In an effort to help Airmen and civilian base members better understand the requirements and acquisition process, the 366th Contracting Squadron hosted a Mission Partner College seminar Nov. 14.
The seminar brought together subject matter experts from several base agencies that have a role in reviewing or approving requirements packages.
“The Mission Partner College is a chance for us to take a bit of the confusion and frustration out of the acquisition process so our Airmen have a better understanding of what is required of them, and they are better able to understand the power they have in the acquisitions process,” said Maj. Brian Williams, 366th CONS commander.
This year’s seminar was designed to be an interactive experience for attendees encouraging them to ask questions about their unit’s individual requirements, and to communicate any issues they may have with the process.
“The acquisitions process can be very daunting, especially if you don’t know where to start, so [the seminar] gives people a starting point,” said Senior Master Sgt. Rosita Goodrum, 366th CONS superintendent. “We’re giving folks an opportunity to come out and learn about the acquisitions process from start to finish.
Goodrum said it’s beneficial for the attendees to network with all the different agencies because it makes it easier for them to get the answers they need in a timely manner.
“We’re all going to have hands on your requirements package, so it’s important for you to know what information you need from each agency in order to ensure your requirements are met,” Goodrum said.
Seminar organizers walked the audience through a scenario outlining the requirements for a media center room, and had agencies brief on their role in the process.
Williams said it’s important for Airmen to know they have the power to improve their facilities through the acquisition process.
“If you have an idea, work with your leadership to get that idea resourced and purchased because there’s a high likelihood you are going to have an idea that’s going to make their work center better for years to come,” Williams said.
Goodrum stressed the importance of starting the acquisition process early in order to ensure there’s time to fulfill a requirement.
“The earlier we see requirements packages, the better,” Goodrum said. “We don’t expect everyone to know all the steps in the acquisitions process or to be experts, so if you have any questions, just ask and we’ll help you obtain what you need.”