Off the Shelf

This week on Off the Shelf, Moshe Schwartz, president of Etherton & Associates, joins host Roger Waldron to discuss the geopolitical landscape facing the nation and how it driving defense acquisition policy reform. Schwartz shares his insights on procurement, logistical and supply chain challenges and opportunities driving the Department of War’s (DoW’s) restructuring/reform of acquisition operations. He also highlights some under the radar provisions of the NDAA, and dissects the readiness challenge facing DoW, sharing his insight the key management changes that are improving readiness along with what more can be done.  See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

This week on Off the Shelf, Bill Gormley, president of the Gormley Group, and Alan Thomas, founder of Alpha Tango Strategies, recap the 2025 year in federal procurement and look ahead to 2026.  Gormley and Thomas cover a host of topics, including the impact of the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), the RFO, consolidation efforts at GSA, the cancellation of CIO-SP4, and the GSA Reseller Request for Information (RFI). They also share their thoughts and analysis on the Revolutionary FAR Overhaul (RFO) with the formal rulemaking looming in 2026. Finally Gormley and Thomas discuss the establishment of the Office of Centralized Acquisition Services (OCAS) in GSA’s Federal Acquisition Service. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

This week on Off the Shelf, Ken Dodds, executive vice president and general counsel for Coalition for Common Sense in Government Procurement, joins host Roger Waldron to discuss some of the most important small business rules impacting procurement. In the wake of the Department of War’s memo on pass-throughs and reviewing set-asides over $20 million, Dodds shares his insights on framework and limitations on subcontracting under small business set-asides contracts and the government’s corresponding focus when reviewing subcontracts under set-asides and want constitutes a potential pass-through situation. He provides the nuances inherit in these rules that play an understated role in management of small business programs.  Finally Dodds gives his thoughts on a host of current procurement topics, including GSA’s Reseller RFI, commercial practices and the RFO.  See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

This week on Off the Shelf, Brian Friel from BD Squared, addresses the state of governmentwide contracting. Friel gives a postmortem on CIO-SP4 including lessons learned and pitfalls to avoid when utilizing a self-scoring evaluation model. He also gives an update on OASIS+ and the IT GWACs, including NASA SEWP VI, POLARSIS, Alliant 3, and highlights the Alliant’s programs major step forward in announcing the first set of awardees. Other topics included the impact of the RFO on governmentwide contracting, including the new FAR Part 8’s framework for mandatory contracts, and FAR Part 16’s revision that allows Blanket Purchase Agreements under Multiple Award contracts other than the Schedules.Finally, Friel gives his thoughts on OASIS+ and the Army’s MAPS procurement.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Joanne Woytek, NASA SEWP program director, joins Off the Shelf to discuss the performace of the NASA SEWP V contract over the past decade.She provides an overview of the program's key metrics, including customer profile, current year and overall performance, types, and scope of mission support for customer agencies. Woytek also discusses the role of data -- explaining how NASA SEWP supports customer agencies through procurement data collection and analysis, and she gives an update on NASA SEWP VI.  The evolution of technology and the NASA SEWP approach to meeting customer needs are another discussion topic.  Finally, Woytek shares her thoughts on the keys to management success in leading the program for over two decades. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

This week on Off the Shelf, Jessica Tillipman, associate Dean for Government Procurement Law at The George Washington University Law School, grades the Revolutionary FAR Overhaul (RFO) and outlines the risks and opportunities of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in government procurement operations. Tillipman gives her assessment of the RFO, highlighting key changes and the overall impact. Listen in to hear her grades and analysis of the RFO! She also provides a tutorial understanding AI architecture through a “Wedding Cake” model.Finally, Tillipman discusses the key procurement policy considerations surrounding the use of AI, including addressing potential conflicts of interest, ensuring protection of data, and fostering competition. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Zach Terwilliger and Alex Canizares, partners with Vinson & Elkins, join Off the Shelf, for a wide-ranging discussion of the current compliance environment for government contractors.Terwilliger discusses current Department of Justice priorities relating to criminal and civil enforcement and what government contractors should be focusing on. He and Canizares also provide their insights regarding the Trump administration’s approach to the False Claims Act highlighting the interplay with procurement polices like CMMC. The duo also shares their thoughts regarding the administration’s Civil Rights Fraud initiative and its implications for contractors.Terwilliger and Canizares also share key FCA trends and provide their best practices for compliance. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

This week on Off the Shelf, Rob Burton, partner at Crowell & Moring LLP, provides his insights and analysis of the Revolutionary FAR Overhaul (RFO), the ongoing restructuring of procurement operations across government, and the implications and opportunities for government contractors.Burton shares his thoughts on key RFO changes, including the new MAS ordering procedures, FAR Part 19, and the FAR Part 12 changes. He also offers a clear, concise, and compelling outline of the goals for the RFO and the move to consolidate procurement operations across government.   See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Emily Murphy, CEO and founder of Government Procurement Strategies (GPS), joins Off the Shelf for a wide-ranging discussion on the state of the federal procurement market.  As a former GSA Administrator, Murphy shares her keen insights regarding the Trump administration’s re-engineering and re-structuring of federal procurement. She highlights the administration’s overarching policy and operational goals including, but not limited to, increasing efficiency, reducing operational costs, and increasing access to the commercial market and commercial solutions.Topics include the consolidation of procurement operations at GSA, how GSA is responding to its expanded role and the progress and potential impact of the Revolutionary FAR Overhaul (RFO). For example, Murphy addresses the significant changes to FAR Part 8 of the FAR. Finally, Murphy shares her thoughts on key management principles for government leaders.   See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Ken Dodds, executive vice president, and general counsel at the Coalition for Common Sense in Government Procurement, joins Off the Shelf for a wide-ranging discussion of the Revolutionary FAR Overhaul (RFO). Dodds shares his analysis and insights on how the RFO will shape the federal procurement market, and gives his thoughts on the rewrites of key FAR Parts, including Parts 8, 12, and 19. He also looks to the formal rule-making process that will kick off in FY26, highlighting the importance of strong public engagement.Finally, Dodds discusses small business opportunities in the federal procurement market.  See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Jason Workmaster, member at Miller Chevalier, joins Off the Shelf for a “shut down” 101. Workmaster shares best practices for contract management for contractors impacted by a shutdown, and explains how preparation, documentation, and communication are critical to managing potential changes in contract performance, including stop work orders. In the context of a shutdown, it is vital for contractors to understand the key contract terms and conditions governing performance and payment and status of government funding for contract performance.Is your contract fully funded or incrementally funded?  What type or color of money supports your contract?  Proactive outreach to contracting officers, employees, and subcontractors is critical to successful management during a shutdown. And of course, be sure to document key communications, management measures taken, and costs incurred in response to a shutdown induced stop work order.   See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Alan Thomas, founder of Alpha Tango Strategies, and Bill Gormley of the Gormley Group, join Off the Shelf for a wide-ranging update on the latest procurement news. Thomas and Gormley provide their insights and viewpoints on the Revolutionary FAR Overhaul, the creation of the Office of Centralized Acquisition Services (OCAS) at GSA, and GSA’s OneGov initiative. They highlight the changes to FAR part 8 and significance of the move of the Federal Supply Schedule (FSS) ordering procedures to the General Services Acquisition Regulation (GSAR). Thomas and Gormley also discuss the new role of mandatory use or required contracts and the impact on the Best-in-Class contracts. Do we need the BIC methodology? The discussion then turns to OCAS and its scope of operations and the challenges in standing up the new organization.Finally, Thomas and Gormley give their thoughts on OnGov, harkening back to the Smart Buy program and the use of FSS BPAs.  See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Brian Friel, co-founder of BD Squared, joins Off the Shelf, for a wide-ranging discussion of the state of interagency contracting in the new federal market. Friel provides an update on the GWAC landscape, including updates on NASA SEWP, CIO-SP4, Alliant 3, and Polaris and he talks about the consolidation of procurement operations at the General Services Administration (GSA) including the update FAR Part 8 rewrite establishing a hierarchy of contract vehicles.Friel also addresses GSA’s Multiple Award Schedule (MAS) program, giving his thoughts on the new ordering procedures, the role of Blanket Purchase Agreements (BPAs) and the prospects for accelerated growth in use of the program. Finally, Brian explains how companies can position themselves to compete in a rapidly changing federal market.   See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Larry Allen, GSA’s associate administrator for the Office of Government-wide Policy, joins Off the Shelf for an engaging procurement policy discussion. Allen addresses the ongoing changes in policy that are shaping procurement operations government-wide. Much of the discussion focuses on the Revolutionary FAR Overhaul (RFO), highlighting the policy goals and operational imperatives driving the RFO. Allen also highlights the progress to date and shares key takeaways regarding recent deviations addressing FAR parts 8 and 12.   He also gives an update on procurement consolidation, and the impact of the Schedules program moving to Transactional Data Reporting (TDR) and the resulting demise of the Price Reduction Clause (PRC). Finally, Allen explains the wide-ranging policy management role his office plays in supporting department and agencies across government. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

This week’s guest on Off the Shelf is Ben Hall, chief executive officer of Golden State Medical Supply (GSMS). Hall shares the GSMS story, from its founding by an Air Force veteran in the 1980s to its role today delivering cost-effective, high-quality generic pharmaceuticals to the Department of Veterans Affairs and Department of Defense. He discusses the role data management and analytics plays in delivering value to the customer across government and how GSMS is now supporting the brand name federal market. Finally Hall talks about the opportunities and challenges in driving domestic and near-shore manufacturing of pharmaceuticals.  See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

This week’s guest on Off the Shelf is Jason Workmaster from Miller & Chevalier. Workmaster discusses the potential legal implications of the Revolutionary FAR Overhaul (RFO), and analyzes the key features of the RFO and the implications for contractors and contracting officers. He highlights the potential ramifications for the bid protest process and the roles of GAO and the Court of Claims.  Turning to GSA’s Multiple Award Schedule (MAS) program, Workmaster gives his thoughts on the expansion of Transactional Data Reporting (TDR) across the program and what contractors need to focus on during the expansion.  Finally, he outlines the Department of Justice’s enforcement priorities for government contractors under the new Trump administration.  See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

This week’s guest on Off the Shelf, is Ken Dodds, executive vice president, and general counsel for the Coalition for Common Sense in Government Procurement.During the show, Dodds shares his insights on implementing the Revolutionary FAR Overhaul (RFO) and how the reform will likely reshape key aspects of the procurement process. Dodds also highlights some the key parts of the FAR that will have the biggest potential impact on contracting officers and contractors, and he gives his thoughts on the current round of acquisition reform legislation being considered by Congress. Dodds also addresses GSA’s expansion of Transactional Data Reporting (TDR) and the implications for the program, including the demise of the Price Reduction Clause.Finally he talks about small business issues and the procurement system. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Kraig Conrad, CEO of the National Contract Management Association (NCMA) and chair of the Commerce & Contract Management Institute is this week’s guest on Off the Shelf. Conrad shares his vision for the NCMA and how it is responding to the sweeping changes in federal procurement. He highlights NCMA’s role in the continuous professional development of the acquisition workforce, and outlines the role NCMA plays in developing standards and certifications and how it is evolving to meet the rapidly changing procurement and contract management landscape.  Conrad also discusses the various training/learning opportunities across NCMA’s local chapters, training events, webinars, briefing and, of course, World Congress. Finally, he talks about the role the Commerce & Contract Management Institute is playing in advancing the contract management profession across the globe.  See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

This week on Off the Shelf, Rob Burton, partner at Crowell & Moring LLP, shares his insights and analysis on how the Trump Administration’s first 100 days is restructuring the federal procurement market. Burton discusses the Department of Government Efficiency structure and role in the resetting procurement operations, and highlights the key executive orders reshaping the procurement system, including the consolidation of procurement at GSA, the FAR re-write, and the streamlining of defense acquisition. Burton talks about the key organizations, vision, and goals for the procurement consolidation and the revolutionary FAR Overhaul (RFO). Finally, he shares his thoughts on the future of government-wide and commercial item contracting, including his take on the federal supply schedules and the IT GWACs. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

This week on Off the Shelf, Tina Murphy, president & CEO of GHX, discusses commercial best practices in healthcare supply chain management. Murphy addresses the imperative of simplifying federal healthcare operations through automation technology for order and data management to improve patient care, and explains how digital transformation supports supply chain resilience addressing vulnerabilities and disruptions brought on by events like COVID-19. Automation and AI are driving end-to-end visibility in the healthcare supply chain providing flexibility and creating adaptive “living ecosystems” that are driving efficiencies and resiliency across supply chains. The return on investment for AI and automation means lower costs and better outcomes for patients. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Brian Friel, founder of BD Squared, joins host Roger Waldron on Off the Shelf for a discussion focusing on the consolidation of procurement functions at GSA and the future of interagency contracting. Friel provides his insights and analysis of the leading IT GWAC and governmentwide contracts, including NASA SEWP, CIO-SP4, OASIS+, and the Multiple Award Schedule (MAS) program.He also outlines the overall performance of these vehicles and discusses their current and future status, and shares his his thoughts on the current performance of the MAS program and the likely central role it will play in supporting customer agency operations. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Bill Greenwalt, senior fellow at the American Enterprise Institute and Moshe Schwartz, president of Etherton and Associates, join host Roger Waldron on Off the Shelf for a wide ranging, thought-provoking discussion of the imperative for procurement reform. Now more than ever! Greenwalk and Schwartz highlight current consensus coalescing around the need for across-the-board reform of procurement programs, policies, and regulations to deliver innovative, cost-effective, and timely products and services that meet mission requirements. They provide context, highlighting the history of procurement reform and subsequent “re-regulation",and then share their views on key reforms that will drive innovation and streamline delivery of systems. Topics include the FoRGED Act’s intent and key provisions, the role of nontraditional firms, the various executive orders on acquisition reform, and the Defense Production Act. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

This week's Off the Shelf focuses on the mission of the Department of Justice’s Procurement Collusion Strike Force (the PCSF).The PCSF is charged with coordinating the national response to antitrust and related crimes in procurement and grant programs at the federal, state, and local levels.It was created to fight procurement collusion which undermines the integrity of the procurement system, diminishes faith in government, and costs the taxpayer billions of dollars.The PCSF’s director Daniel Glad and deputy director Sandra Talbot join host Roger Waldron to discuss the PCSF’s mission, what it has accomplished, and what contractors and attorneys should know regarding compliance best practices.Glad and Talbot talk about what constitutes antitrust crimes in the context of procurement including collusion and bid-rigging.They also share real life case studies outlining the keys to identifying and combating collusive fraud and explain how the PCSF works across government entities to combat collusive fraud.Additional links:PCSF Complaint Online Form: https://www.justice.gov/atr/webform/pcsf-citizen-complaintAntitrust Division Evaluation of Corporate Compliance Programs in Criminal Antitrust Investigations: https://www.justice.gov/atr/media/1376686/dl?inlinePCSF contact: [email protected] more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoicevSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Nelly Wilson, Google’s global head of AI Services for Weather and Climate joins Off the Shelf for a fascinating discussion on Artificial Intelligence (AI) and how to implement it. Wilson discusses the impact of AI as the biggest technology shift since the creation of theinternet.She explains how AI will transform business operations and how it can be applied to all aspects of a business, including production, analysis, HR, accounting, sales, and engineering. AI will drive workforce enhancements and operational efficiencies and Wilson highlights the keymanagement practices and considerations that drive effective AI implementations. She discusses how to implement AI successfully at scale, and shares key insights regarding data integrity and portability, interoperability, and security. Finally, Wilson shares real life use case examples of AI implementation and highlights the path to successful AI implementation. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Alan Thomas, founder of Alpha Tango Strategies, and BillGormley, president of the Gormley Group, join host Roger Waldron on this week's Off the Shelf for an engrossing discussion of the evolving federal procurement market. The discussion highlights the consolidation of procurement functions at the General Services Administration (GSA) pursuant to the president’s executive order. Thomas and Gormley, both former senior executives at GSA, share their insights on the role of GSA, the management opportunities, and considerations of consolidating federalprocurement for common products and services with GSA’s Federal AcquisitionServices (FAS). They also provide historical context to GSA’s role in federal procurement and how the consolidation will reshape the federal market. As part of that discussion, Thomas and Gormley share their thoughts regarding consolidation opportunities and implementation strategies for GSA and FAS. Other topics covered include right-sizing GSA’s Multiple Award Schedule program, the impending rewrite of the Federal Acquisition Regulation, and thestate of the IT GWACs. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Christine Harada, former senior advisor in the Office of Federal Procurement Policy during the Biden administration, joins Aileen Black on this week's Leaders and Legends.Harada is currently the senior advisor of Project Redword at Advanced Energy United and is a dynamic executive leader with over 25 years of experience bridging the public and private sector.That experience coupled with her educational background in aeronautics,astronautics, and business from MIT, Stanford, and Wharton, positions her as a versatile leader.On today's program, Harada will discuss the challenges of leadership during today's changing times. She offers sage advice on approaches to keep teams focused on the mission. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

This week on Off the Shelf, Ken Dodds, executive vice president, and general counsel for the Coalition for Common Sense in Government Procurement, shares his thoughts on opportunities for acquisition reform.Dodds discusses the opportunities to streamline GSA’s Multiple Award Schedule (MAS), including potential reform of the underlying statutory authority to focus on best value results for customer agencies.He also highlights the opportunity to put commercial back in commercial contracting by eliminating over 100 clauses from commercial item contracting.Finally Dodds talks about small business contracting opportunities and the roadmap for reform.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

This week on Off the Shelf, Moshe Schwartz, president of Etherton and Associates, provides a briefing on select provisions in the FY 2025 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) and the broad national security landscape driving defense acquisition policy. Schwartz outlines the traditional defense challenges, new challenges, and the budget constraints shaping overall defense policy. Additionally, Schwartz highlights key provisions from the FY 2025 NDAA that focus on supply chainrisks, industrial base, and the defense contracting process. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

This week on Off the Shelf, Jason Workmaster, member and Government Contracts Practice lead at Miller & Chevalier, provides a wide-ranging update on key policy developments and legal trends in government contracts. Workmaster discusses the impact of the administration’s EEO/DEI Executive Order (EO) and what government contractors need to know, including how compliance programs will need to adjust. He notes that the EO guidance includes a new certification requirement that will raise potential Civil False Claims Act liability for government contractors. Workmaster also talks about the new proposed organizational conflict of interest FAR rule, and he looks into his crystal ball and highlights the possibility that the new Congress may repeal some final rules issued by the Biden Administration pursuant to the Congressional Review Act. It will be a question of timing and Congressional workload as to whether some final rulesare repealed. Finally, Jason briefs the Federal Circuit’s ACLR decision regarding the adequacy of commercial record-keeping practices in the context of a claim. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Eric Crusius, partner at Holland & Knight, joins Off the Shelffor a cybersecurity update as well as providing his procurement expectations for the Trump Administration. Crusius discusses the likelihood of CMMC remaining intact and moving forward with implementation across DoD. He also provides his initial comments/analysis on the recentlyproposed Controlled Unclassified Information (CUI) rule, highlighting keyconsiderations for contractors. Turning to what to expect from the Trump Administration, Crusius shares his thoughts on Administration priorities and how they may impact/influence procurement operations. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

This week on Off the Shelf Alex Canizares, partner at Perkins Coie, shares his thoughts regarding False Claims Act landscape for 2025, including the anticipated priorities of the Department of Justice in 2025. Canizares also discusses the recent status of the legal challenge to theconstitutionality of the FCA’s qui tam provisions. He also addresses recent cybersecurity policy developments, including CMMC and CUI. Finally, Alex shares his thoughts and insights regarding the major governmentcontract policy trends and case law developments. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Bill Gormley, president of the Gormley Group, joins Off theShelf for a discussion of some the key procurement trends of 2024 and what toexpect in 2025. Gormley gives his thoughts on the key trends shaping interagency contractingwith a focus on GSA’s Federal Acquisition Service (FAS). Among other topics, Gormley assesses the performance of the Federal Supply Schedules (FSS) in 2024 and the prospects for 2025. In his assessment, Gormley outlineshow the FAS systems, organizational structure, and contracting workforce impactcustomer agencies and contractors in the FSS marketplace. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

This week Dr. Evan Loh, Paratek CEO, returns to Off theShelf to share the latest in the biopharmaceutical company’s partnership withthe Biomedical Advanced Research and Development Authority’s (BARDA’s) Project BioShield. Paratek’s antibiotic, NUZYRA (omadacycline) has beendesignated “an essential” medicine by the FDA, and Loh provides an updateon the progress made in onshoring of manufacturing of NUZYRA, from theproduction of API through finished drug product for both IV and oralformulations. Loh shares the journey to domestic manufacturing, highlighting the critical role Paratek’s public-private partnership with BARDA played in developing manufacturing capability.Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) along with biological threat actors are continuing and growing threat and Loh discusses the current environment and the key policy considerations incombatting these and other healthcare threats. Finally, Loh talks about the potential that the results from the successful development of treatments through public-partnerships have the potential to be leveraged to support/protectthe warfighter. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

This week Alan Thomas, founder of Alpha Tango Strategies,joins Off the Shelf for a look back at 2024 and a look forward at what’s nextfor 2025. Thomas provides his thoughts on some of the key trends from 2024and what to look for in 2025. Among the trends he identifies for 2025 are the return of shared services, the continuous yet cautious growth in AI across government, the challenging IT GWAC landscape, small business policy and programs, and the potential impact of changes at the Office of Management andBudget. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Karla Smith Jackson, senior procurement executive, deputy chief acquisition officer, and assistant administrator for the Office of Procurement at the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA), joins Off the Shelf for an engaging discussion focusing on federal procurement policy and operations.Jackson outlines her management priorities for NASA procurement while also sharing how her experiences over a 30-year career have shaped her approach to acquisition policy development. She also highlights the “care and feeding” of the acquisition workforce, outlining her philosophy and approach to strengthening the professional development across the NASA procurement workforce. Finally, Jackson gives her thoughts on the keys to effective leadership. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

This week Michael Gruden, counsel at Crowell & Moring, joins Off the Shelf, for a wide-ranging discussion focusing on cybersecurity and the CMMC journey. Gruden provides a cyber retrospective, outlining the evolution of government cybersecurity requirements to the present-day implementation of CMMC. A former contracting officer and Pentagon Branch Chief, Gruden shares his perspectives and insights on the key contracting considerations surrounding cybersecurity compliance. He also discusses the notable changes in the CMMC program outlined in the final rule along with the key features of the proposed DFARS rule that would implement CMMC in applicable defense contracts. Finally, Gruden discusses the legal risks associated with CMMC and then provides some compliance best practices for addressing those risks. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Luke Levasseur and Evan Williams, counsel at Mayer Brown, join Off the Shelf for an in depth discussion of the bid protest process. Levasseur and Williams outline the underlying authority and rationale for bid process and the role the process plays in the procurement process. They walk through the procedural steps of a GAO bid protest, sharing the key litigation timelines, standards of review, document production requirements, and the administrative procedures for reviewing and commenting on the agency record. In addition, Levasseur and Williams provide their insights on the “dos and don’ts” of the litigation process, including common mistakes protesters make when challenging an agency award decision. They also cover the Court of Claims bid protest process, highlight the procedural, jurisdictional, and precedential differences between the Court and GAO.Finally, Levasseur and Williams share the strategic considerations for a protester when choosing whether to go to GAO or the Court, including the relative success numbers. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

This week on Off the Shelf, Alan Thomas, founder of Alpha Tango Strategies, examines the state of interagency contracting and the role of Multiple Award Indefinite Delivery Indefinite Quantity (MAIDIQ) contracts. Thomas shares his thoughts and observations on the increasingly duplicative structure of the IT GWACs and OASIS+. With potentially hundreds, if not thousands of contractors, all competing for the same or similar requirements across each of the major IT GWACs, many in the procurement community are increasingly concerned regarding the impact on customer agencies and the industrial base. Thomas outlines some of the key considerations/impacts on customer agencies, small businesses, and the commercial IT industrial base. He also discusses the future of GSA’s e-commerce contract vehicle and the potential opportunities for GSA, customer agencies and contractors. Finally, Thomas addresses the ongoing systems modernization efforts at FAS and what it could mean schedule contractors and customer agencies. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

This week on Off the Shelf, Ken Dodds, executive vice president and general counsel at the Coalition for Government Procurement provides a small business policy and regulatory update.Dodds tackles the SBA’s August 2024 proposed rule, which addresses multiple small business contracting programs, including mentor protégé joint ventures, the HUBZone program, and the 8(a) program. He also provides analysis of recent administrative and court decisions impacting the mentor protégé program.Continuing the discussion, Dodds shares the latest on how the government is doing regarding small business contracting, including recent changes to certain socio-economic goals. Finally, he discusses the workings of the non-manufacturer rule and offers his initial thoughts on the potential application of the rule of two to MAIDIQ contacts. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Jeff Koses, senior procurement executive at the General Services Administration (GSA) joins Off the Shelf for a focused discussion on GSA’s current procurement policy priorities.Koses talks about the implementation and expansion of Transactional Data Reporting (TDR) across the Federal Supply Schedules (FSS) program. He highlights the positive impact on small businesses, customer agencies, and GSA through the management, evaluation, and use of the data to enhance competition, value, and security.Koses also discusses GSA’s efforts in supporting the acquisition workforce both within GSA and across government.Finallly Koses shares his thoughts on the potential role of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in federal procurement. He discusses the potential uses of AI in procurement operations and the key considerations in the procurement of AI. The opportunities and challenges of AI will be the focus of a new GSA advisory committee on AI.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Federal News Network Executive Editor Jason Miller joins host Roger Waldron on this week's Off the Shelf for “Procurement Potpourri,” a wide-ranging discussion of key procurement policy and program developments across the federal market.They tackle the state of interagency contracting focusing on the status of the four major interagency procurements: OASIS+, CIO-SP4, NASA SEWP, and Alliant 3. The discussion highlighted the role of the Office of Federal Procurement Policy has played in establishing and overseeing the IT GWACs and whether enough is currently being done. Miller also shares his thoughts on the ever-growing cybersecurity regulatory regime, including CMMC, and the need for cyber harmonization. Finally Miller talks about a new SBA report on the mentor-protégé program. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Tony Celeste, Head of Ingram Micro Public Sector LLC and Promark Technology Inc., joins Off the Shelf for a wide-ranging discussion of significant trends shaping the federal IT market. Celeste offers his thoughts on digital transformation and best practices agencies and contractors can leverage towards IT modernization. He also addresses the role of AI and virtual reality in supporting federal IT mission requirements, including how agencies can effectively leverage these rapidly evolving capabilities in support of mission requirements. Celeste also shares his observations on the diverge between government unique requirements and the commercial market and what it means for competition, pricing, and innovation. Finally, Celeste discusses opportunities for small business and the critical role they play in the federal market. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

This week Al Montoya, the Veterans Health Administration’s (VHA’s) acting under secretary for Health for Support, and Spencer Roberts, executive director for Logistics at VHA, join Off the Shelf for a briefing highlighting the VHA’s key strategic priorities.Montoya and Roberts outline VHA’s strategic efforts in bringing more veterans to the VA and ensuring those veterans receive best in class benefits, care, and support programs.Montoya shares how The Sergeant First Class Heath Robinson Promise to Address Comprehensive Toxics (PACT) Act has increased veteran enrollment by expanding eligibility for VA healthcare for veterans with toxic exposures and veterans of the Vietnam era, Gulf War era, and Post 9/11 erRoga.Roberts discusses VHA’s key procurement and logistics developments, including the new MSPV contract vehicle, the focus on supply chain resiliency, and the VHA’s recent logistics conference.Montoya also highlights the growing strategic partnership with the Defense Healthcare Agency (DHA) whereby VHA and DHA are sharing resources in markets across the country to deliver care to veterans.Finally, both guests share how, as veterans themselves and customers of the VHA, their personal experiences have helped inform their leadership at the VHA.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Joy Sturm, partner at Hogan Lovells, joins Off the Shelf for a briefing on the proposed BIOSECURE Act that would reshape biotechnology supply chains serving the federal government.The proposed legislation would prohibit the federal government from contracting with certain Chinese “companies of concern.” The prohibition would cover contracts, grants, and subcontractors.Sturm provides context on the goals for the legislation and outlines the key provisions and how they would impact federal contracts, agencies, and contractors. She addresses the proposed legislation’s key definitions, contracting restrictions, scope of coverage, and implementation timelines. Importantly, Sturm also addresses how companies should prepare for the BIOSCURE Act requirements.The discussion concludes with thoughts on the prospects for the proposed BIOSECURE Act over the reminder of the Congressional year.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Steve Schooner, Jeffery & Martha Kohn associate dean for Academic Affairs and Nash & Cibinic professor of Government Procurement Law at The George Washington University Law School, joines Off the Shelf for a wide-ranging discussion focusing on green acquisition and the role of sustainability policy in the federal procurement market.Schooner recently received the Coalition for Government Procurement’s Sustainability – Green Excellence Award for his thought leadership on the nexus between federal procurement and sustainability. He outlines key initiatives and policy developments advancing green acquisition in the federal market. He also compares federal green procurement with efforts at the state level and internationally.Finally Schooner discusses his most recent book recommendation, Craig Whitlock’s Fat Leonard: How One Man Bribed, Bilked and Seduced the U.S. Navy. The book tells the remarkable story of a wide-ranging procurement scandal. It is a cautionary tale of susceptibility, lack of accountability, and individual and organization ethical lapses.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

This week on Off the Shelf, Jason Workmaster, Member at Miller & Chevalier, provides an update on key legal developments in federal procurement.Leading off the discussion is a briefing on the Federal Circuit’s Percipient.AI decision potentially lowering the jurisdictional bar for task order protests. Workmaster outlines the facts of the case, the legal analysis and the implications for bid protests generally and task orders protests more specifically.He also gives his thoughts on the recent Advanced Notice of Proposed Rulemaking (ANPR) regarding the semiconductor supply chain. The ANPR is the first step toward regulatory implementation of Section 5948 of the 2023 NDAA (the so-called “889 ban on certain microchips”).Finally Workmaster talks about other developments in cyber, including NIST 800-171, Revision 3.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.