Overview

This course equips entry-level program and project managers to navigate federal contracting end to end, starting with the Federal Acquisition System’s purpose, structure, and key roles. It introduces the Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR) and related policies to show how contracting supports fairness, efficiency, and mission outcomes, and how project managers collaborate with Contracting Officers and specialists.

Instruction centers on the following three phases of the acquisition lifecycle: Acquisition Planning (strategy, market research, requirements, and planning documents), Contract Formation (solicitation, evaluation, source selection, IGCEs, and contract types), and Contract Performance & Administration (monitoring performance with the COR, managing changes, and closeout). Students are prepared to work effectively with acquisition personnel and meet the FAC-P/PM Entry-Level contracting competency.

Syllabus

Module 1: Federal Acquisition Overview

Describe the guiding principles of the Federal Acquisition System and the FAR.
Identify the roles and responsibilities of Contracting Officers, CORs, and Program Managers.
Explain how the acquisition lifecycle supports agency mission execution.
Recognize the project manager’s responsibility for acquisition oversight.

Module 2: Acquisition Planning

Conduct market research to inform acquisition strategy decisions.
Determine appropriate contract types based on risk, complexity, and performance requirements.
Draft elements of a Statement of Work (SOW) or Performance Work Statement (PWS).
Prepare pre-solicitation documentation aligned with project objectives and funding.

Module 3: Contract Formation

Outline the solicitation and evaluation process leading to contract award.
Identify key solicitation sections and how technical evaluation criteria are developed.
Describe the program manager’s role in source selection and proposal review.
Explain how pricing, past performance, and risk affect award decisions.

Module 4: Contract Performance and Administration

Monitor contractor performance against cost, schedule, and quality targets.
Coordinate with the COR and KO to address modifications, disputes, or delays.
Apply proper procedures for managing change orders or scope adjustments.
Describe the documentation and reporting required during contract execution.

Module 5: Putting It All Together

Develop an integrated acquisition plan addressing planning, formation, and administration.
Apply best practices for communication and collaboration with acquisition stakeholders.
Evaluate a case study to identify risks and improvement opportunities in contract execution.
Summarize lessons learned and how they apply to the participant’s work environment.