Contracting Conversations

By Defense Acquisition University

Contracting Conversations

Contracting Conversations is the place to go for up-to-date information on the contracting curriculum at DAU as well as subject matter expertise on contracting topics/events... more

· Education

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FAQs about Contracting Conversations:

How many episodes does Contracting Conversations have?

The podcast currently has 138 episodes available.

Contracting Conversations episodes:

August 11, 2025 Contracting Credentials- 2025 Update
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.aspx
If you are watching this video on DAU Media, but would 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
...more
17min
July 07, 2025 Revolutionary FAR Overhaul
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/events

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

...more
10min
June 12, 2025 ProPricer Automation Tool
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.edu
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

...more
9min
May 20, 2025 CON 7130, Introduction to Profit or Fee Analysis, and CON 7170V, Analyzing Profit or Fee
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
...more
7min
April 16, 2025 3rd Anniversary-Passing the Torch
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_M5czw5teb0PsA
Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/contracting-conversations/id1621567225
...more
18min
March 18, 2025 2025 NDAA Insights: Sections 802 and 819
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_M5czw5teb0PsA
Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/contracting-conversations/id1621567225
...more
15min
January 27, 2025 Improving Work Statements PWS SOW SOO
Welcome to Contracting Conversations! Join hosts Jim Valley and Scott Williams as they chat with David Dotson, a Professor of Contract Management at DAU in the Mid-Atlantic region. David, who manages the COR 222 class and moderates the COR Community of Practice and DAU’s weekly COR Office Hours, shares insights on improving statements of work. Discover four key steps to enhance any work statement, making them more efficient and effective. Tune in for practical tips and expert advice on contract management.

CLC 222 Contracting Officers Representative (COR) Online Training (On-line 32 CLPs): https://icatalog.dau.edu/onlinecatalog/courses.aspx?crs_id=1731
COR 222 Contracting Officer’s Representative Course (Virtual or in-person 32 CLPs via DAU's Mission Assistance (see link below)):  https://icatalog.dau.edu/onlinecatalog/courses.aspx?crs_id=1584
WSC 027 Virtual Augmentation Workshop for the Contracting Officer (augments CLC 222/COR222 - 10 CLPs)P: https://icatalog.dau.edu/onlinecatalog/courses.aspx?crs_id=12359
CLC 106 - Contracting Officer's Representative with a Mission Focus (On-line 3 CLPs):  https://icatalog.dau.edu/onlinecatalog/courses.aspx?crs_id=240
DAU Mission Assistance:  https://www.dau.edu/mission-assistance
Back to Basics: https://www.dau.edu/back-to-basics; BtB Contracting: https://www.dau.edu/functional-areas/contracting
Contracting Officer Representative Community of Practice:  https://www.dau.edu/cop/cor
Contracting Community of Practice: https://www.dau.edu/cop/contracting
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
...more
10min
January 13, 2025 The Golden Rules of COR
In this episode of Contracting Conversations, hosts Jim Valley and Scott Williams sit down with David Dotson, a professor of contract management at DAU in the Mid-Atlantic region. David, who manages the COR 222 course and moderates the COR Community of Practice and weekly COR Office Hours, shares his insights on the three golden rules of being a Contracting Officer Representative (COR). The discussion delves into the complexities and responsibilities of CORs, emphasizing the importance of understanding the contract, the exclusive authority of the contracting officer to modify contracts, and the critical distinction that CORs are not contracting officers. This episode provides valuable guidance for CORs navigating their roles and highlights the foundational principles that ensure effective contract management. Tune in to gain a deeper understanding of the essential rules that govern the COR’s duties and responsibilities.
CLC 222 Contracting Officers Representative (COR) Online Training (On-line 32 CLPs): https://icatalog.dau.edu/onlinecatalog/courses.aspx?crs_id=1731
COR 222 Contracting Officer’s Representative Course (Virtual or in-person 32 CLPs via DAU's Mission Assistance (see link below)):  https://icatalog.dau.edu/onlinecatalog/courses.aspx?crs_id=1584
WSC 027 Virtual Augmentation Workshop for the Contracting Officer (augments CLC 222/COR222 - 10 CLPs)P: https://icatalog.dau.edu/onlinecatalog/courses.aspx?crs_id=12359
CLC 106 - Contracting Officer's Representative with a Mission Focus (On-line 3 CLPs):  https://icatalog.dau.edu/onlinecatalog/courses.aspx?crs_id=240
DAU Mission Assistance:  https://www.dau.edu/mission-assistance
Back to Basics: https://www.dau.edu/back-to-basics; BtB Contracting: https://www.dau.edu/functional-areas/contracting
Contracting Officer Representative Community of Practice:  https://www.dau.edu/cop/cor
Contracting Community of Practice: https://www.dau.edu/cop/contracting
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
...more
10min
December 19, 2024 COR Responsibilities - Combating Trafficking In Persons (CTIP)
In this episode of Contracting Conversations, hosts Scott Williams and Jim Valley are joined by Kevin White, a professor of contract management at DAU. Kevin shares his insights on the Combating Trafficking in Persons (CTIP) program, drawing from his extensive experience as an Air Force contracting officer and DAU instructor. He discusses the importance of CTIP in the acquisition field, the role of Contracting Officer Representatives (CORs), and the critical need for awareness and action against modern-day slavery. Tune in to learn more about how CORs can identify and combat trafficking in persons, and the tools available to support these efforts.
Don’t forget to subscribe to our channel on DAU Media, Apple Podcasts, and YouTube, and hit the like button if you enjoy our content!
CTIP Website: https://ctip.defense.gov/
CTIP Email: [email protected]
Subscribe to our YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCbF8yqm-r_M5czw5teb0PsA
Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/contracting-conversations/id1621567225
...more
18min
December 17, 2024 Cybersecurity for Contracting - Part 3
In this episode of Contracting Conversations, hosts Scott Williams and Jim Valley are joined by Kelley Kiernan, a cybersecurity expert from DAU, for the third segment of their podcast series. They discuss the importance of cybersecurity in protecting DoD data, the FAR and DFARS clauses, and the tools available to contracting teams. Kelley provides a recap of the previous episodes and outlines a plan for 2025, emphasizing the need for cybersecurity controls and the role of contracting officers in verifying these controls. The episode also covers the upcoming CMMC program and its impact on DoD contracts, as well as the importance of supply chain risk management. Tune in to learn more about the latest developments in cybersecurity for contracting teams.
Defense Contract Management Agency, Defense Industrial Base Cybersecurity Assessment Center DCMA DIBCAC https://www.dcma.mil/DIBCAC/ An email to ask CMMC questions (Scroll to CONTACT INFORMATION) https://www.dcma.mil/DIBCAC/ DoD’s CMMC Program https://dodcio.defense.gov/CMMC/
DFARS 252.204-7012 “Safeguarding Covered Defense Information and Cyber Incident Reporting” https://www.acquisition.gov/dfars/252.204-7012-safeguarding-covered-defense-information-and-cyber-in....
Recap of the September 2022 Cyber AB Town Hall event https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/cyber-ab-town-hall-key-takeaways-introducing-caico-other-/
DoD CMMC Program Briefing on January 15 www.dau.edu/events DoD Inspector General Report on CUI Protection https://media.defense.gov/2024/Mar/11/2003410405/-1/-1/1/DODIG-2024-031_REVISED%20SECURE.PDF DOD Controlled Unclassified Information program www.dodcui.mil
DAU Cyber Solutions Supply Chain Risk Management in Contracts event recording https://www.dau.edu/events/dau-cyber-solutions-primer-supply-chain-risk-management-scrm-and-dod-cont... DAU Cyber Solutions Webinars (look on the calendar for the next event) www.dau.edu/events WSS 001 Cybersecurity and Acquisition Integration https://www.dau.edu/courses/wss-001 CLE 074 Cybersecurity Throughout DoD Acquisition https://www.dau.edu/courses/cle-074 DAU Mission Assistance www.dau.edu/mission-assistance DAU Cybersecurity Offerings www.dau.edu/cybersecurity
Subscribe to our YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCbF8yqm-r_M5czw5teb0PsA
Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/contracting-conversations/id1621567225
...more
14min

FAQs about Contracting Conversations:

How many episodes does Contracting Conversations have?

The podcast currently has 138 episodes available.