission focus combined with her engaging personality galvanized all around her. She ensured that the Army Corps of Engineers and the entire Army accomplished higher and higher small business goals. I recall speaking with her on one occasion and explaining how the mission was possibly unachievable. She responded, “Now, General Bostick, I know you and your team can do this.” I thought, how do you say no to that, and she was always right. The Army Corps of Engineers always delivered on its small business goals, and Tracey Pinson inspired us all. Tracey

Remembering Ms. Tracey L. Pinson, Former Director, Army Office of Small Business Programs

“Sadly You Have Passed but Your Legacy Lives On”

Page 17 Page 18


worked so very well with people and set a high standard in her profession. She will be deeply missed. However, her legacy is reflected in the people she trained, mentored and led. I’m honored to have served with her, and to have been one of those she mentored. We will carry her spirit and love of life in our hearts and minds for many years to come. Thank you.

- LTG Thomas Bostick53rd Army Chief of Engineers and Commanding General

Army Corps of Engineers

Ms. Tracey Pinson had a tremendous impact on the small business community. She was instrumental in assisting me on getting more requirements into the small business program. Many of these requirements had only been performed by small businesses at the subcontract level. Having her support and appreciation of my small business advocacy contributions was invaluable. We will all miss her small business advocacy and her friendship. Her passion for the small business community was evident in all she did. Ms. Pinson, you are surely missed! Peace and blessings to your family!

- Ms. Harriett BurtonAssociate Director

OSBP, Army Intelligence and Security Command

In December of 2005, the USACE Philadelphia District hosted a Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCU) symposium to showcase the signing of a partnership agreement among four HBCUs: Morgan State, Delaware State, Cheyney and Lincoln Universities. For several months, we had worked closely with Mr. Ron Blakely, who was the Department of the Army’s HBCU/MI program director at that time, to get the schools to consider working together. When Ms. Pinson arrived at the event, I was floored. Although Ms. Pinson had been invited to speak, no confirmation had been received. She had been on travel in Washington State the day before and expectations of her attending were slim. Participating in our event was no easy task because it meant that she had to take a red-eye home the night before and a morning train from DC. At the podium, she told the audience that she was here because of me, that this was my event and that she had no intention of missing it. I was at a loss for words and anyone that knows me can grasp how significant this was. I was already an ardent fan of Ms. Pinson but after this feat, I became her Number One. She had earned a permanent place in my heart and I planned never to let her down.

- Ms. Cheryl ChandlerDeputy for Small Business

Philadelphia District, Army Corps of Engineers

When I started as a USACE Deputy for Small Business many years ago, I remember hearing Ms. Pinson speak at a Department of Defense Small Business Conference. Every year since then, I would look forward to hearing her presentation. Ms. Pinson would re-energize me through her words and actions. I admired her and her commitment to the Army Small Business Program. As time passed, I got to know Tracey personally and would look forward to seeing her at different small business events. We would chat at these events and sometimes a group of us would get together after the conference day had ended. I had an opportunity to shadow her at the Pentagon—an opportunity for which I was grateful. Tracey was also gracious enough to come speak at our local Society of American Military Engineers Post meeting. My last opportunity to see her was at the last Army Small Business event that she held in May 2014. As always, I was excited to see her and listen to what she had to say. I was shocked, as all of us were, to hear that she was going to retire. I spoke to her and told her that she couldn’t go. Tracey responded that she wanted to pave the way for new folks to have an opportunity to make a difference. I realized that this was just another example of Tracey’s nurturing, developing, and providing opportunities for others. I gave her a hug, told her that I would miss her and thanked her for all that she had done for the program as well as for me personally. There will never be another TRACEY! I am thankful for the time I got to spend with her and learn from her.

- Ms. Eva Marie D’AntuonoSmall Business Specialist

New England District, Army Corps of Engineers

Ms. Pinson was a strong advocate for small businesses, a leader that motivated and built strong teams, and facilitated a successful small business program in the Department of Army. She was a mentor that recognized talent, cultivated it, encouraged personal growth and self-development. She was a trustworthy confidant, an advisor, great listener, and my friend. That’s the Tracey Pinson I know, and I will remember her always.

- Mr. Randy EdneyAssociate Director, OSBP

Army Program Executive Office for Simulation, Training,and Instrumentation

As the Ft. Gordon Cell Chief, and assigned duties at the OSBP office, I had the pleasure and honor of working under Ms. Pinson’s leadership for years. As a woman of faith, grace, and style, she exhibited the kind of leadership I wanted

We continue to mourn the December passing of Ms. Tracey L. Pinson. Nobody can describe her impact on the Army Small Business Program better than those she worked with during her almost 20-year tenure as Director, Army OSBP. Below we have compiled reflections from her staff and colleagues.


We were very fortunate to have Ms. Pinson as the Army’s Director of Small Business Programs. Ms. Pinson demonstrated a tireless passion for the advancement of small businesses. Her leadership, initiatives, and dedication helped countless small businesses gain success. It has been both a pleasure and privilege to have worked with Ms. Pinson and we will certainly miss her within the small business community.

- Army Aviation and Missile Command, OSBP

We at the Army Corps of Engineers Pacific Ocean Division wish to thank Ms. Pinson for all that she did for the small business communities in Alaska and Hawaii and send our fondest “aloha” to her and her family. Ms. Pinson, we will truly miss your beautiful smile, laugh and great personality!

“Mahalo Niu Loa” (Thank you very much).

- The Army Corps of EngineersPacific Ocean Division “Ohana” (Family)

Dear Ms. Pinson,

Thank you for the interview in April 2010 that gave me an opportunity to work in small business programs. This opportunity started me on a path that will allow me to reach my full potential – it doesn’t stop here. We became a great team in the years that followed. I will definitely miss the relationship we had.

Forever,

- Ms. Veronica AtkinsonExecutive Assistant, Army OSBP

Army Medical Command (MEDCOM) was shocked and saddened upon hearing about the recent passing of our colleague and friend, Ms. Tracey Pinson. MEDCOM has always respected Tracey as a woman of perseverance and conviction. Throughout her distinguished career and life, Tracey championed the cause for small business concerns to do business with the federal government, the Army and our command. On several occasions, we were honored to have Tracey come and speak at one of the many MEDCOM veterans small business conferences here at Ft. Sam Houston in San Antonio, TX. Her passion for improving opportunities for small and growing American businesses was infectious. She never turned down an opportunity to come and share her passion for expanding economic opportunities and giving all a chance to compete in federal contracting. Army medicine and our business partners are in a better place because of this passion and commitment.

Many of us in both the Army contracting and the small business communities were blessed to have gotten to know Tracey and to work with her on a personal and professional level. She was a significant and supportive leader and mentor whose life’s work will carry forth for years to come. MEDCOM, its workforce, and its business community are proud to have known and worked with Tracey. We strive to carry forth her passion and dedication to the small business cause and to never let her legacy and accomplishments be forgotten.

- Ms. Pat BarberAssociate Director, MEDCOM OSBP

Ms. Tracey Pinson was the consummate professional and a dear friend to all. Her mission focus combined with her engaging personality galvanized all around her. She ensured that the Army Corps of Engineers and the entire Army accomplished higher and higher small business goals. I recall speaking with her on one occasion and explaining how the mission was possibly unachievable. She responded, “Now, General Bostick, I know you and your team can do this.” I thought, how do you say no to that, and she was always right. The Army Corps of Engineers always delivered on its small business goals, and Tracey Pinson inspired us all. Tracey

Remembering Ms. Tracey L. Pinson, Former Director, Army Office of Small Business Programs

“Sadly You Have Passed but Your Legacy Lives On”

Page 17 Page 18


worked so very well with people and set a high standard in her profession. She will be deeply missed. However, her legacy is reflected in the people she trained, mentored and led. I’m honored to have served with her, and to have been one of those she mentored. We will carry her spirit and love of life in our hearts and minds for many years to come. Thank you.

- LTG Thomas Bostick53rd Army Chief of Engineers and Commanding General

Army Corps of Engineers

Ms. Tracey Pinson had a tremendous impact on the small business community. She was instrumental in assisting me on getting more requirements into the small business program. Many of these requirements had only been performed by small businesses at the subcontract level. Having her support and appreciation of my small business advocacy contributions was invaluable. We will all miss her small business advocacy and her friendship. Her passion for the small business community was evident in all she did. Ms. Pinson, you are surely missed! Peace and blessings to your family!

- Ms. Harriett BurtonAssociate Director

OSBP, Army Intelligence and Security Command

In December of 2005, the USACE Philadelphia District hosted a Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCU) symposium to showcase the signing of a partnership agreement among four HBCUs: Morgan State, Delaware State, Cheyney and Lincoln Universities. For several months, we had worked closely with Mr. Ron Blakely, who was the Department of the Army’s HBCU/MI program director at that time, to get the schools to consider working together. When Ms. Pinson arrived at the event, I was floored. Although Ms. Pinson had been invited to speak, no confirmation had been received. She had been on travel in Washington State the day before and expectations of her attending were slim. Participating in our event was no easy task because it meant that she had to take a red-eye home the night before and a morning train from DC. At the podium, she told the audience that she was here because of me, that this was my event and that she had no intention of missing it. I was at a loss for words and anyone that knows me can grasp how significant this was. I was already an ardent fan of Ms. Pinson but after this feat, I became her Number One. She had earned a permanent place in my heart and I planned never to let her down.

- Ms. Cheryl ChandlerDeputy for Small Business

Philadelphia District, Army Corps of Engineers

When I started as a USACE Deputy for Small Business many years ago, I remember hearing Ms. Pinson speak at a Department of Defense Small Business Conference. Every year since then, I would look forward to hearing her presentation. Ms. Pinson would re-energize me through her words and actions. I admired her and her commitment to the Army Small Business Program. As time passed, I got to know Tracey personally and would look forward to seeing her at different small business events. We would chat at these events and sometimes a group of us would get together after the conference day had ended. I had an opportunity to shadow her at the Pentagon—an opportunity for which I was grateful. Tracey was also gracious enough to come speak at our local Society of American Military Engineers Post meeting. My last opportunity to see her was at the last Army Small Business event that she held in May 2014. As always, I was excited to see her and listen to what she had to say. I was shocked, as all of us were, to hear that she was going to retire. I spoke to her and told her that she couldn’t go. Tracey responded that she wanted to pave the way for new folks to have an opportunity to make a difference. I realized that this was just another example of Tracey’s nurturing, developing, and providing opportunities for others. I gave her a hug, told her that I would miss her and thanked her for all that she had done for the program as well as for me personally. There will never be another TRACEY! I am thankful for the time I got to spend with her and learn from her.

- Ms. Eva Marie D’AntuonoSmall Business Specialist

New England District, Army Corps of Engineers

Ms. Pinson was a strong advocate for small businesses, a leader that motivated and built strong teams, and facilitated a successful small business program in the Department of Army. She was a mentor that recognized talent, cultivated it, encouraged personal growth and self-development. She was a trustworthy confidant, an advisor, great listener, and my friend. That’s the Tracey Pinson I know, and I will remember her always.

- Mr. Randy EdneyAssociate Director, OSBP

Army Program Executive Office for Simulation, Training,and Instrumentation

As the Ft. Gordon Cell Chief, and assigned duties at the OSBP office, I had the pleasure and honor of working under Ms. Pinson’s leadership for years. As a woman of faith, grace, and style, she exhibited the kind of leadership I wanted

We continue to mourn the December passing of Ms. Tracey L. Pinson. Nobody can describe her impact on the Army Small Business Program better than those she worked with during her almost 20-year tenure as Director, Army OSBP. Below we have compiled reflections from her staff and colleagues.


to emulate. The Army Small Business Program flourished under her guidance to the highest heights. When I had the opportunity to be in her presence, I was like a sponge soaking up knowledge, and I always parted with more wisdom and insight than when I arrived. Ms. Pinson lead by example, and all who had the opportunity to know her were blessed. She is missed, but her contributions and love for the Army Small Business Program will never be forgotten.

- Ms. Edwonia S. GatesCell Chief, Southern Region Contracting Office

Army Medical Command, Health Care Acquisition Activity

I first met Ms. Pinson in early 2000, at an industry day in Huntsville, AL where she was the speaker. She had such young features that, by mistake, I tried to recruit her as a student for our university. Ms. Pinson chuckled and, after expressing appreciation for the comment, introduced herself to me. Then she said, “So you are Dr. ILA.” We all miss our great friend Ms. Pinson. My heart broke when I heard the devastating news. I wish Ms. Pinson’s family peace and health.

- Dr. Daryush ILAAssociate Vice Chancellor for Research

Fayetteville State University – Research Office

I had the pleasure of working with Tracey over the last few years she served in government. For me, what stands out the most is her enthusiasm, dedication and commitment to both the small business community, the Army, and her country. I could always count on Tracey to be forward leaning and passionate about making a difference and getting things done. Her can-do positive attitude was critical to the Army’s success in increasing small business participation for the Department of Defense (DoD). As the Army went, so went DoD in attaining all of our small business goals. Tracey’s leadership made all the difference, and at any time she would be outspoken, candid, and forceful in advocating for small businesses within the Army and DoD. Her attitude was infectious and she motivated and inspired me and all the people she came in contact with to reach a little further and accomplish more for their country. Tracey led and inspired and we will never forget the example that she set for all of us in government service.

- HON Frank KendallUnder Secretary of Defense

Acquisition, Technology and Logistics

Dear Ms. Pinson:

As we go through the day with various assignments and taskers to perform, the guidance you provided when you were here comes to our thoughts. When we come across those tough decisions in which we would have immediately sought you out, our minds take us back to how you would have advised us. When seeking your advice we always knew to have thoroughly researched the subject, anticipate questions, and to be an active participant in working towards the solution.

You set the bar high and helped us steer the course. On days we didn’t quite make it and you had to give an extra push, we lovingly termed those days as being “Pinsonated.” What did it mean to be “Pinsonated?” Being “Pinsonated” meant that you had a question for every answer and that we did not pass the test until you knew we were ready for “prime time.” In other words, we were in the hot seat and you were passing on a legacy. We thank you for that.

You Were the Best of the Best... You Will Forever Remain in our Hearts, Minds and Actions.

We Miss You Very Much as our Leader and our Friend!

- Ms. Cynthia LeeProgram Manager, Army 8(a) / Small Disadvantaged Business

and HBCU/MI Programs

I was honored to have been introduced to Ms. Tracey Pinson during one of my active-duty military assignments in Philadelphia, circa 1995. Shortly after my active-duty military retirement in 2001, I was fortunate to receive an appointment as a Department of Army civilian to work with her as one of the small business Associate Directors from 2002-2014. Throughout the many years of her career, Ms. Pinson certainly epitomized the core attributes indicative of a true public servant, advocate, and leader.

Her insistence and passion to better acquaint business firms and higher education (i.e., Historically Black Colleges and Universities / Minority Institutions) with forging strategic partnerships with the Army resulted in countless opportunities for government, industry, and academia. Ms. Pinson’s clever way of being persistent, persuasive, and patient, coupled with being receptive to feedback, has contributed immeasurably to the positive outcomes by those working for and with her. According to Roget’s II, The New Thesaurus, Third Edition, the following are definitions and synonyms for the word leader: “A leading contestant: front runner, number one.” The cross-references include: “precede, boss, chief, dignitary, feature, and guide.” In my opinion, many of these terms accurately describe Ms. Tracey Pinson. I am certainly proud to have worked for her, and to also have had an opportunity to personally thank her for her mentorship during an Army Small Business training event last year.

- Mr. Jerome K. MaultsbyAssociate Director, OSBP

Army Medical Research and Materiel Command and Fort Detrick

Tracey stood behind me and gave her support; she walked in front of me when I needed her leadership and guidance; she walked by my side when she mentored me, shared her knowledge and provided valuable sage advice.

I am forever grateful that I called her my supervisor, mentor; Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority Sister and friend. “skee-wee Tracey”

- Ms. Pamela MonroeProgram Manager, Mentor-Protégé & Subcontracting

Army OSBP

Ms. Tracey Pinson was probably the most photographed Senior Executive because she was so involved, active, sought out, and accessible. However, pictures never did her justice. She was beautiful inside and out. I loved how accessible she was to businesses and junior personnel. I will also forever respect and admire her ability to recognize and develop talent and leadership. She was a leader, mother, wife, friend and mentor. She was passionate about many things, including the success of small business. She was a trailblazer who nurtured the small business program in its infancy and inspired the Army’s development into the best program in Department of Defense (DoD) and possibly all of the federal government. She was instrumental in the creation and success of the DoD Mentor-Protégé program. It was her vision of how the Program should work that led to its inception, creation, and ultimately, its success. As I walk through the halls of Army OSBP and see all the trophies and plaques for small business achievement, I can still feel her presence there. Her legacy will live on through the success of businesses she influenced and the leaders that she developed.

I do have a funny story to share. When I attended a holiday open house hosted at her office in 2013, I brought some homemade peanut butter fudge to share. After it was over, I took the remainder of it with me. The next time I saw her, she asked me what happened to the fudge. She enjoyed it so much, she wanted to take it home for her holiday house guests; so, I made her a special (four pound) batch of peanut butter fudge. Now, every time I make my peanut butter fudge, I think of Ms. Pinson and how much she enjoyed it.

- Ms. Sharon R. MorrowProgram Manager, Women-Owned Small Business, Workforce

Development, and Major Weapons ProgramsArmy OSBP

When I reflect on who Ms. Pinson was, I think of her as a leader of integrity and quiet strength. A leader does not have to shout, issue threats or be transactional to be effective. A good leader, models, listens, encourages, and then applies the right pressure at the right time to promote positive outcomes.

My first encounter with Ms. Pinson was in 2005 when she visited Ft. Detrick and presented coins to contracting officers and contract specialists who made significant contributions in support of the small business programs. Her interaction and positive demeanor caused some of the staff to wonder in amazement how a Senior Executive could be so personable. Another testament to Ms. Pinson’s dedication and leadership was on display in January 2007 when she agreed to be a guest speaker at the YMCA Black Achievers Gala in Hagerstown, MD, far outside the lime light of metropolitan

DC. Her message to the children was about working in the federal government and how to leave a legacy of integrity and commitment in any field of occupation.

I will always remember Ms. Pinson as a Senior Executive who worked alongside her staff at small business conferences and outreach events in every aspect of duties. She was a leader who fought fervently for small business entrepreneurs so that they can benefit from government contracting opportunities. She was a mentor who encouraged her protégés to strive for higher echelons of government and responsibility, to provide constructive solutions and not vain criticisms, and finally, to strive to be an individual of integrity and self worth.

It was indeed a great pleasure and privilege to have known and worked for Ms. Tracey Pinson!

- Ms. Nicola OhaegbuSmall Business Specialist, OSBP


I sit back fondly thinking of all the conversations I had with Ms. Tracey Pinson over the years. She was smart, forward thinking, inspiring, and accessible. We spent many hours together. She openly shared her wisdom, always guiding me on my career. She’d tell me what to say, what not to say, who I should meet with, and what books to read. The last book she told me to read was Lean In (Women, Work, and the Will to Lead) by Sheryl Sandberg. She never had to tell me anything twice – I listened to her. In private she’d call me her minion; in public she told others that I was her protégé. She expected excellence from me at all times, which led to my recent appointment to the Senior Executive Service.

My kids will always love her. My husband was her side-kick at conferences and misses her dearly. I’m committed to sharing her story and carrying on her legacy. She wanted to make a difference for thousands of small business owners, and she did. She was such a powerful and gifted Senior Executive, yet she was never too busy to stop and show genuine interest in a receptionist, a gate guard, a waiter, a young soldier, and other people on the front line. I’m forever grateful that our paths crossed.

- Ms. Jackie Robinson-Burnette, SESAssociate Administrator of Business Development

Small Business Administration

Page 19 Page 20



to emulate. The Army Small Business Program flourished under her guidance to the highest heights. When I had the opportunity to be in her presence, I was like a sponge soaking up knowledge, and I always parted with more wisdom and insight than when I arrived. Ms. Pinson lead by example, and all who had the opportunity to know her were blessed. She is missed, but her contributions and love for the Army Small Business Program will never be forgotten.

- Ms. Edwonia S. GatesCell Chief, Southern Region Contracting Office

Army Medical Command, Health Care Acquisition Activity

I first met Ms. Pinson in early 2000, at an industry day in Huntsville, AL where she was the speaker. She had such young features that, by mistake, I tried to recruit her as a student for our university. Ms. Pinson chuckled and, after expressing appreciation for the comment, introduced herself to me. Then she said, “So you are Dr. ILA.” We all miss our great friend Ms. Pinson. My heart broke when I heard the devastating news. I wish Ms. Pinson’s family peace and health.

- Dr. Daryush ILAAssociate Vice Chancellor for Research

Fayetteville State University – Research Office

I had the pleasure of working with Tracey over the last few years she served in government. For me, what stands out the most is her enthusiasm, dedication and commitment to both the small business community, the Army, and her country. I could always count on Tracey to be forward leaning and passionate about making a difference and getting things done. Her can-do positive attitude was critical to the Army’s success in increasing small business participation for the Department of Defense (DoD). As the Army went, so went DoD in attaining all of our small business goals. Tracey’s leadership made all the difference, and at any time she would be outspoken, candid, and forceful in advocating for small businesses within the Army and DoD. Her attitude was infectious and she motivated and inspired me and all the people she came in contact with to reach a little further and accomplish more for their country. Tracey led and inspired and we will never forget the example that she set for all of us in government service.

- HON Frank KendallUnder Secretary of Defense

Acquisition, Technology and Logistics

Dear Ms. Pinson:

As we go through the day with various assignments and taskers to perform, the guidance you provided when you were here comes to our thoughts. When we come across those tough decisions in which we would have immediately sought you out, our minds take us back to how you would have advised us. When seeking your advice we always knew to have thoroughly researched the subject, anticipate questions, and to be an active participant in working towards the solution.

You set the bar high and helped us steer the course. On days we didn’t quite make it and you had to give an extra push, we lovingly termed those days as being “Pinsonated.” What did it mean to be “Pinsonated?” Being “Pinsonated” meant that you had a question for every answer and that we did not pass the test until you knew we were ready for “prime time.” In other words, we were in the hot seat and you were passing on a legacy. We thank you for that.

You Were the Best of the Best... You Will Forever Remain in our Hearts, Minds and Actions.

We Miss You Very Much as our Leader and our Friend!

- Ms. Cynthia LeeProgram Manager, Army 8(a) / Small Disadvantaged Business

and HBCU/MI Programs

I was honored to have been introduced to Ms. Tracey Pinson during one of my active-duty military assignments in Philadelphia, circa 1995. Shortly after my active-duty military retirement in 2001, I was fortunate to receive an appointment as a Department of Army civilian to work with her as one of the small business Associate Directors from 2002-2014. Throughout the many years of her career, Ms. Pinson certainly epitomized the core attributes indicative of a true public servant, advocate, and leader.

Her insistence and passion to better acquaint business firms and higher education (i.e., Historically Black Colleges and Universities / Minority Institutions) with forging strategic partnerships with the Army resulted in countless opportunities for government, industry, and academia. Ms. Pinson’s clever way of being persistent, persuasive, and patient, coupled with being receptive to feedback, has contributed immeasurably to the positive outcomes by those working for and with her. According to Roget’s II, The New Thesaurus, Third Edition, the following are definitions and synonyms for the word leader: “A leading contestant: front runner, number one.” The cross-references include: “precede, boss, chief, dignitary, feature, and guide.” In my opinion, many of these terms accurately describe Ms. Tracey Pinson. I am certainly proud to have worked for her, and to also have had an opportunity to personally thank her for her mentorship during an Army Small Business training event last year.

- Mr. Jerome K. MaultsbyAssociate Director, OSBP


Tracey stood behind me and gave her support; she walked in front of me when I needed her leadership and guidance; she walked by my side when she mentored me, shared her knowledge and provided valuable sage advice.

I am forever grateful that I called her my supervisor, mentor; Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority Sister and friend. “skee-wee Tracey”

- Ms. Pamela MonroeProgram Manager, Mentor-Protégé & Subcontracting

Army OSBP

Ms. Tracey Pinson was probably the most photographed Senior Executive because she was so involved, active, sought out, and accessible. However, pictures never did her justice. She was beautiful inside and out. I loved how accessible she was to businesses and junior personnel. I will also forever respect and admire her ability to recognize and develop talent and leadership. She was a leader, mother, wife, friend and mentor. She was passionate about many things, including the success of small business. She was a trailblazer who nurtured the small business program in its infancy and inspired the Army’s development into the best program in Department of Defense (DoD) and possibly all of the federal government. She was instrumental in the creation and success of the DoD Mentor-Protégé program. It was her vision of how the Program should work that led to its inception, creation, and ultimately, its success. As I walk through the halls of Army OSBP and see all the trophies and plaques for small business achievement, I can still feel her presence there. Her legacy will live on through the success of businesses she influenced and the leaders that she developed.

I do have a funny story to share. When I attended a holiday open house hosted at her office in 2013, I brought some homemade peanut butter fudge to share. After it was over, I took the remainder of it with me. The next time I saw her, she asked me what happened to the fudge. She enjoyed it so much, she wanted to take it home for her holiday house guests; so, I made her a special (four pound) batch of peanut butter fudge. Now, every time I make my peanut butter fudge, I think of Ms. Pinson and how much she enjoyed it.

- Ms. Sharon R. MorrowProgram Manager, Women-Owned Small Business, Workforce

Development, and Major Weapons ProgramsArmy OSBP

When I reflect on who Ms. Pinson was, I think of her as a leader of integrity and quiet strength. A leader does not have to shout, issue threats or be transactional to be effective. A good leader, models, listens, encourages, and then applies the right pressure at the right time to promote positive outcomes.

My first encounter with Ms. Pinson was in 2005 when she visited Ft. Detrick and presented coins to contracting officers and contract specialists who made significant contributions in support of the small business programs. Her interaction and positive demeanor caused some of the staff to wonder in amazement how a Senior Executive could be so personable. Another testament to Ms. Pinson’s dedication and leadership was on display in January 2007 when she agreed to be a guest speaker at the YMCA Black Achievers Gala in Hagerstown, MD, far outside the lime light of metropolitan

DC. Her message to the children was about working in the federal government and how to leave a legacy of integrity and commitment in any field of occupation.

I will always remember Ms. Pinson as a Senior Executive who worked alongside her staff at small business conferences and outreach events in every aspect of duties. She was a leader who fought fervently for small business entrepreneurs so that they can benefit from government contracting opportunities. She was a mentor who encouraged her protégés to strive for higher echelons of government and responsibility, to provide constructive solutions and not vain criticisms, and finally, to strive to be an individual of integrity and self worth.

It was indeed a great pleasure and privilege to have known and worked for Ms. Tracey Pinson!

- Ms. Nicola OhaegbuSmall Business Specialist, OSBP


I sit back fondly thinking of all the conversations I had with Ms. Tracey Pinson over the years. She was smart, forward thinking, inspiring, and accessible. We spent many hours together. She openly shared her wisdom, always guiding me on my career. She’d tell me what to say, what not to say, who I should meet with, and what books to read. The last book she told me to read was Lean In (Women, Work, and the Will to Lead) by Sheryl Sandberg. She never had to tell me anything twice – I listened to her. In private she’d call me her minion; in public she told others that I was her protégé. She expected excellence from me at all times, which led to my recent appointment to the Senior Executive Service.

My kids will always love her. My husband was her side-kick at conferences and misses her dearly. I’m committed to sharing her story and carrying on her legacy. She wanted to make a difference for thousands of small business owners, and she did. She was such a powerful and gifted Senior Executive, yet she was never too busy to stop and show genuine interest in a receptionist, a gate guard, a waiter, a young soldier, and other people on the front line. I’m forever grateful that our paths crossed.

- Ms. Jackie Robinson-Burnette, SESAssociate Administrator of Business Development

Small Business Administration

Page 19 Page 20


Tribute to Ms. Tracey L. Pinson

Ms. Pinson was a true mentor and cared about people. She always supported my efforts and career advancement within the Army’s Small Business Program. I have fond memories of her and will sincerely miss her.

- Ms. Christine RyanAssociate Director, OSBP

Army Space & Missile Defense CommandArmy Forces Strategic Command

She’s a woman who moved mountains for small businesses.

- Mr. Cy C. SimonsProcurement Analyst, OSBP, USACE, Mobile District

It is my pleasure to share reflections of the invaluable experiences I have had while working with Ms. Pinson. She supported the small business community and Headquarters Army Materiel Command Base Realignment and Closure move from Ft. Belvoir, VA to Huntsville, AL. Ms. Pinson’s many professional accomplishments were impressive; however, I also called her my friend. I enjoyed being in her presence, sharing a meal, and lengthy conversations. Ms. Pinson was quite witty and told great jokes; I will miss the bond of commonalities we shared from our families, sororities, and our faith. I will continue to pray for her family. Ms. Pinson is sorely missed.

Isaiah 61:3 “To appoint them that mourn in Zion, He will give them beauty for ashes; the oil of joy for mourning; the garment of praise for the spirit of heaviness; that they may be called trees of righteousness, the planting of the LORD, that He may be glorified.”

- Ms. Nancy SmallAssociate Director, OSBPArmy Materiel Command

Many have commented on how Ms. Pinson helped minorities. She helped everyone. She made me want to be a better employee and human being. We all were so fortunate to have witnessed her charisma. Go Army.

- Ms. Linda L. SpadaroDeputy for Small Business, USACE, Mobile District

When Ms. Pinson arrived in the Small and Disadvantaged Business Utilization office as the Director in 1994, I saw a true leader. Her demeanor and enthusiastic attitude I will never forget. This was an amazing person, who gave her all in aiding others in and around small businesses. I am really proud to have worked on Ms. Pinson’s team, because when this beautiful lady speaks, you better listen.

Ms. Pinson has a higher job now which was approved by her God himself.

- Edith St. CatherineStaff Action Control Officer

Army OSBP

The precious memories of you will remain in our hearts forever. You were an inspiration to us all and your laughter and beautiful smile are truly missed. I am honored at having the pleasure to know and work for such a dedicated, gifted and committed professional woman. Someone said, “Perhaps they are not stars, but openings in Heaven” and really believe there is an extra star in the skies shining brightly over us all now. We miss you Ms. Pinson!

- Ms. Marina SullivanSupport Contractor

Army OSBP

A joyful memory: It was the final morning of the Army OSBP Professional Training on May 22, 2014 in Alexandria, VA. Most of us had spent the last 48 hours together in a small classroom setting learning and sharing small business program topics. As the attendees were gathering for the morning session, the Pharrell Williams song “Happy” was playing. Ms. Pinson was dancing, smiling and encouraging everyone in the room to let loose, have some fun and be HAPPY! It was a special moment that those of us in the room will remember for a long time.

- Ms. Dianne WheelerOSBP, Army Sustainment Command/Joint Munitions

Command

To my dear friend -- I will always remember your smile, your warmth, and the quiet times we spent together “just you and me.”

- Ms. Alice WilliamsAssociate DirectorCommunications-

Electronics Command OSBP

Page 21 Page 22


In December 2014, Ms. Jackie Robinson-Burnette, former Deputy Director, Army OSBP, accepted a position in the Senior

Executive Service (SES) with the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) as the Associate Administrator of the 8(a) Business Development Program. As the SBA’s Associate Administrator of Business Development, she is responsible for all 8(a) certification decisions, development of 8(a) firms, training grants under the SBA’s 7(j) Program, the 8(a) Mentor-Protégé Program, and training and development of SBA 8(a) Program Staff across the country.

Ms. Robinson-Burnette was promoted during a ceremony on January 30, at the Fort Belvoir Officer’s Club. Former and present co-workers, mentors, government officials, federal contractors, friends and family attended the event. Ms. Dawn Halfaker, CEO, Halfaker and Associates, LLC, a service-disabled veteran-owned, women-owned, 8(a) small

business, served as mistress of ceremony. Her mentors, HON Alphonso Maldon, Jr., former Assistant Secretary of Defense for Force Management and Policy, and LTG (Ret.) Joe Ballard, President and CEO of The Ravens Group, served as guest speakers. HON John Shoraka, Associate Administrator, Government Contracting and Business Development, SBA, administered the oath of office.

In her remarks, Ms. Robinson-Burnette cited her former supervisor and mentor, the late Ms. Tracey L. Pinson, former Director, Army OSBP, as her main source of inspiration for her dedication to small businesses. She reflected on how Ms. Pinson would be proud that she had achieved the rank of SES for a position that will help small businesses across the nation. ■

Submitted by:Ms. Monica EarlySupport Contractor, Army OSBP

Army Small Business Deputy Director Promoted to Senior Executive Service

Ms. Jackie Robinson-Burnette, Associate Administrator of the 8(a)

Business Development Program

On January 12, Army OSBP welcomed Ms. Sharon Morrow as the new Program Manager for the Army

Women-Owned Small Business (WOSB), Workforce Development and Major Weapons Programs. Ms. Morrow also supports the small business Associate Directors at the Army Corps of Engineers and Program Executive Office for Simulation, Training, and Instrumentation. Prior to this role, Ms. Morrow served as Acting Associate Director and Deputy Associate Director, U.S. Army Corps of Engineers OSBP.

Ms. Morrow brings a unique perspective to her new role as WOSB Program Manager because she was a small business owner herself. As a Financial Advisor providing guidance, planning and advice to individuals and small business owners, she has a thorough understanding of the challenges faced by entrepreneurs.

After September 11, 2001, a sense of patriotism drew Ms. Morrow back to civil service. She sold her business and accepted a position as a Contract Specialist at the USACE Los Angeles District where she acquired Military Construction (MILCON), civil works and Architectural-Engineering (A-E) services. Other assignments include USACE Charleston District - where she also acquired services; Mission and Installation Contracting Command (MICC) at Fort Eustis where she served as a Contracting Officer with

unlimited warrant authority acquiring complex, enterprise contracts for services for Installation Management Command (IMCOM) and Army Training and Doctrine Command (TRADOC); National Aeronautics and Space Agency (NASA) Langley Research Center - where she also acquired Research and Development (R&D); Procurement Analyst at Defense Commissary Agency (DeCA) responsible for developing policy for their new Construction Mission; and as the Assistant Director, Office of Small Business Programs at MICC – Fort Eustis. She was instrumental in implementing a strong post-award subcontracting plan administration program that was commended during the command’s Contracting Management Review (CMR) as an example for all other command’s to follow. She was selected as MICC’s Small Business Specialist of the Year in 2011.

Since taking on her role Ms. Morrow has hit the ground running by networking and attending women-owned and veteran-owned small business contracting events. On March 19, Ms. Morrow will be manning the Army OSBP booth at the Women as Veteran Entrepreneurs Small Business Seminar at The Women’s memorial at Arlington National Cemetery.

Ms. Morrow is optimistic about the continued growth of the Army WOSB Program. “I see great opportunity for woman-owned small businesses with the lifting of the threshold

for WOSB set-asides and the new legislation for the National Defense Authorization Act FY15 authorizing sole source WOSB and Economically Disadvantaged WOSB set-asides,” Ms. Morrow said. ■


Army OSBP Welcomes New Women-Owned Program Manager

Ms. Sharon Morrow, Program Manager, Army Women-Owned Small Business

Tribute to Ms. Tracey L. Pinson

Ms. Pinson was a true mentor and cared about people. She always supported my efforts and career advancement within the Army’s Small Business Program. I have fond memories of her and will sincerely miss her.

- Ms. Christine RyanAssociate Director, OSBP

Army Space & Missile Defense CommandArmy Forces Strategic Command

She’s a woman who moved mountains for small businesses.

- Mr. Cy C. SimonsProcurement Analyst, OSBP, USACE, Mobile District

It is my pleasure to share reflections of the invaluable experiences I have had while working with Ms. Pinson. She supported the small business community and Headquarters Army Materiel Command Base Realignment and Closure move from Ft. Belvoir, VA to Huntsville, AL. Ms. Pinson’s many professional accomplishments were impressive; however, I also called her my friend. I enjoyed being in her presence, sharing a meal, and lengthy conversations. Ms. Pinson was quite witty and told great jokes; I will miss the bond of commonalities we shared from our families, sororities, and our faith. I will continue to pray for her family. Ms. Pinson is sorely missed.

Isaiah 61:3 “To appoint them that mourn in Zion, He will give them beauty for ashes; the oil of joy for mourning; the garment of praise for the spirit of heaviness; that they may be called trees of righteousness, the planting of the LORD, that He may be glorified.”

- Ms. Nancy SmallAssociate Director, OSBPArmy Materiel Command

Many have commented on how Ms. Pinson helped minorities. She helped everyone. She made me want to be a better employee and human being. We all were so fortunate to have witnessed her charisma. Go Army.

- Ms. Linda L. SpadaroDeputy for Small Business, USACE, Mobile District

When Ms. Pinson arrived in the Small and Disadvantaged Business Utilization office as the Director in 1994, I saw a true leader. Her demeanor and enthusiastic attitude I will never forget. This was an amazing person, who gave her all in aiding others in and around small businesses. I am really proud to have worked on Ms. Pinson’s team, because when this beautiful lady speaks, you better listen.

Ms. Pinson has a higher job now which was approved by her God himself.

- Edith St. CatherineStaff Action Control Officer

Army OSBP

The precious memories of you will remain in our hearts forever. You were an inspiration to us all and your laughter and beautiful smile are truly missed. I am honored at having the pleasure to know and work for such a dedicated, gifted and committed professional woman. Someone said, “Perhaps they are not stars, but openings in Heaven” and really believe there is an extra star in the skies shining brightly over us all now. We miss you Ms. Pinson!

- Ms. Marina SullivanSupport Contractor

Army OSBP

A joyful memory: It was the final morning of the Army OSBP Professional Training on May 22, 2014 in Alexandria, VA. Most of us had spent the last 48 hours together in a small classroom setting learning and sharing small business program topics. As the attendees were gathering for the morning session, the Pharrell Williams song “Happy” was playing. Ms. Pinson was dancing, smiling and encouraging everyone in the room to let loose, have some fun and be HAPPY! It was a special moment that those of us in the room will remember for a long time.

- Ms. Dianne WheelerOSBP, Army Sustainment Command/Joint Munitions

Command

To my dear friend -- I will always remember your smile, your warmth, and the quiet times we spent together “just you and me.”

- Ms. Alice WilliamsAssociate DirectorCommunications-

Electronics Command OSBP

Page 21 Page 22


In December 2014, Ms. Jackie Robinson-Burnette, former Deputy Director, Army OSBP, accepted a position in the Senior

Executive Service (SES) with the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) as the Associate Administrator of the 8(a) Business Development Program. As the SBA’s Associate Administrator of Business Development, she is responsible for all 8(a) certification decisions, development of 8(a) firms, training grants under the SBA’s 7(j) Program, the 8(a) Mentor-Protégé Program, and training and development of SBA 8(a) Program Staff across the country.

Ms. Robinson-Burnette was promoted during a ceremony on January 30, at the Fort Belvoir Officer’s Club. Former and present co-workers, mentors, government officials, federal contractors, friends and family attended the event. Ms. Dawn Halfaker, CEO, Halfaker and Associates, LLC, a service-disabled veteran-owned, women-owned, 8(a) small

business, served as mistress of ceremony. Her mentors, HON Alphonso Maldon, Jr., former Assistant Secretary of Defense for Force Management and Policy, and LTG (Ret.) Joe Ballard, President and CEO of The Ravens Group, served as guest speakers. HON John Shoraka, Associate Administrator, Government Contracting and Business Development, SBA, administered the oath of office.

In her remarks, Ms. Robinson-Burnette cited her former supervisor and mentor, the late Ms. Tracey L. Pinson, former Director, Army OSBP, as her main source of inspiration for her dedication to small businesses. She reflected on how Ms. Pinson would be proud that she had achieved the rank of SES for a position that will help small businesses across the nation. ■


Army Small Business Deputy Director Promoted to Senior Executive Service

Ms. Jackie Robinson-Burnette, Associate Administrator of the 8(a)

Business Development Program

On January 12, Army OSBP welcomed Ms. Sharon Morrow as the new Program Manager for the Army

Women-Owned Small Business (WOSB), Workforce Development and Major Weapons Programs. Ms. Morrow also supports the small business Associate Directors at the Army Corps of Engineers and Program Executive Office for Simulation, Training, and Instrumentation. Prior to this role, Ms. Morrow served as Acting Associate Director and Deputy Associate Director, U.S. Army Corps of Engineers OSBP.

Ms. Morrow brings a unique perspective to her new role as WOSB Program Manager because she was a small business owner herself. As a Financial Advisor providing guidance, planning and advice to individuals and small business owners, she has a thorough understanding of the challenges faced by entrepreneurs.

After September 11, 2001, a sense of patriotism drew Ms. Morrow back to civil service. She sold her business and accepted a position as a Contract Specialist at the USACE Los Angeles District where she acquired Military Construction (MILCON), civil works and Architectural-Engineering (A-E) services. Other assignments include USACE Charleston District - where she also acquired services; Mission and Installation Contracting Command (MICC) at Fort Eustis where she served as a Contracting Officer with

unlimited warrant authority acquiring complex, enterprise contracts for services for Installation Management Command (IMCOM) and Army Training and Doctrine Command (TRADOC); National Aeronautics and Space Agency (NASA) Langley Research Center - where she also acquired Research and Development (R&D); Procurement Analyst at Defense Commissary Agency (DeCA) responsible for developing policy for their new Construction Mission; and as the Assistant Director, Office of Small Business Programs at MICC – Fort Eustis. She was instrumental in implementing a strong post-award subcontracting plan administration program that was commended during the command’s Contracting Management Review (CMR) as an example for all other command’s to follow. She was selected as MICC’s Small Business Specialist of the Year in 2011.

Since taking on her role Ms. Morrow has hit the ground running by networking and attending women-owned and veteran-owned small business contracting events. On March 19, Ms. Morrow will be manning the Army OSBP booth at the Women as Veteran Entrepreneurs Small Business Seminar at The Women’s memorial at Arlington National Cemetery.

Ms. Morrow is optimistic about the continued growth of the Army WOSB Program. “I see great opportunity for woman-owned small businesses with the lifting of the threshold

for WOSB set-asides and the new legislation for the National Defense Authorization Act FY15 authorizing sole source WOSB and Economically Disadvantaged WOSB set-asides,” Ms. Morrow said. ■


Army OSBP Welcomes New Women-Owned Program Manager

Ms. Sharon Morrow, Program Manager, Army Women-Owned Small Business

Page 23 Page 24


Army OSBP staff attended the National Veterans Small Business Engagement (NVSBE) on December 9-11. This annual event, held in Atlanta,

GA at the Georgia World Congress Center, provides small business owners the opportunity to network with other businesses and to connect with government contracting authorities and decision makers.

The theme for the engagement was “Access.” The purpose of this year’s event was to “provide attendees an unprecedented level of engagement that helps small businesses, particularly Veterans, compete for and win business.” In the spirit of the “Access” theme, the Army OSBP along with the DoD OSBP met with hundreds of small business attendees at the Army OSBP booth, providing them with vital information regarding upcoming opportunities and points of contact at OSBP offices from all Army commands.

“Booth visitors were extremely satisfied with the one-to-one matchmaking sessions. They walked away satisfied

with their personal experience after visiting the Army OSBP booth, Ms. Veronica Atkinson, Administrative Officer, Army OSBP, said.

Networking at the Army OSBP booth was not the only way Army provided “access” to small businesses at NVSBE. Staff from the Army Corps of Engineers contracting and small business offices also held roundtable sessions and spoke at informational sessions.

The Army team ensured their attendance at NVSBE gave attendees access to key decision makers, provided vital information and answers to the business owners’ questions, and provided a means for Veteran and other small business owners to connect with and foster a working relationship with the Army. ■


Army OSBP support contractor Mr. Ricardo Ruiz recently added a map to the popular Army Small Business Specialist Directory on the Army OSBP

website (http://sellingtoarmy.com/army-small-business-specialists). This tool, which runs on Google Maps, provides a simple visual representation of Army small business personnel locations across the country. Each Small Business Specialist appears as an icon on the map which, when clicked, displays a window with that Specialist’s contact information. Users can navigate the map by zooming to a specific location or can search the map by command, last name, state, or zip code.

The Army Small Business Specialist Directory is one of the most popular and useful tools on the Army OSBP website with over 2,000 page views per month. Small businesses use this tool to locate Small Business Specialists near them or at installations that buy their products and services.

If you would like to provide feedback on the map feature or on anything else related to the website, please use the contact form here: http://sellingtoarmy.com/contact. ■

Submitted by:Mr. Anthony BraunProject Manager, Support Contractor, Army OSBP

Army Provides “Access” at Veteran Small Business Engagement

New Map Feature Added to Army Small Business Specialist Directory

Over 60 registered vendors attended the Women as Veteran Entrepreneurs (WAVE) Policy Update Breakfast on January 22 at the Women’s Memorial

at the Arlington National Cemetery. Both the Veterans’ Administration (VA) Office of Small and Disadvantaged Business Utilization (OSDBU) and Army OSBP exhibited at the event.

Ms. Pamela Monroe, Program Manager, Army Mentor-Protégé Program, and Ms. Sharon Morrow, attended the WAVE Policy Update Breakfast meeting from 0830-1200. They provided coaching and guidance to approximately 30 vendors in attendance. Ms. Chireda Gaither, Manager, Supplier Diversity, Computer Sciences Corporation interviewed several guest speakers. She was well prepared with questions but also encouraged questions from the audience.

The event started with Mr. Jose Arrieta, Director, OSDBU, Department of Treasury, who recommended that businesses invest a small percentage (one percent) of their profits back into their business infrastructure and provided a few examples of some companies who were successful in obtaining contracts because they did so. He recommended that businesses identify opportunities from the Federal Business Opportunities website (www.fbo.gov) and then narrow those down based on their revenue, location, capability and desired agency.

Next, Ms. Julie Clowes, Deputy District Director at the Washington Metropolitan Area District of the Small Business Administration (SBA), spoke about the changes to the WOSB program authorized in the FY15 National Defense Authorization Act. The legislation authorizes Contracting Officers to do sole source awards to WOSBs and Economically Disadvantaged WOSBs. The rulemaking process has begun at SBA and the final rules, once vetted through the rulemaking process, will be incorporated into the Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR) in the next few years. She also reminded the audience about a proposed rule published in the Federal Register on December 29, 2014 that proposed changes to the limitations on subcontracting that allows small businesses to subcontract to other small businesses without that counting against them in the percentage that can be subcontracted. The closing date for comments on the proposed rule was February 27.

Then, Mr. Shawn Ralston, Small Business Liaison Officer, AECOM, spoke about the opportunities small businesses can find by pursuing contracts acquired using Simplified Acquisition Procedures (SAP) for requirements - both goods and services - usually less than $150 thousand, but up to $6.5 million for commercial items under the

Commercial Test Program under FAR 13.5. He mentioned that SAP acquisitions in FY14 exceeded $17 billion and that working on SAP contracts is a great way to build past performance.

Afterwards, Mr. Antoine Broughton, Verification Support at Department of Veteran Affairs Center for Veterans Enterprise (CVE), spoke about the biggest hurdle to the service-disabled verification process - submitting an incomplete package. If the CVE receives a complete package, their processing time averages 42 days with a 93 percent approval rate. He mentioned that it can cost service-disabled veteran-owned businesses as much as $20 thousand or more to work with private industry to obtain their service-disabled verification but CVE provides their services for free.

After a short networking break, Ms. Janet Scott, Director, OSDBU, Department of Education, spoke about opportunities for small businesses through grants. She stated that most of their funds are for grants and follow-on contracts or support for the grants, such as IT support for student financial aid processing. She encouraged businesses to create non-profits to pursue grants through her agency.

Next, Mr. Robert Stewart, Assistant Director of Acquisition Compliance - Support, Office of the Secretary of Defense, Acquisition, Technology and Logistics, OSBP, spoke about the Department of Defense Mentor-Protégé Program. He encouraged small businesses to respond to sources sought notices and provide proposals where there is a reserve for small business. He also encouraged small businesses to read Better Buying Power 3.0.

Finally, Ms. Jennifer Sokole, Principal Analyst, Deltek, spoke about the top ten federal acquisition opportunities for small business in FY15. She provided the top ten small business set-asides (SBSAs) to those in attendance. She spoke about trends in small business spending. In FY15, there are three times the dollars anticipated to be spent for the top ten SBSAs than in FY14. There are fewer socioeconomic set-asides in the top ten SBSAs in FY15 than in FY14.

Overall, the event was a tremendous success in providing updates to all in attendance and providing an opportunity to ask questions of government subject matter experts and to develop business relationships. ■

Submitted by:Ms. Sharon R. Morrow, Program Manager, Army Women-Owned Small Business and Workforce Development Programs, Army OSBP

Women as Veteran Entrepreneurs Policy Update Breakfast

Page 23 Page 24


Army OSBP staff attended the National Veterans Small Business Engagement (NVSBE) on December 9-11. This annual event, held in Atlanta,

GA at the Georgia World Congress Center, provides small business owners the opportunity to network with other businesses and to connect with government contracting authorities and decision makers.

The theme for the engagement was “Access.” The purpose of this year’s event was to “provide attendees an unprecedented level of engagement that helps small businesses, particularly Veterans, compete for and win business.” In the spirit of the “Access” theme, the Army OSBP along with the DoD OSBP met with hundreds of small business attendees at the Army OSBP booth, providing them with vital information regarding upcoming opportunities and points of contact at OSBP offices from all Army commands.

“Booth visitors were extremely satisfied with the one-to-one matchmaking sessions. They walked away satisfied

with their personal experience after visiting the Army OSBP booth, Ms. Veronica Atkinson, Administrative Officer, Army OSBP, said.

Networking at the Army OSBP booth was not the only way Army provided “access” to small businesses at NVSBE. Staff from the Army Corps of Engineers contracting and small business offices also held roundtable sessions and spoke at informational sessions.

The Army team ensured their attendance at NVSBE gave attendees access to key decision makers, provided vital information and answers to the business owners’ questions, and provided a means for Veteran and other small business owners to connect with and foster a working relationship with the Army. ■


Army OSBP support contractor Mr. Ricardo Ruiz recently added a map to the popular Army Small Business Specialist Directory on the Army OSBP

website (http://sellingtoarmy.com/army-small-business-specialists). This tool, which runs on Google Maps, provides a simple visual representation of Army small business personnel locations across the country. Each Small Business Specialist appears as an icon on the map which, when clicked, displays a window with that Specialist’s contact information. Users can navigate the map by zooming to a specific location or can search the map by command, last name, state, or zip code.

The Army Small Business Specialist Directory is one of the most popular and useful tools on the Army OSBP website with over 2,000 page views per month. Small businesses use this tool to locate Small Business Specialists near them or at installations that buy their products and services.

If you would like to provide feedback on the map feature or on anything else related to the website, please use the contact form here: http://sellingtoarmy.com/contact. ■

Submitted by:Mr. Anthony BraunProject Manager, Support Contractor, Army OSBP

Army Provides “Access” at Veteran Small Business Engagement

New Map Feature Added to Army Small Business Specialist Directory

Over 60 registered vendors attended the Women as Veteran Entrepreneurs (WAVE) Policy Update Breakfast on January 22 at the Women’s Memorial

at the Arlington National Cemetery. Both the Veterans’ Administration (VA) Office of Small and Disadvantaged Business Utilization (OSDBU) and Army OSBP exhibited at the event.

Ms. Pamela Monroe, Program Manager, Army Mentor-Protégé Program, and Ms. Sharon Morrow, attended the WAVE Policy Update Breakfast meeting from 0830-1200. They provided coaching and guidance to approximately 30 vendors in attendance. Ms. Chireda Gaither, Manager, Supplier Diversity, Computer Sciences Corporation interviewed several guest speakers. She was well prepared with questions but also encouraged questions from the audience.

The event started with Mr. Jose Arrieta, Director, OSDBU, Department of Treasury, who recommended that businesses invest a small percentage (one percent) of their profits back into their business infrastructure and provided a few examples of some companies who were successful in obtaining contracts because they did so. He recommended that businesses identify opportunities from the Federal Business Opportunities website (www.fbo.gov) and then narrow those down based on their revenue, location, capability and desired agency.

Next, Ms. Julie Clowes, Deputy District Director at the Washington Metropolitan Area District of the Small Business Administration (SBA), spoke about the changes to the WOSB program authorized in the FY15 National Defense Authorization Act. The legislation authorizes Contracting Officers to do sole source awards to WOSBs and Economically Disadvantaged WOSBs. The rulemaking process has begun at SBA and the final rules, once vetted through the rulemaking process, will be incorporated into the Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR) in the next few years. She also reminded the audience about a proposed rule published in the Federal Register on December 29, 2014 that proposed changes to the limitations on subcontracting that allows small businesses to subcontract to other small businesses without that counting against them in the percentage that can be subcontracted. The closing date for comments on the proposed rule was February 27.

Then, Mr. Shawn Ralston, Small Business Liaison Officer, AECOM, spoke about the opportunities small businesses can find by pursuing contracts acquired using Simplified Acquisition Procedures (SAP) for requirements - both goods and services - usually less than $150 thousand, but up to $6.5 million for commercial items under the

Commercial Test Program under FAR 13.5. He mentioned that SAP acquisitions in FY14 exceeded $17 billion and that working on SAP contracts is a great way to build past performance.

Afterwards, Mr. Antoine Broughton, Verification Support at Department of Veteran Affairs Center for Veterans Enterprise (CVE), spoke about the biggest hurdle to the service-disabled verification process - submitting an incomplete package. If the CVE receives a complete package, their processing time averages 42 days with a 93 percent approval rate. He mentioned that it can cost service-disabled veteran-owned businesses as much as $20 thousand or more to work with private industry to obtain their service-disabled verification but CVE provides their services for free.

After a short networking break, Ms. Janet Scott, Director, OSDBU, Department of Education, spoke about opportunities for small businesses through grants. She stated that most of their funds are for grants and follow-on contracts or support for the grants, such as IT support for student financial aid processing. She encouraged businesses to create non-profits to pursue grants through her agency.

Next, Mr. Robert Stewart, Assistant Director of Acquisition Compliance - Support, Office of the Secretary of Defense, Acquisition, Technology and Logistics, OSBP, spoke about the Department of Defense Mentor-Protégé Program. He encouraged small businesses to respond to sources sought notices and provide proposals where there is a reserve for small business. He also encouraged small businesses to read Better Buying Power 3.0.

Finally, Ms. Jennifer Sokole, Principal Analyst, Deltek, spoke about the top ten federal acquisition opportunities for small business in FY15. She provided the top ten small business set-asides (SBSAs) to those in attendance. She spoke about trends in small business spending. In FY15, there are three times the dollars anticipated to be spent for the top ten SBSAs than in FY14. There are fewer socioeconomic set-asides in the top ten SBSAs in FY15 than in FY14.

Overall, the event was a tremendous success in providing updates to all in attendance and providing an opportunity to ask questions of government subject matter experts and to develop business relationships. ■

Submitted by:Ms. Sharon R. Morrow, Program Manager, Army Women-Owned Small Business and Workforce Development Programs, Army OSBP

Women as Veteran Entrepreneurs Policy Update Breakfast

Page 25

25 Newsletter | March 2015

Calendar of Events

Please visit www.sellingtoarmy.com and click on “Calendar of Events”, for the most updated list.

DATE EVENT TITLE LOCATION

03/30/2015 2015 Team Redstone Small Business Industry Outreach Redstone Arsensal, AL

03/31/2015 AUSA Institute of Land Warfare Global Force Symposium and Exposition

Huntsville, AL

04/02/2015 Dynamic Networking for Small Business (DyNet) Fairmont, WV

04/09/2015 “How To Do Business with Camp Lejeune” - Small Business Outreach Events

Jacksonville, NC

04/10/2015 U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Baltimore District, Industry Day Linthicum Heights, MD

04/13/2015 Sea-Air-Space 2015 National Harbor, MD

04/14/2015 “How To Do Business with MCAS Cherry Point” - Small Business Outreach Event

Morehead City, NC

04/15/2015 25th Anniversary Government Procurement Conference Washington, DC

04/21/2015 Michigan Defense Exposition (MDEX) Warren, MI

04/23/2015 Alliance Texas 2015 Small Business Procurement Fair Arlington, TX

04/28/2015 EPA Women-Owned Small Business (WOSB) Counseling Session Washington, DC

05/05/2015 Veterans Employment Fair & Expo Atlanta, GA

05/06/2015 U.S. State Department Women-Owned Small Business (WOSB), Service-Disable Veteran Owned (SDV) & HubZone Outreach Session

Washington, DC

05/19/2015 2015 SOFIC (Special Operations Forces Industry Conference) Tampa, FL

05/19/2015 AUSA Institute of Land Warfare (ILW) LANPAC Symposium and Exposition

Honolulu, HI

06/03/2015 8th Annual Midwest Small Business Government Contracting Symposium

Moline, IL

06/09/2015 Veteran Entrepreneur Training Symposium Norfolk, VA

06/15/2015 National SBIR/STTR Conference National Harbor, MD

06/16/2015 U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) 14th Annual Small Business Forum & Expo

Phoenix, AZ

11/30/2015 I/ITSEC Orlando, FL

Page 2











Page 25 Page 26

25 Newsletter | March 2015

U.S. Army OSBPOur Mission• Advise the Secretary of the Army and the

Army leadership on small business related matters

• Spearhead innovative initiatives that contribute to expanding the small business industrial base relevant to the Army mission priorities

• Leverage the use of minority serving educational institutions in support of Army science and technology programs

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

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

-President Barack Obama

Production of the next issue is already underway!Please submit articles to: [email protected]

Article submission deadline: May 1, 2015

Feedback Let us know what you think about the newsletter by filling out our contact form at: http://www.sellingtoarmy.com/contact

Calendar of Events

Please visit www.sellingtoarmy.com and click on “Calendar of Events”, for the most updated list.

DATE EVENT TITLE LOCATION

03/30/2015 2015 Team Redstone Small Business Industry Outreach Redstone Arsensal, AL

03/31/2015 AUSA Institute of Land Warfare Global Force Symposium and Exposition

Huntsville, AL

04/02/2015 Dynamic Networking for Small Business (DyNet) Fairmont, WV

04/13/2015 Sea-Air-Space 2015 National Harbor, MD

04/15/2015 25th Anniversary Government Procurement Conference Washington, DC

05/06/2015 U.S. State Department Women-Owned Small Business (WOSB), Service-Disable Veteran Owned (SDV) & HubZone Outreach Session

Washington, DC

05/19/2015 2015 SOFIC (Special Operations Forces Industry Conference) Tampa, FL

05/19/2015 AUSA Institute of Land Warfare (ILW) LANPAC Symposium and Exposition

Honolulu, HI

06/03/2015 8th Annual Midwest Small Business Government Contracting Symposium

Moline, IL

06/09/2015 Veteran Entrepreneur Training Symposium Norfolk, VA

06/15/2015 National SBIR/STTR Conference National Harbor, MD

Documents

Army OSBP Newsletter - March 2015