WALLA WALLA, Wash. – The Walla Walla District hosted more than 100 business owners here for the Corps’ “Industry Day” on March 25.
The event was open to those interested in learning about tools needed to do business with the Corps, upcoming contract opportunities, competing for contracts, or showcasing capabilities to Corps personnel.
As a small business owner, Jennifer Aylor, understands the value of a government contract, not only for the increase in business but also for the increased opportunities doing business with the Corps provides.
“Industry Day is an opportunity for me as a small business owner to build relationships, fine tune our contract proposal process, and follow-up on past contract bids” explained Aylor, CEO of Eldred & Associates.
District personnel presented informational briefings, discussed upcoming contracting opportunities and provided companies with staff interfaces during a roundtable discussion.
Covered topics included how to respond to a sources sought and solicitations notices, how to register in the online contractor management system, and where and how to find Corps contracting opportunities.
"The Walla Walla District is an economic driver in this region and actively seeks contractors to support our efforts,” said Kay Baltz, Small Business Programs Manager for the Walla Walla District. “I am excited with the interest industry showed in the Walla Walla District”
The day-long programs ran from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
The Walla Walla District awards contracts for construction projects, Architect-Engineering studies, and supplies and services needed to operate their facilities. These contracting opportunities total $90 to $110 million annually.
The Walla Walla District hosted a previous “Industry Day” in Boise, Idaho, on March 20.
Future Industry Days are planned for October 2014 where the main training topic will be “What happens to your proposal after you turn it in”. The Walla Walla District’s Contracting Facebook page (www.facebook/com/wallawallacontracting) will keep prospective attendees updated on these future events.
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