Contracting Conversations

In this episode of Contracting Conversations, cybersecurity expert Kelley Kiernan demystifies the Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification (CMMC) 2.0 and what it means for today’s contracting teams. She breaks down core cybersecurity concepts (confidentiality, integrity, and availability), explains the difference between Federal Contract Information (FCI) and Controlled Unclassified Information (CUI), and discusses why CUI marking, dissemination controls, and aggregation matter. Kelley walks through how CMMC levels are tied to the data a contract provides or generates, how requirements appear in solicitations, and where to find official training and practical resources—including courses, FAQs, implementation guidance, and ongoing WarU Cyber Solutions webinars. A clear, action-oriented primer to help you get a handle on CMMC and protect the defense supply chain.Available on DAU Media, Apple Podcasts, and YouTube. If you enjoy our content, please hit the like button to support us!  If you are watching this video on DAU Media, but rather watch on YouTube, go to https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCbF8yqm-r_M5czw5teb0PsA Apple Podcast:  https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/contracting-conversations/id1621567225DoD CUI Program: https://www.dodcui.mil/WARU Cyber Solutions website: https://www.dau.edu/cybersecurity/cyber-solutionsWarU CMMC for Practitioners course: https://www.dau.edu/courses/cyb-1020CMMC Implementation FAQs: https://dowcio.war.gov/Portals/0/Documents/CMMC/CMMC-FAQsv4.pdfPart 32 CMMC Program Rule: https://www.federalregister.gov/documents/2024/10/15/2024-22905/cybersecurity-maturity-model-certifi...Part 48 DFARS requirement: https://www.federalregister.gov/documents/2025/09/10/2025-17359/defense-federal-acquisition-regulati...

In this episode of DAU Contracting Conversations, Mark Jenkins discusses the On-the-Job Training (OJT) Tool for Contract Specialists. He provides a comprehensive overview of the tool, demonstrating how to access it via the DAU website and explaining its functionalities. The OJT tool is designed to help new contracting professionals track their progress and proficiency in various job tasks, ensuring they meet the Department of Defense's professional contracting competencies. Mark also highlights the importance of collaboration between supervisors and employees in using the tool to enhance on-the-job training and development. Tune in to learn more about how the OJT tool can support your contracting career.OJT Tool page:  https://www.dau.edu/tools/job-training-tool-contract-specialistsAvailable on DAU Media, Apple Podcasts, and YouTube. If you enjoy our content, please hit the like button to support us!  If you are watching this video on DAU Media, but rather watch on YouTube, go to https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCbF8yqm-r_M5czw5teb0PsA Apple Podcast:  https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/contracting-conversations/id1621567225

In this episode of DAU Contracting Conversations, Mark Jenkins discusses best practices for sole source acquisitions. He shares insights on the development and implementation of a new interactive tool designed to help DoD contracting professionals and acquisition teams apply proven pricing strategies and stay compliant. The conversation covers the tool's features, including the acquisition type selector and real-life scenarios, and how it can streamline the sole source contracting process. Tune in to learn about the latest guidance from the Office of the Under Secretary of Defense for Acquisition & Sustainment and practical tips for navigating sole source contracts.Sole Source Best Practices/Lesson Learned:  https://www.dau.edu/tools/sole-source-best-practices/lessons-learnedAvailable on DAU Media, Apple Podcasts, and YouTube. If you enjoy our content, please hit the like button to support us!  If you are watching this video on DAU Media, but rather watch on YouTube, go to https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCbF8yqm-r_M5czw5teb0PsA Apple Podcast:  https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/contracting-conversations/id1621567225

This Contracting Conversations episode features a conversation with Kevin Linden, the DAU Center Director for Contracting and Small Business, discussing DAU Contracting Credentials. Kevin explains the purpose and benefits of these credentials, how they are developed and maintained, and the process for earning and renewing them. He also provides insights on how to find and apply for these credentials on the DAU.edu website. This episode is a valuable resource for anyone in the acquisition workforce looking to enhance their skills and career prospects. DAU: https://www.dau.edu/DAU iCatalog:  https://icatalog.dau.edu/icatalog_home.aspxIf you are watching this video on DAU Media, but would rather watch on YouTube, go to:   https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCbF8yqm-r_M5czw5teb0PsAApple Podcast:  https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/contracting-conversations/id1621567225

Julie Knechtel, Professor of Program Management, and Katie Keller, Professor of Contract Management, join Contracting Conversations to talk about the “PM & KO Communication Tool” they created. This tool provides questions to help team members quickly get up to speed with any program or portfolio. It includes questions to kick off conversations between requirements owners, program managers, and contracting officers, and ensures no important areas are missed. Emphasizes the three C’s of establishing healthy work relationships: communication, collaboration and commitment. The tool offers tips, tools, and training courses to help users communicate and collaborate more effectively, building stronger relationships. It also includes suggested training for personal and team development covers essential workplace skills such as self-awareness, social skills, time management, teamwork, communication, giving and receiving feedback, effective listening, and conflict management. https://www.dau.edu/tools/dau-program-manager-and-contracting-officer-communication Available on DAU Media, Apple Podcasts, and YouTube. If you enjoy our content, please hit the like button to support us!  If you are watching this video on DAU Media, but rather watch on YouTube, go to https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCbF8yqm-r_M5czw5teb0PsA Apple Podcast:  https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/contracting-conversations/id1621567225 

This podcast episode discusses the Revolutionary FAR Overhaul (RFO), an initiative to streamline and simplify federal acquisition regulations, aiming to create a more efficient procurement system. It provides guidance on accessing resources and staying updated on the overhaul process. Information is given about the following areas: ·        RFO background and purpose ·        Key resource: acquisition.gov ·        Practitioner Albums ·        Feedback submission ·        DAU resources ·        Training and events https://www.acquisition.gov https://www.dau.edu https://www.dau.edu/revolutionary-far-overhaul https://www.dau.edu/eventsIf you are watching this video on DAU Media, but rather watch on YouTube, go to https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCbF8yqm-r_M5czw5teb0PsA Apple Podcast:  https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/contracting-conversations/id1621567225

Ben Walker, a contract price cost analyst at Robbins Air Force Base, Georgia joins this episode of Contracting Conversations. Ben shares his expertise on the ProPricer Automation Tool (PPAT), an Excel add-in he created that automates and standardizes the cost modeling process. Learn how PPAT can help build multi-position cost models in Excel, making it easier to manage PPAT proposal files submitted by contractors. Whether you're a contracting officer, contract specialist, or part of a technical evaluation team, this episode offers valuable insights into how PPAT can streamline your work and enhance accuracy. ProPricer Automation Tool (PPAT) | www.dau.eduAvailable on DAU Media, Apple Podcasts, and YouTube. If you enjoy our content, please hit the like button to support us!  If you are watching this video on DAU Media, but rather watch on YouTube, go to https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCbF8yqm-r_M5czw5teb0PsA Apple Podcast:  https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/contracting-conversations/id1621567225  

In this Contracting Conversations episode, Christina Jalbert, DAU's Learning Asset Manager for CON 7130, "Introduction to Profit or Fee Analysis," and CON 7170V, "Analyzing Profit or Fee." She discusses the importance of understanding profit or fee analysis in acquisition roles, emphasizing the subjective nature of these determinations and the need for professionals to grasp the DFARS criteria. Christina explains the structure and objectives of both courses, highlighting the interactive learning experiences and the significance of incorporating industry perspectives. Tune in to learn how these courses can benefit acquisition professionals and enhance their understanding of profit or fee analysis. Available on DAU Media, Apple Podcasts, and YouTube. If you enjoy our content, please hit the like button to support us!  If you are watching this video on DAU Media, but rather watch on YouTube, go to https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCbF8yqm-r_M5czw5teb0PsA Apple Podcast:  https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/contracting-conversations/id1621567225

In this episode of Contracting Conversations, Scott Williams and Jim Valley celebrate the third anniversary of their podcast. They reflect on their journey, discuss the evolution of their content, and share memorable moments, including live interviews at the Nexus conference. They announce their retirement and introduce the new host. The new host shares the vision for the podcast's future, emphasizing flexibility and addressing upcoming changes in contracting. The episode concludes with a preview of the new podcast logo and a commitment to continue delivering valuable content. Available on DAU Media, Apple Podcasts, and YouTube. If you enjoy our content, please hit the like button to support us! If you are watching this video on DAU Media, but rather watch on YouTube, go to https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCbF8yqm-r_M5czw5teb0PsAApple Podcast:  https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/contracting-conversations/id1621567225

Welcome to Contracting Conversations! Join hosts Scott Williams and Jim Valley as they dive into the latest in contracting. This episode features Professor Scott Gilbreth from DAU Midwest Contracting Faculty, discussing the FY 25 NDAA. Professor Gilbreth shares insights on Section 802 concerning new limitations for cost contracts and the broader message from Congress. He also covers Section 819, which addresses interface standards for modular open systems (MOSA) to improve compatibility, cut costs, and encourage competition among contractors. Tune in for an in-depth analysis of Sections 802 and 819 and their implications for defense contracting. Available on DAU Media, Apple Podcasts, and YouTube. If you enjoy our content, please hit the like button to support us!2025 NDAA Highlights Webinar - https://www.dau.edu/events/fy25-national-defense-authorization-act-ndaa-acquisition-highlights If you are watching this video on DAU Media, but rather watch on YouTube, go to https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCbF8yqm-r_M5czw5teb0PsAApple Podcast:  https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/contracting-conversations/id1621567225