Past SECAF Events

Attention SECAF Members:
For past event presentations, login, see For Members Only tab, Past Event Presentations.
Tuesday, September 11, 2018

Executive Briefing - FY2019 Federal Budget:  What You Need To Know as a Small Business
Valo Park  McLean, VA 22101
7:30-10:00am

Join us as we hear from Bloomberg about the funding sources, acquisition trends, and major opportunities shaping the next fiscal year. After the presentation, learn what the forecast means for your small business. Kevin Brancato will be joined by procurement and small business experts to discuss:
  • How to operationalize budget data for your strategic plan 
  • The acquisition trends shaping federal spending and how to leverage them to access funding dollars
  • The resources available to small businesses at government agencies

Speakers  
 
  • Kevin Brancato, Director of Government Contracts Research at Bloomberg Government
  • Jim Ghiloni, Director, Wolf Den Associates
  • George Price, Director of the Office of Small Disadvantaged Business Utilization for the U.S. Department of State
August 30, 2018 at 12 noon EDT

Webinar:  Category Management - What does it mean for your small business?
 
Join us as we learn about Category Management.
  • What is Category Management
    • Why is GSA focused on it?
    • How does it differ from how things were managed/procured in the past?
  • What are the initiatives' strategic goals?
  • What does Category Management mean strategically/tactically for small businesses?
    • Best in class contracts and onboarding opportunities
    • Leveraging schedules
    • Overview of agency customer contracting trends and additional resources for small businesses to access funding 
Webinar Presented By: 

Geri Haworth 
Professional Services Category Management Division, Director

Ms. Geri Haworth was appointed the Professional Services Category Manager in June of 2013. In this role she manages a team of employees working in the Professional Services and Human Capital Portfolio of the Federal Acquisition Service.

Specifically, she is responsible for the oversight and management of the strategic initiatives related to category management. These initiatives focus on customer and industry engagement, the Acquisition Gateway category hallway, and improving the contract offerings that provide the services represented in the category. Ms. Haworth has more than 26 years of experience working in FAS helping federal agencies meet their mission requirements.

In previous roles, Ms. Haworth served as the Business Management Director for the FAS Management Services Center, the Deputy Director for the Regional Customer Accounts and Research Division, and the Regional Retail Services Manager overseeing the management of the Auburn and Alaska Customer Supply Centers. She began her federal career at the Social Security Administration and joined GSA in 1990 as a Management Intern.

Ms. Haworth earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in Business Administration from Eastern Washington University and is a graduate of The Management Program at the University of Washington.

SECAF Members - For the slide presentation/recorded webinar, login and click on Members Only tab (top), followed by Past Event Presentations​
Tuesday, June 12, 2018

Executive Briefing on OTAs - Other Transaction Agreements: Growth Opportunities for Small and Emerging Businesses 
Valo Park (formerly TEGNA) McLean, VA 22102
7:30 - 10:00 am
 
There has been an explosion of interest in Other Transaction Agreements (OTAs) as a method of acquisition streamlining. OTAs are agreements between the government and private sector entities that are free from the Federal Acquisition Regulations and provide unique opportunities for small businesses to participate in exciting technology development!  Hear the perspectives of an OTA government customer, small business and consortia. Join us as our panelists offer insights on OTAs – What are they?  How are they used?  How can small businesses win OTAs?  What is the outlook for OTAs?

Moderator:  Kevin Brancato, Director of Government Contracts Research at Bloomberg Government
Speakers:
  • Devin Edwards, COO Phoenix Operations Group
  • Will Graves, Chief Engineer for PM DoD Biometrics within the Program Executive Office for Intelligence, Electronic Warfare & Sensors (IEW&S)
  • Bob Tuohy, COO Advanced Technology International (ATI)
Thursday, June 7, 2018

Networking Event for Government Contractor Members Only
5:30 - 7:30 pm
Maggiano's Little Italy McLean, VA 22102

You are invited to come get to know your fellow
SECAF Government Contractor members!
  • What do they do?
  • Might there be teaming opportunities?
  • Can they help you?  Can you help them?
  • Enjoy the opportunity to network with your peers.
  • Bring your capabilities statement
ATTENTION SECAF GOV CON MEMBERS:   Do you know a Gov Con colleague who might like to join SECAF?  If so, you are welcome to invite them to attend with you.  Your guest may attend at the member rate.
 
Thursday, May 10, 2018
10th Annual Government Contractor Awards Gala

Hilton McLean  McLean, Virginia
6:00 - 9:00 pm
Attire:  Business, Festive

The Government Contractor of the Year recognizes companies that have shown a compelling and profound commitment to excellence in financial performance. The SECAF Award of Excellence highlights organizations that represent excellence within their respective communities, the government contracting industry, and towards employees.  The Government Project of the Year is given to a company that has delivered an exemplary program with significant value to the federal government.  Finally, the Small Business Mentor/Partner of the Year is awarded to a company that has shown a compelling and profound commitment to excellence through its efforts as a prime contractor by providing tangible benefits to small businesses and/or subcontractors during the previous year. Note: All applications must be submitted by a small business.

IMPORTANT NOTE:  REVENUE CATEGORIES CHANGED EFFECTIVE 2018 AWARDS.
Award winners will be selected from a group of finalists in six categories as follows:
  • SECAF Government Contractor of the Year (under $7.5 million in revenue)
  • SECAF Government Contractor of the Year ($7.5 to $15 million in revenue)
  • SECAF Government Contractor of the Year ($15 to $27.5 million in revenue)
  • SECAF Award of Excellence (under $25 million in revenue, SECAF Members Only)
  • SECAF Government Project of the Year (SECAF Members Only)
  • SECAF Small Business Mentor/Partner of the Year
For more information, contact us info@secaf.org
Tuesday, April 17, 2018
Executive Briefing:  360° Modernization at DoD - How Small Businesses can Shape our Vehicles, Systems, and Technology
Tower Club
7:30 - 10:00 am
 
Modernization efforts within the DoD are ongoing across the spectrum of equipment and technology. After years of use during our conflicts in the Middle East, Congress has approved for $700 Billion (an increase of $94B) in 2018 appropriations to sustain and modernize our aging equipment. Learn about how your small business can get involved with modernization efforts within the Department of the Army to update our vehicles, aviation assets and technology. 
 
Highlights will include:
  • Discussion of key modernization trends and initiatives for combat vehicles, aviation systems, and application migration
  • Emerging capabilities of tactical wheeled vehicles providing greater battlefield situational awareness, force protection, and freedom of maneuver
  • Future Vertical Life capabilities and developments 
  • Future Unmanned Aerial Systems 
  • Overview of Cloud Computing and migrating Army Applications
  • Enterprise System Management and preparing applications for migration
  • How small businesses can be a part of the modernization program
Speakers:  
  • Colonel Jason Craft, Director Army Aviation Programs, Assistant Secretary of the Army for Acquisitions, Logistics, and Technology (ASA(ALT))
  • Timothy Hale, Product Director, Acquisition, Logistics and Technology Enterprise Systems and Services (ALTESS)  
Tuesday, April 10, 2018

For SECAF Gov Con Members!
CXO Forum:  Keys to Building an Accounting Infrastructure that Scales with Your Growth
Presented by Cordia Partners  Vienna, VA 
7:30am -  9:00am

Having the right information at the right time will help you capture growth opportunities.  Building a sound accounting infrastructure is critical to successful and scalable growth.  This event will provide you with information surrounding:
  • The government’s perspective and rules on an acceptable accounting system
  • Accounting system options – pros and cons
  • Key accounting and financial reports for timely decision making
  • Risk management and sound internal controls
Who Should attend?   Business owners, CEOs, Presidents, COOs, CFOs, and Controllers

Speakers:  
  • Brigitta Scott, CPA - Cordia Partners, Principal
  • Traci Shepps, CPA - Cordia Partners, Partner
No cost but you MUST register in advance.
Wednesday, March 28, 2018 

For SECAF Gov Con Members!
CXO Forum: Talent Acquisition Strategies
Presented By: Helios HR Reston, VA
7:30am -  9:00am

Are you experiencing issues with attracting and/or retaining people with targeted and highly sought-after skill sets?  Come participate in a discussion of emerging pay strategies in the government contracting market. 
 
Pay trends for different factions (i.e., operations vs. client services) are shifting. To remain relevant in talent acquisition strategies, leaders find themselves with a need to respond to market compensation demands in ways they’ve never had to before.  Join us in this interactive conversation with Helios HR Compensation experts and discover innovative strategies that will help your business achieve success.

Speaker:  Cicely C. Clayton, Principal Consultant

Who should attend?  CEOs, CFOs, and CHROs
 
No cost but you MUST register in advance.  Space is limited.

Tuesday, March 13, 2018

Member Forum: Is Your Insider Threat Program Up to Speed? 
Valo Park (formerly known as TEGNA/Gannett)  McLean, VA
7:30 - 10:00am

On May 18, 2016, the Under Secretary of Defense for Intelligence issued NISPOM Change 2, which requires cleared contractors to establish and implement insider threat programs.  These programs must be consistent with Executive Order 13587 and the National Insider Threat Policy and Minimum Standards for Executive Branch Insider Threat Programs.  
 
Led by key figures in government Insider Threat policy and program offices, this panel will discuss the evolving development of insider threat programs within both government and contractor entities.  Panelists will explore the current framework of requirements, technologies, and processes being employed, as well as opportunities for small businesses to support innovations in this growing industry in the public sector.  
 
Moderator:  Rear Admiral (retired) David Simpson - Principal, Deep Water Point, FCC, DISA

Speakers:
  • Jacqueline Atiles - Department of State, Insider Threat Program Director
  • Michael Seage - Director, DoD Insider Threat Management Analysis Center (DITMAC)
  • Randy Trzeciak - currently holds a dual appointment between Heinz College and the CERT Program of the Software Engineering Institute at Carnegie Mellon University
Thursday, March 8, 2018

For SECAF Gov Con Members!
CXO Forum:  Understanding Project KPIs to Drive Financial Performance for Gov Cons
Presented By: Unanet  Sterling, VA 20166
11:30am - 1:30pm

Join us!  Emerging contractors face significant challenges when competing with each other and the largest Primes! The most successful emerging contractors rely on a set of key performance indicators (KPls) to track financial and project performance. These KPIs are utilized by various stakeholders that need real time information to ensure success and profitability. Establishing the right KPls needed to support business goals can be tricky, and in this session we will discuss best practices to establish metrics, how to avoid common mist akes, and see how a single source of truth can help your company get the actionable information needed to drive project success!

Highlights will include:
  • Best practices for establishing KPls for your organization
  • Aligning KPls to corporate goals
  • Common financial and project metrics
  • Real-time metrics for reliable decision making

Speakers:
  • Fran Craig, Unanet, Chair and CEO
  • Kim Koster, Unanet, Director of Product Marketing
Thursday, February 15, 2018

For SECAF Gov Con Members!
CXO Forum:  The Keys to Growing a Small Business in the Federal Market
Presented By: Deltek at Maggiano’s Little Italy Tysons
11:30am - 1:30pm

Growing a small business in the federal market is never easy. But, by executing in four key areas, companies can build a foundation for growth for years to come. 

Set aside a lunch hour to learn how thousands of small businesses have found success in federal contracting despite the market headwinds. Over lunch, Kevin Plexico, Deltek’s Vice President of Information Solutions, will discuss the landscape of federal small business contracting and share the four key areas successful small businesses must address in laying a solid foundation for growth.

Who Should attend?  CEOs, CFOs, CIOs, COOs

Speaker:  
  • Kevin Plexico, Deltek, Vice President, Information Solutions
Thursday, February 1, 2018

For SECAF Gov Con Members!
CXO Forum:  Selling My Company - What I Learned and What I Wish I Had Known
Presented By: The McLean Group McLean, VA
11:30am - 1:30pm

Join us for lunch with an owner who has sold her businesses to discuss:
  • How she prepared their business for the sale
  • What did she learn from the process and what she wished she had know BEFORE she started the process
  • What advice she would give to someone who is thinking about selling
Who should attend? CEOs  

Speaker:  Nicole Geller – CEO, Founder, Entrepreneur
Thursday, January 25, 2018

Networking Event for Government Contractor Members Only
Tysons International Plaza Vienna, VA
5:30 - 7:30 pm

You are invited to come get to know your fellow
SECAF Government Contractor members!
  • What do they do?
  • Might there be teaming opportunities?
  • Can they help you?  Can you help them?
  • Enjoy the opportunity to network with your peers.
  • Bring your capabilities statement.
Tuesday, January 9, 2018

Executive Briefing:  GSA – Raising the Bar for Professional Services
Tower Club Vienna, VA
7:30 - 10:30am
 
Join SECAF on January 9th as we hear directly from GSA's Professional Services Program Management team on new initiatives at GSA and how to navigate the Professional Services category as a small and emerging business. Key topics include:
  • OMB directives and the impact of Category Management on your business
  • “Best in Breed” contracts: who is using them, and how do they impact your strategic plan?
  • Updates to the schedule program to streamline the process and make it easier for contractors to get on schedule and refresh their offerings
  • The future of OASIS and potential on-ramp opportunities
Speakers:
  • Geri Haworth - Division Director Professional Services Category Management Office of Professional Services & Human Capital Categories Federal Acquisition Service U.S. General Services Administration
  • Alexandra Rouse - Professional Services Program Executive Office of Professional Services & Human Capital Categories Federal Acquisition Service U.S. General Services Administration
After the event, Government Contractor members are invited to stick around for the opportunity to provide feedback on the RFI process directly to GSA, in the first Information Exchange Forum (IEF) of the year. The IEF is a quarterly gathering of industry partners and representatives from the Professional Services Category, aimed at facilitating dialogue, sharing information, and eliciting feedback. The conversation will shape the PSC’s efforts to enhance small and emerging contractor’s positions within the Category. Attendees should have an active Professional Services Schedule (PSS) or OASIS contract.  

Speaker:   Zachary Lerner – Supplier Relationship Management Specialist, Professional Services Category
Wednesday, December 13, 2016

SECAF Holiday Party
Convene 6:00 - 8:00 pm  McLean, VA 

Please join us to celebrate a wonderful season! 

New Member Campaign!  Winner will be announced. For every new Gov Con member you recruit, you will get one raffle ticket to win a week in Hawaii!  December 11 - Deadline to be eligible for accommodations for one week in Kauai, HI The Cliffs at Princeville?  Drawing will be held Wednesday, Dec 13 at the Holiday Party - MUST BE PRESENT TO WIN!

Support our veterans!  In honor of our veterans, SECAF is supporting the Cohen Clinic at Easter Seals.  Please join us; veterans deserve our help!    Make a donation now or at the Holiday Party.  
Three (3) easy ways to donate:
  • ONLINE - Go to www.eseal.org
    • Click on DONATE
    • Under Gift Designation:  Click on “Direct my gift to”
    • Click on drop down and select Steven A. Cohen Military Family Clinic at Easterseals
  • BY MAIL:
    • Make check payable to "Easter Seals"
    • Mail to Easter Seals Serving DC|MD|VA
Attention: Development Department
            1420 Spring Street
            Silver Spring, MD 20910
  • BY PHONE OR FOR MORE INFORMATION:
                Jennifer Christiano
                Sr. Director, Development
                Ph: 301-920-9717
                Email: jchristiano@eseal.org 
Tuesday, November 7, 2017

Executive Briefing:  DHS – The Future of Procurement is Now!!!
Tower Club  Vienna, VA
7:30 - 10:00 am

Come join SECAF for an informative discussion directly from Department of Homeland Security’s leaders on the Department’s overall goals, acquisition directions and strategic sourcing considerations.  Learn how current mission priorities, speed to force, and congressional and presidential mandates, might be changing or not changing these considerations.  Listen to thought leaders Soraya Correa and Jaclyn Smyth provide their insight and intel obtained from within the DHS walls to our SECAF membership and supporters.

The discussion will include:
  • What is the current update on the Enterprise Acquisition Gateway for Leading Edge Solutions, EAGLE, the Acquisition Innovation Act and other acquisition considerations for the next several years
  • What are Procurement Innovation Lab programs?  What is Flexible Agile Support for the Homeland (FLASH) and how does provide support for future Procurement Innovation Lab programs?  
  • Will DHS consider OTA’s or Other Transaction Authorities in the future?  Science & Technology Directorate has initial feedback and have obtained speed to the organization on contracting.  Less than 2 months in some minor cases
  • Effect of political situation and back-to-back-to back natural disasters on Mission
Don't miss networking opportunities before and after the presentation.  Our speakers will be available for a brief one-on-one immediately before and/or following the event!

Speakers:
  • Soraya Correa, Department of Homeland Security (DHS), Chief Procurement Officer
  • Polly Hall, Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Procurement Innovation Lab (PIL), Strategy & Planning Lead
  • Jaclyn Smyth, Director of the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), Strategic Sourcing Program Office within the Office of the Chief Procurement Officer
Wednesday, October 25, 2017

CXO Forum: ABC's of JVs in the Federal Marketplace
Presented by Protorae Law  Vienna, VA
7:30 - 9:00am

The use of joint ventures in federal procurement has increased dramatically in the last few years.  Procurements have become increasingly complex—primarily those set aside for small businesses.  As a result, small businesses frequently must combine resources in order to be competitive.  Joint ventures also are on the rise due to the expansion of the Small Business Administration’s Mentor-Protégé Program to include not only Section 8(a) business concerns but also all other types of small business concerns.  The expansion of the Mentor-Protégé Program to include all types of small businesses has made joint venturing a very popular option because joint ventures formed by small and large businesses in the program are eligible to participate in procurements set-aside for small businesses. 
 
Topics discussed will include:
  • What is a Joint Venture?
  • Why do contractors form Joint Ventures? 
  • How do Joint Ventures help small and emerging businesses grow?
  • What are the typical issues that arise with the formation, drafting and negotiation of Joint Venture and Operating Agreements?
  • What are the advantages and disadvantages of using Joint Ventures in federal procurements?
Speakers:
  • Devon Hewitt, Partner, Protorae Law
  • Kathleen Kelley, Partner, Protorae Law

Wednesday, October 18, 2017

Networking Event for Government Contractor Members Only
Maggiano's Little Italy Tysons
5:30 - 7:30 pm

You are invited to come get to know your fellow
SECAF Government Contractor members!
  • What do they do?
  • Might there be teaming opportunities?
  • Can they help you?  Can you help them?
  • Enjoy the opportunity to network with your peers.
  • Bring your capabilities statement.
Tuesday, October 10, 2017

Member Forum: Myth-Busting Strategic Planning
The Tower Club Vienna, VA
7:30 - 10:00am

In today's market, volatility and uncertainty cloud the lens of traditional long-term strategic planning. Market shifts and opportunistic necessities can quickly render five-year plans obsolete, and companies don't have the time to launch resource-draining six-month planning campaigns. However, for small and emerging contractors, focus and discipline is still essential to building enduring enterprise value. 
 
Join us for a panel with experienced small business CXOs and GovCon strategic planning experts as we discuss how best to execute agile planning, deploy limited resources, and avoid the "Me Too" trend chasing trap. Discussion themes include:
  • Real-time situational awareness and competitive intelligence
  • A nuanced understanding of ROI tradeoffs and the virtues of uneven resource allocation
  • Strategic direction that preserves tactical flexibility
  • How to connect the strategy to operational and budget plans to make the plan actionable

Moderator:  Greg Nossaman, Managing Director, The McLean Group
Speakers:
  • Michele Bolos, CEO and Founder , Next Tier Concepts (NT Concepts)
  • Deepak Hathiramani, Founder, Vistronix
Tuesday, September 12, 2017

Executive Briefing:  FY ’18 – Is it a Boom for GovCon Small Businesses?
Tower Club  Vienna, VA 
7:30 - 10:00 am

Join SECAF, news giant Bloomberg, and GovCon consulting firm Wolf Den, to explore the upcoming issues, legislation, trends, and forecasts for government contractors!  We’ll explore issues like:
  • How will the President’s Budget affect my small business?  What agencies are gaining?
  • Contracting legislation pending and near-term impact on small businesses
  • What are the top 5 opportunities that small business SHOULD take advantage of in the coming next 2 fiscal years
  • Potential for a Continuing Resolution and Gov’t Shutdown
  • … and other topics!
 
We’ll focus on issues affecting small government businesses by asking questions like:
  • What does this mean for my small business… how can I pivot to be positioned?
  • Should I “follow the money” or is there a different direction that should be considered?
  • Is incumbency on contracts growing and should I partner with mid and large businesses?
  • Should I expect the competitive environment to change with changes in the political environment?
  • Will my GSA contract and other contract vehicles be more or less important? 
 
This event will equip you with the best information and ideas you need to make informative strategic decisions and position your company for growth in FY18/19!
 
Speakers:
  • Robert Levinson, Senior Defense Analyst at Bloomberg Government Division
  • Kevin Robbins, Co-Founder of Wolf Den Associates
Wednesday,  August 30, 2017

SECAF Member Barbeque
SECAF Board Chair Cameron Hamilton's Residence
5:30 - 7:30 pm

The SECAF Board of Directors warmly invites you to a Member Summer  Barbeque at the current Chairman’s residence. Come join us for networking in a relaxed setting as  our Board Chairman Cameron Hamilton passes the gavel to Kathy Albarado, incoming Chair.   Bring plenty of cards for connections as we launch our new program year.  
 
Attire:  Business Casual
 
Tuesday, June 13, 2017

Executive Briefing:  The State of Federal Health IT - The Landscape, Challenges and Potential Directions for Small Businesses Considering Engaging this Market
Tower Club Vienna, VA  
7:30 - 10:00 am

An informative, educational discussion on the dynamic environment of Federal Health IT and the 2017 initiatives on the minds and desks of government leaders.  The event will bring together accomplished leaders at the forefront of Health IT strategy at the VA, DHA, GSA, and CMS along with industry leaders in the Federal Health IT space. 

Moderator:  Ben Edson, Founder and CEO of VariQ

Speakers:
  • Roya Konzman – Senior Information Technology Specialist, Office of IT Schedule Programs, U.S. General Services Administration (GSA)
  • Thomas Leney - Executive Director for Small and Veteran Business Programs at the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs
  • Daniel Levenson - Digital Service Contracting Adviser and a Contracting Officer at the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS)
  • David Guillory - U.S. Defense Health Agency, CO-HIT, San Antonio as the onsite Small Business Specialist
Tuesday, June 6, 2017

Networking Event for Government Contractor Members Only
5:30 - 7:30 pm
Chef Geoff's Tysons 

You are invited to come get to know your fellow
SECAF Government Contractor members!
  • What do they do?
  • Might there be teaming opportunities?
  • Can they help you?  Can you help them?
  • Enjoy the opportunity to network with your peers.
  • Bring your capabilities statement.
Tuesday, May 23, 2017

Member Forum: Reprogramming Potential of Contracting Dollars in a Trump Administration
Tower Club Vienna, VA 4:00 - 6:30pm

President-Elect Trump ran on a platform of comprehensive Federal agency reform.   For the Trump administration to make good on its campaign pledges to radically reform the government, agencies will have to reprogram dollars from some current programs.  Reform is dependent on the ability of Federal agencies to redirect existing resources to fulfill new priorities. Govini’s newest Analytic Report - Trump’s Swamp:   The Reprogramming Potential for Agencies and Contractors in 2017 - reveals which agencies and contractors are best positioned for the disruption, and which are most at risk.  All registered participants will get a FREE copy of the report (a $5000 value).

Govini will also discuss its current Federal Scorecard.  Utilizing more than 6,000 data points, the Scorecard is a powerful market intelligence resource creating a provocative view into the Federal procurement landscape.  The Federal Scorecard highlights agency spending trends, including a contracting overview, product and service spend, contract vehicle usage and set-aside performance.  

Speaker:  Chris Taylor, CEO, Govini
 
Tuesday May 9, 2017

9th Annual Government Contractor Awards Gala
McLean Hilton, 6:00 - 9:00pm

The Small and Emerging Contractors Advisory Forum’s (SECAF) 9th Annual Government Contractor Awards
honor small and emerging government contractors and the players in the industry that rely on small business.

Congratulations to the 2017 winners - click here for a list!
Congratulations to the 2017 Finalists - click here for a list!  
 
Tuesday, April 11, 2017

Member Forum: The Continuously Emerging World of Cybersecurity – Are you compliant? 
SECAF Members Only, Tower Club, 7:30 - 10:00am
  • What is Cyber Compliance?  What is needed to be a cyber compliant superstar?  What are the ultimate considerations when trying to be cyber compliant in this hacker rich environment? 
  • What are the differences between maintaining compliance as a Prime versus a Subcontractor? 
  • What must a company consider down the road to maintain its compliance?  What if they do not?  Is there a bigger legal issue here not being considered?  What is Congress thinking?
  • Cybersecurity certifications – What are they and are they useful?  

Speakers:  
  • Kaylee Cox, Associate, Holland & Knight LLP
  • Camille Tuutti, Executive Editor, NextGov
  • David M. Wennergren,  Executive Vice President & Chief Operating Officer, Professional Services Council (PSC)

Wednesday, February 15, 2017

Webinar:  Changing Federal Acquisition Landscape Under the New Administration
Presented By:  Rob Levinson and Stan Soloway

With Congress and the Presidency under the Republican Party, what are the changes that could impact Small and Emerging Government Contractors? Come learn from GovCon Industry experts on what priorities and programs could change in Federal Contracting and how to prepare your Small Business to successfully adapt to those changes. Bob Levinson from Bloomberg will provide the media/research perspective on impending political and program changes and how they might impact Government contractors. Stan Soloway, CEO of Celero Strategies (and former CEO of the Professional Services Council and Deputy Under-Secretary of Defense) will provide the Government acquisition and GovCon industry perspective on what to expect and how to prepare your Small Business to not only survive but also succeed in a changing world.

SECAF Members - For the slide presentation and recorded webinar, login and click on Members Only tab (top), followed by Past Event Presentations
 

Thursday, January 12, 2017

Executive Briefing: The Honorable Tom Davis Provides Post-Election Insight - Wake Up - The Election is Over!
TEGNA/Gannett  McLean, VA
7:30 - 10:00 am
  •  How will the focus shift in the Executive branch policies, and the “behavior” or direction of the House and Senate?  Is continued gridlock inevitable?
  • What does the election say about the prospects for small government contractors?  Will the push for LPTA continue?
  • What funding changes are possible for Defense, National Security or Veterans programs?  Which Civilian agencies will see changes in their budgets? 
  • What are the prospects for immigration reform?
 

Thursday, December 1, 2016

SECAF Holiday Party
TEGNA/Gannett  McLean, VA
6:00 - 8:00 pm

Please join us to celebrate a wonderful season!

Tuesday, November 15, 2016

Executive Briefing: GSA’s OASIS - Answers to Your Questions and Preparing for the Future!
TEGNA/Gannett  McLean, VA 
7:30 - 10:00 am

Come learn more about OASIS including where it is and where it’s going, the ins and outs of on-ramping, partnerships and the strategic value for small and emerging businesses.

Moderator:  Curt Anderson, Director of Strategic Alliances, CSSI, Inc.
 
Speakers:
  • Satya Akula, President and Chief Executive Officer, Amyx, Inc.
  • Prashant Gaur, President, Credence Management Solutions LLC
  • Todd Richards, Program Manager for GSA OASIS
Join us for a discussion about OASIS including the overall contract, its successes, the organizations involved, the future directions of the contract, and the organizations that are considering its use of the contract in the future.  During this informative Q&A-driven session, the discussion will include the nuances, the benefits, the myths, and the overall status of the contract.  Organizations such as Air Force, Army, Navy Supply Command, and DHS are all taking advantage of this contract today and will continue to do so with many task orders already solicited and awarded!

Learn about the on-ramping considerations for OASIS and how and what YOUR company needs to consider to prepare and position itself to compete and become an effective partner on this contract with GSA.

OASIS and OASIS Small Business (SB) are multiple award, Indefinite Delivery Indefinite Quantity (IDIQ) contracts that provide flexible and innovative solutions for complex professional services. OASIS is not a GSA Schedule contract such as the Professional Services Schedule (PSS), so there is no continuously open application process.
 
Tuesday, October 25, 2016

Networking Event for Government Contractor Members
Eastern Foundry  Rosslyn, VA
5:30 - 7:30 pm

As you may know, Eastern Foundry is forging innovation in the government marketplace by serving as a central hub where small business, tech startups, professional service providers, primes and agencies convene to exchange ideas and do business. 

You are invited to come get to know your fellow SECAF Government Contractor members and be introduced to Eastern Foundry members!
  • What do they do?
  • Might there be teaming opportunities?
  • Can they help you?  Can you help them?
  • Enjoy the opportunity to network with your peers.
  • Bring your capabilities statement.
  • Encourage members of the Eastern Foundry will also be invited to attend to consider joining SECAF!
 
Thursday, October 13, 2016

Member Forum: Small Businesses Can Be Acquirers Too – How to Successfully Acquire Assets, Contracts or Another Small Business
TEGNA/Gannett McLean, VA
7:30 - 10:00 am

Join us for a panel discussion with seasoned business executives and advisors providing growth strategies for small businesses, including:
 
  • How to open up new lines of revenue and create synergies through a merger of two equal companies;
  • How minority investment can keep your business in a small set-aside program, while adding capital to expand operations;
  • Asset purchases and other alternatives available to access a new line of business; and
  • Steps that can be taken now to position your business for a future sale.

Moderator: Kathleen Kelley, Protorae Law

Speakers: Babs Doherty, President and Chief Executive Officer, Eagle Ray, Inc.
                   Kevin Robbins, Co-Founder Blue Delta Partners
                   Andrew Sherman, Partner, Seyfarth Shaw
 
October 4, 2016

Webinar:  Small Business Mentor-Protégé Program
Presented By:  Devon Hewitt, Protorae Law

On July 25, 2016, SBA issued its long-awaited final rules implementing a new Small Business Mentor-Protégé Program.  Join Devon Hewitt, Chair of SECAF’s Legislative and Regulatory Committee, in a discussion about these new rules, including: 

•        Key Aspects of new Small Business Mentor-Protégé Program
•        Changes to the Joint Venture regulations
•        Status of other agency Mentor-Protégé Programs
•        Changes to the 8(a) Program
•        Changes to the HUBZone Program
 
Devon Hewitt, a partner at Protorae Law PLLC, has over 20 years’ experience in the field of government contracts, representing small, mid-tier and large government contractors. She advises clients on a wide range of government contracting issues including  FAR compliance; small business contracting programs; intellectual property and data rights; GSA Schedule; the Service Contract Act; noncompete, nonsolicitation and nondisclosure agreements; subcontracts and teaming arrangements; joint ventures; FOIA; due diligence and novations; contract claims; codes of ethics and business conduct; mandatory and voluntary disclosures; suspension and debarment; terminations; and government audits and investigations.
 
Tuesday, September 13, 2016

Executive Briefing: FY '17 GovCon Trends, Outlook and Major IT Opportunities
McLean Hilton  7:30 - 10:00 am

Gaining certainty in uncertain political times: FY17 GovCon legislative outlook, trends and forecasts and overview of major IT procurement opportunities for small business.
 
Join SECAF and the thought leaders from leading, innovative companies in analytics and real-time information delivery for Government Contracting professionals to learn effects of changing political landscape on rules and regulations, contracting outlook and major business opportunities in the IT arena for small businesses. This event will equip you with the information and tools you need to make informative strategic decisions and position your company for growth in FY17.
 
  • How will the winners in the 2016 elections impact the business of government contractors?
  • What legislation is pending on the Hill that will affect small business, and what is the likely movement on it?
  • What are the emerging trends in contracting processes and contract vehicles?
  • What are the critical contract vehicles to consider in FY2017?

Moderator:    Joe Golden, Principal and Senior Managing Director, The McLean Group

Speakers:
  • Robert Levinson, Senior Defense Analyst at Bloomberg Government
  • Nate Nash, CEO of GovTribe
 
Tuesday, July 26, 2016

Webinar: SBA Final Rule NDAA of 2013
Presented By:  Devon Hewitt, Protorae Law

SBA has issued its long-awaited, final rules implementing the statutory changes enacted by the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) for FY 2013.

Topics to be covered include new regulations addressing:
  • Limitations on subcontracting and “similarly situated entities”
  • Affiliation rules
  • Nonmanufacturer rule
  • Joint Ventures
  • Recertification
  • Calculation of Annual Receipts

Presented by:  Devon Hewitt, Partner, Protorae Law and SECAF Board Member will provide this Legislative & Regulatory update

SECAF Members - For the slide presentation and recorded webinar, login and click on For Members Only tab, Past Event Presentations
 
Tuesday, June 14, 2016

Member Forum: Strategic Business Development
The Tower Club  Vienna, VA
7:30 - 10:00 am

What does it take to compete in today’s Federal procurement environment and what’s the best way to align your business development efforts? Most small businesses don’t have the luxury of large business development shops to search out opportunities, work capture, and write winning proposals.   Learn what are the best strategies that small and emerging businesses can deploy to compete in today’s procurement environment.

Our panel of business development experts will discuss:
  • Approaches to making informed bid/no-bid decisions
  • Strategies around organizing your business development function/team
  • Trends in business development functions
  • Aligning business development with your business goals and capabilities
  • How to best navigate the federal marketplace and position your company
  • Winning proposal and business development strategies
Moderator: Joseph Jordan, Chief Executive Officer, FedBid, Inc.

Speakers:
Mickey Jones, Partner, Evermay Consulting Group
Scott Shaul, Senior Vice President, Worldwide Sales and Services, Savi
Jeffrey Shen, Vice President and General Manager, Red Team Consulting
 

Tuesday, June 7, 2016
 
Spring Social for SECAF Members
The Tower Club  Vienna, VA
6:00 - 8:00 pm

Please join us to celebrate another successful SECAF year.

You are cordially invited to attend the annual Spring Social for SECAF Members. 

Enjoy the opportunity to network and optimize your membership:
 
  • Do you know about everything SECAF has to offer?
  • Find out how you can get more from your membership by getting involved.
  • Do you know about SECAF's Contractor Advice Forums known as "CAF"?
  • Mingle with fellow SECAF members and Board members.
  • Learn about SECAF committees and which one might benefit from your expertise.
 

Thursday, June 2, 2016

Networking Event for Government Contractor Members Only
Chantilly, VA  
5:30 - 7:30 pm

You are invited to come get to know your fellow SECAF Government Contractor members!
  • What do they do?
  • Might there be teaming opportunities?
  • Can they help you?  Can you help them?
  • Enjoy the opportunity to network with your peers.
  • Bring your capabilities statement.

Tuesday, May 24, 2016

Executive Briefing: SBA and Large Gov Cons–Learn How Your Businesses Can Engage!
Gannett/Tegna McLean, VA
7:30 - 10:00 am

Ralph Buchanan from the Small Business Administration (SBA) will moderate a panel of Small Business Liaisons from some of the area’s most prominent large government contractors: BAE Systems; Northrop Grumman; CACI NSS, Inc.  Come learn how small and large businesses working together can be mutually beneficial.  This panel will engage in open communication and help connect these large businesses with SECAF members who can offer innovative solutions.
 
Each company will provide information about its small business goals and areas of interest for future endeavors, revealing opportunities to establish new connections as well as enhance existing ones.  Before and after the panel discussion, there will be ample time for networking among members, guests and the speakers.

Moderator: Ralph Buchanan, US Small Business Administration (SBA), Senior Economic Development Specialist

Speakers:
  • Diane G. Dempsey:  BAE Systems, Intelligence & Security, Director, Socio Economic Business Programs
  • Wayne Pizer:  CACI NSS, Inc., Director of Small Business
  • Carla Undurraga:  Northrop Grumman Systems Corporation, Technology Services Sector, Small Business Liaison Officer (SBLO)

Thursday, May 12, 2016

8th Annual Government Contractor Awards Gala
Hilton McLean  McLean, Virginia
6:00 - 9:00 pm

The Small and Emerging Contractors Advisory Forum’s (SECAF) 8th Annual Government Contractor Awards honor small and emerging government contractors and the players in the industry that rely on small business.
 

Tuesday, April 12, 2016
 
Member Forum: Labor Regulations Every Government Contractor Must Know
The Tower Club  Vienna, VA
7:30 - 10:00am

New labor regulations have drastically changed the way every government contractor has to do business. The new Fair Pay and Safe Workplaces regulations require disclosure of labor violations during the bidding process and prohibit arbitration of certain employment disputes. The new minimum wage regulations require that contractors pay certain employees (whether they are working on a federal contract or not) higher wages. Other regulations require that contractors attempt to hire veterans and the disabled and that offers of employment be given to an existing workforce when a contractor takes over a new contract, and even change how overtime is treated. Importantly, none of these regulations exempt small businesses. 

Our distinguished panel will provide an overview of these new requirements and practical information to help small businesses navigate them successfully.

Moderator:  Devon Hewitt, Partner, Protorae Law PLLC
Speakers:
  • Tim Helm, Former Chief, US Department of Labor, Wage and Hour Division
  • Roger Jordan, Professional Services Council (PSC), Vice President, Government Relations 

Tuesday, March 8, 2016

Executive Briefing:  What You Should Know About Doing Business with the Department of Veterans Affairs!
Tegna/Gannett  McLean, VA
7:30 - 10:00am

Join SECAF and key leaders from the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) to gain insight on how the VA operates in today’s changing climate. Learn how your organization can get an extra edge in order to interact with the VA and procure future opportunities. This event will be an open discussion followed by a Q & A session to help you discover: 
 
  • Why you, as a small business, should consider opportunities with the VA and how you can provide innovations, services and support for its incredible mission.
  • The re-organization strategy the VA is currently undertaking to provide opportunities to small and emerging businesses in an effort to make it a better and more efficient operation.
  • The Who, What and How the VA procures its vast array of services, including the intricacies of the buying organizations, their locations, and how to connect and communicate your capabilities and learn of new opportunities.
Moderator:  Curt Anderson, Director of Strategic Alliances, CSSI, Inc.

Speakers:
  • Chanel Bankston-Carter:  Director of Strategic Outreach, OSDBU, Department of Veterans Affairs
  • Regina McGlinn-McGregor:  Customer Liaison and Small Business Program Manager, Office of Acquisition Operations, Strategic Acquisition Center, Department of Veterans Affairs  

Tuesday, February 23, 2016

Networking Event for Government Contractor Members Only
Bethesda, MD
5:30 - 7:30pm

You are invited to come get to know your fellow
SECAF Government Contractor members!
  • What do they do?
  • Might there be teaming opportunities?
  • Can they help you?  Can you help them?
  • Enjoy the opportunity to network with your peers.
  • Bring your capabilities statement.
 

Wednesday, February 17, 2016

Webinar:  Leveraging Outside Advisors for your Company's Strategic Growth and Development

This SECAF webinar will explore the various tactics that small businesses can use to obtain expert advice necessary to build successful companies.  Often, small companies simply don't have the resources to hire the expertise that they need. Outside advisors can be invaluable in helping companies execute on their growth strategies. Join us for a discussion about how to utilize consultants for expert advice in specific areas such as business development, strategic planning, financing and merger/acquisition planning.  Find out how to assemble a formal Advisory Board that can provide routine and continuous advice on a variety of business issues and opportunities.  SECAF members can always take advantage of SECAF's Contractor Advice Forum (CAF) which has been established to provide SECAF members with the expert advice they need at no extra cost.  In addition, SECAF provides a forum called SECAF Chat, an online “list serve” for SECAF members.  Members may use SECAF Chat to connect with fellow SECAF members, ask a question or share an idea about anything related to your business or just take a look to see what SECAF members are talking about.

Webinar Presented By:  Jack Hughes, Principal and Founder of PHOENIX Financial and Advisory Services, LLC and Principal Partner with Altus Associates
 

Wednesday, January 13, 2016

Member Forum: Strategic Differentiation - Keys to Success in the Changing GovCon Environment
The Tower Club  Vienna, VA
7:30 - 10:00am

Learn valuable tips from successful Government Contractors on how to strategically differentiate and distinguish your business to successfully compete in the new world of contracts.  Fish do not jump in the boat – what should be on your small business strategic checklist?  CMMI? Socio-Economic designations? DCAA audit? ISO?  Come hear SECAF company leaders who have executed on strategic decisions to position themselves to successfully compete in this complex marketplace and hear their lessons learned so you accelerate your corporate growth.
 
  • Corporate certifications as differentiators
    • Government provided certifications (e.g., Facility security clearance, DCAA audit) – how to get things moving
    • Commercial certifications ( e.g., CMMI, ISO) – how to assess cost vs. value
  • Resources/legislation for small businesses
    • FAR
    • National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) actions
  • How to leverage small business status (socioeconomic designations, differentiators, etc.)
  • Considerations for building relationships with both small and large companies
    • Asset-based Thinking (Lemons vs. Lemonade)

 

Moderator:  Jack McGuinness, Managing Partner, Relationship Impact

Speakers:
  • Darryl Britt, President and Founder, Apprio
  • Ben Edson, Founder and CEO of VariQ
  • William Jaffe, Co-Founder and Executive Vice President/General Manager for TAPE

 

Thursday, December 10, 2015

SECAF Holiday Party - Members Only
Gannett/Tegna Building  McLean, VA
6:00 - 8:00pm

Join us to celebrate the season!

Wednesday, December 2, 2015

Executive Briefing: A View of GSA’s IT 70 Leading the Way in 2016 – Understanding how to use your schedule in a changing environment with fewer opportunities and steeper competition.
Gannett/Tegna  McLean, VA
7:30 - 10:00am

 
GSA’s schedule leadership provided an in-depth conversation regarding the upcoming changes and directions for IT 70, category management, and other considerations that industry requires knowledge in their pursuit of business opportunities and the changing landscape. This interactive discussion allowed GSA to hear industry's reactions to the changes and learn of areas that should be considered to make this successful for both GSA and industry.
 
  • Are you aware of the changes happening to the GSA Schedule 70?
  • How do you keep your IT Schedule 70 viable in this changing market?
  • Learn about how GSA is structuring the Schedule – i.e. Cloud SIN, lead time needed for modifications and acquiring the schedule, and benefits of using the Schedule (BPAs, etc.) 
  • Hear what the IT Schedule 70 Program is saying about Category Management and what industry needs to be aware of regarding this new Government direction. 
  • Interact with IT Schedule 70 personnel and gain an understanding of how to use your schedule in a changing environment with fewer opportunities and steeper competition.
 
Moderator:  Kimberly Pack,Wolf Den Associates, LLC, Vice President, Senior Capture and Proposal Leadership 
 
Speakers:
  • Willie Mills, GSA, Director IT Market Development Division (QTFBB)
  • Giovanni Onwuchekwa, GSA, Branch Chief, Programs and Analysis Office of IT Schedule Programs
Sponsor:  Fairfax County Economic Development
 

Thursday, November 12, 2015
Webinar: Key Value Drivers for Gov Cons

  • The most important value drivers – both qualitative and quantitative -  that all Gov Cons should know about
  • Some of the less obvious elements that you may not have considered that can be valuable for smaller companies to be aware of
  • How to avoid issues that may limit exit alternatives down the road 
  • Financing options for small to mid-size contractors that wish to grow by acquisition
  • When and how do you start positioning your company for an exit

 

Speaker:  Cameron Hamilton, The McLean Group

Thursday, October 29, 2015
Networking Reception for Government Contractor Members Only
Tyson Corner  
5:30 - 7:30pm
 

You are invited to come get to know your fellow SECAF Government Contractor Members!
  • What do they do?
  • Might there be a teaming opportunity?
  • Can they help you?
  • Can you help them?
  • Enjoy the opportunity to network with your peers.
  • Bring you capabilities statement.
 

Thursday, September 17, 2015
Executive Briefing: Preparing for Change-A Preview of Contracting Trends in Fiscal Year 2016
Gannett Building  McLean, VA
7:30 - 10:00am
 

  • What are the prospects for the 2016 Budget? Will we see another… Shutdown, Continuing Resolution, Ryan-Murray 2, Grand Bargain, or something else?
  • How will the winners in the 2016 elections impact the business of government contractors?
  • What are the prospects for Acquisition Reform? What does it mean for industry?
  • What are the emerging trends in contract vehicles – including consolidation, on/off ramps, small business set-asides, competition levels and unrestricted/small business pool structures?
  • What are the critical contract vehicles to monitor in FY2016 and FY2017?
  • How will the trends in contract vehicles reshape the industry, including the sudden and rapid growth of mega-small businesses?

Moderator:   Kevin Robbins - Founder, BlueDelta Capital Partners and Founder and Managing Partner, Wolf Den Associates

Speakers:
 
Brian Friel - Bloomberg Government, Senior Government Contracts Analyst
 
Rob Levinson - Bloomberg Government, Senior Defense Policy Analyst

SECAF Sponsor:  John Marshall Bank
 

June 17, 2015
Member Forum: Teaming Agreements - A Strategic Asset for Corporate Growtth
The Tower Club  Vienna, VA
7:30 - 10:00am

A panel of experts focused on the use of teaming arrangements with other businesses (teaming agreements, subcontracts, and joint ventures) to position your company for greater success and possible sale.  The discussion included the benefits of such arrangements, potential pitfalls and their limitations (for instance if a company is reliant on such arrangements because of a set-aside status).

Moderator:  Gene Schleppenbach, Principal, Miles & Stockbridge 

Panelists:
 

  • Ryan Bradel, Associate, Greenberg Traurig
  • Darryl Britt, President and Founder, Apprio
  • Cameron Hamilton, Principal, The McLean Group
  • Susan Hawkins, Vice President, Business Strategy, L-3 National Security Solutions

EVENT SPONSOR:  Greenberg Traurig

 

Wednesday, June 3, 2015

SECAF Spring Social
The Tower Club  Vienna, VA
6:00 pm - 8:00 pm 
Members Only

Celebrate with SECAF!

Spring Social Sponsors:  Federal National Commercial Credit and INDUS Corporation

An opportunity to network and optimize your membership:

  • Do you know about everything SECAF has to offer?
  • Find out how you can get more from your membership by getting involved.
  • Do you know about SECAF's contractor advice forum?
  • Mingle with fellow SECAF members and Board members.
  • Learn about SECAF committees and which one might benefit from your expertise.

Thursday, May 28, 2015 Networking Reception for Government Contractor Members
City Club of Washington, DC
5:30 - 7:30pm

For SECAF Government Contractor Members Only
 
Get to know your fellow SECAF Government Contractor members!
  • What do they do?
  • Might there be teaming opportunities?
  • Can they help you? Can you help them?

Wednesday, May 20, 2015
SECAF Executive Briefing: Let SBA Help You Get SMART on SECAF's Large Business Members
Gannett  McLean, VA
7:30 -10:00am
 
Representatives from the Small Business Administration and three of SECAF's Large Business Members - BAE Systems, L-3 National Security Solutions, and Northrop Grumman - engaged in a lively discussion about how large businesses can benefit from small businesses.

What do SBA, Northrop Grumman, L-3 National Security Solutions and BAE Systems all have in common?  They want YOU, the small businesses with powerful ideas, conviction, and heart!  If that describes your business, then don't miss the event!  These SECAF Large Business members and the SBA will share their critical needs, pathways to success, and secret tips!

From the U.S. Small Business Administration's (SBA) Washington Metropolitan Area District Office
  • Antonio Doss, District Director
  • Ralph Buchanan, Senior Economic Development Specialist 
From BAE Systems
  • Susan King, BAE Systems, Electronic Systems Sector, Director of Supplier Diversity Programs
From L-3 National Security Solutions
  • Chemise Smith, Small Business Liaison Officer, L-3 National Security Solutions
  • Wayne Pizer, Vice-President, Small Business Programs, L-3 National Security Solutions
From Northrop Grumman
  • Cary Havert, Senior Manager, Strategic Business Development, Health Division Northrop Grumman
  • Lynn Livengood, Sector Manager, Northrop Grumman Information Systems Sector, Global Supplier Diversity Program

Event Sponsors: The McLean Group and Pleasant Valley Business Solutions
 

Wednesday, May 13, 2015
Webinar: Indirect Rates - From Strategy to Transformation

Presented By:

Fran Craig, CEO and Founder, Unanet
Dave Johnson, Principal Product Manager, Unanet
Nicole Mitchell, Partner-Government Contractor Services, Aronson LLC
 

  • Understand Basic Indirect Calculations
  • Learn How To Develop Competitive Rates
  • Use Insight Gained From Business Analytics


Sponsored by:  Unanet

 

Thursday, May 7, 2015

The 7th Annual SECAF Awards Gala
Hilton McLean  6:00 - 9:00pm

The SECAF Awards Gala is the premier commemorative event honoring small and emerging government contractors and the players in the ecosystem that support and rely upon small business.  Award winners will be chosen by an independent judges committee and announced at the Awards Gala in the following categories:
 

  • SECAF Government Contractor of the Year: under $6 million revenue
  • SECAF Government Contractor of the Year: $6 to $12 million revenues
  • SECAF Government Contractor of the Year: $12 to $25 million revenues
  • SECAF Award of Excellence: under $25 million revenues (SECAF Members ONLY)
  • SECAF Small Business Partner of the Year
  • SECAF Government Project of the Year (SECAF Members ONLY)


Thursday, April 30, 2015

Member Forum: Competitive Pricing - Living with LPTAs
Tower Club  Vienna, VA
7:30 -10:00am

  • Price to Win!  Sales/marketing focus versus the accountants
  • How to set up pricing
  • Risks and rewards versus challenges and opportunities
  • Dealing with the realities

Speakers:

Mark Burroughs, CPA - Dixon Hughes Goodman LLP, Partner, Government Contract Advisory

Bill Walter, CPA - Dixon Hughes Goodman LLP, Partner, Government Contracting
 

EVENT SPONSOR:  Dixon Hughes Goodman LLP
 

Wednesday, March 25, 2015
SECAF Webinar: Legislative and Regulatory Update for Small Businesses
Presented by:  Devon Elizabeth Hewitt, Partner, Protorae Law

Discussion of some significant proposed rules and regulatory changes recently issued by the Small Business Administration, including:
 

  • A proposed rule to establish a Mentor-Protégé Program for all small businesses, including WOSBs, SDVOSBs, and HUBZone businesses, modeled on the current Section 8(a) Mentor-Protégé Program
  • A proposed rule to change the performance of work requirements set out in the FAR’s Limitations on Subcontracting clause
  • Proposed changes to small business joint venture rules
  • Proposed changes to the non-manufacturer rule
  • Changes to the Women-Owned Small Business Program
Also discussed - the small business provisions of the National Defense Authorization Act of FY 2015 and what’s likely to be on Congress’ radar this year.
 
Sponsored By:  Protorae Law

 


Thursday, February 5, 2015

Networking Reception For Government Contractor Members Only
Chef Geoff's Tysons  
5:30 -7:30pm

Get to know your fellow SECAF Government Contractor members!
  • What do they do?
  • Might there be teaming opportunities?
  • Can they help you? Can you help them?
  • Bring your capabilities statement!


Wednesday, January 28, 2015  SECAF Webinar

Webinar: Attracting and Retaining the Right Talent for Your Federal Contracting Workforce
Presented by:
  • Kathy Albarado, SPHR, President & CEO, Helios HR
  • Amy Stark, Practice Director, Talent Acquisition, Helios HR
  • Amy Gulati, GPHR, SPHR & SPHR-CA, HR Business Partner, Helios HR
It is widely recognized that the government contracting workforce of today faces significant challenges. With many of our most experienced and highly skilled senior leaders nearing retirement over the next decade and the LPTA demands for low-priced labor categories, attracting, growing and retaining high performers is becoming a serious dilemma. We all know that the best employees have options. So, how will you get ahead? How will you maintain the skills, experience, productivity and quality necessary to accomplish both your mission and your client’s?
 
This was an engaging webinar with the talent management experts at Helios HR. Participants learned strategies to help them attract, grow and retain top talent to give their businesses an advantage in a competitive environment.
 
Sponsored By:  Helios HR
 


Wednesday, January 21, 2015

SECAF Executive Briefing: Get Smart on GSA's Schedule Consolidation Plans
Gannett Building McLean, VA
7:30 -10:00am

  • Do you hold a GSA contract?
  • Will your contract be consolidated with other GSA contracts?
  • How will that work?
  • What will the impact be?
  • When will this happen?

Moderator: Maureen Jamieson, Fed Nexus Law
Panelist: Geraldine Watson, GSA
Panelist: Hope Lane, Partner, Aronson LLC, Government Contract Services Group
 

Event Sponsor: Squire Patton Boggs



Wednesday, December 17, 2014

Member Forum: Department of Labor Compliance Update:  What you need to know!
Tower Club Vienna, VA
7:30am - 10:00am
 
A panel of Federal compliance experts will discuss the latest Department of Labor regulatory and compliance issues which impact small and emerging contractors including the impact of:
  • New OFCCP regulations
  • New Executive Orders
  • New SCA enforcement and regulations
  • Recent enforcement of misclassification of 1099 vs. W-2 workers
Join us to learn more about new areas of enforcement as well as the latest on the changing compliance picture and how small and emerging contractors can prepare and ensure that they stay compliant.  

Moderator:  Kevin McCoy - General Counsel, C2 Portfolio, Incorporated

Panelists:  
  • Devon Hewitt - Partner, Protorae Law
  • Tom Wells - District Director, U.S. Department of Labor, Office of Federal Contract Compliance Programs (OFCCP), Baltimore District Office
  • Mark Lara - District Director, US Department of Labor, Wage and Hour Division, Baltimore District Office
Event Sponsor:   C2 Essentials
 

Wednesday, December 10, 2014

SECAF Holiday Party
The Tower Club  Vienna, VA
6:00 - 8:00pm

For SECAF Members Only

Holiday Party Sponsor:  InCadence Strategic Solutions
 
Collected Winter Coats For Those in Need!
 

Wednesday, November 19, 2014
 
SECAF Executive Briefing: Get SMART* on Today's SBA-How SBA is Working for Small and Emerging Businesses
*SMART - Sensibly Mindful About Recent Transactions
Gannett  McLean, VA
7:30 - 10:00am

The Small Business Administration (SBA) has been making news of late with several pending actions and directions that have immediate impact on the small and emerging contractor community.  Come hear SBA leaders share the direction of regulatory, policy, standards and certification trends under consideration and the time frame for review and adoption. This event will provide a powerful, relevant and interactive exchnage between leadership from the SBA and the SECAF community to enable members to grow their companies.

Moderator:  Natalia Olson-Urtecho, Regional Administrator - U.S. Small Business Administration, Region III

Speakers:
  • Mehul Sanghani, Founder and President of Octo Consulting Group
  • Anthony Ruiz, Assistance District Director/8(a) Business Development Program, Washington Metropolitan Area District Office, U.S. Small Business Administration
  • Maria Kersey,  Director, Office of Small Business Programs, Defense Intelligence Agency
 

Wednesday, November 5, 2014

SECAF Matchmaking and Networking Session with Northrop Grumman Information Systems
Northrop Grumman McLean, VA
8:30am until 11:00am 

Networking and matchmaking with key contacts from Northrop Grumman Information Systems sector who are looking to fulfill subcontracting requirements.  Decision makers will be available to discuss how your company can help meet their needs.  Representatives from Northrop Grumman's Global Supplier Diversity Program Office will be on hand to help you get connected.  

Event Sponsor:   Northrop Grumman, SECAF Large Business Member
 

Wednesday, October 15, 2014

Member Forum: Legal, Regulatory and Market Trends Affecting Gorwing Contractors - What You Don't Know CAN Hurt You!
The Tower Club Vienna, VA
7:30-10:00am
 
  • Forecasting the 2015 Capital and Regulatory Climate and Trends - What Emerging Contractors Need to Know!
  • Counterfeit Parts - The New Rules Every Prime and Sub Needs to Know
  • Government Contractor Compliance - Current Issues and Trends
  • Calculating the Limitation on Subcontracting - Status of the Small Business Administration's ("SBA") implementation of Section 1651 and 1652 of the Department of Defense's ("DoD") National Defense Authorization Act ("NDAA") for Fiscal Year ("FY") 2013
  • Developments in Open Systems Architecture at DoD - Key Take-Aways from GAO Report GAO-14-617R, “Defense Acquisitions: Review of Private Industry and Department of Defense Open Systems Experiences,” June 26, 2014
  • Recent Protest Decisions Every Contractor Should Appreciate
Speakers:
 
Andrew Sherman - JonesDay Partner and SECAF Co-Founder and Board Member
Fernand A Lavallee - JonesDay Partner
Grant Willis - JonesDay Partner

Event Sponsor:   Jones Day

 


Wednesday, September 17, 2014

Executive Briefing: Fiscal 2015 - Are You Looking at the Right Business Opportunities?
Gannett Building McLean, VA

Looking toward fiscal year 2015, SECAF will have an open discussion with suggestions where small and emerging businesses should consider putting their Business Development budget dollars (and what areas should they avoid) based on the hot trends of government spending. Come join us to hear from some visionary leaders knowledgeable about the government funding and spending trends for the coming year.  Some topic areas to be discussed will be:

  • What are the top government opportunities in the under 25M dollar range?
  • What are the top government organizations that have the largest IT budget for 2015?
  • Who are the top small and emerging businesses in the federal marketplace?

Moderator: Christopher J. Dorobek - Founder, editor and publisher, GovLoop's DorobekINSIDER

Speakers:  

  • Robert Levinson - Senior Defense Analyst with Bloomberg Government
  • Nate Nash - Chief Executive Officer at GovTribe
  • Carey Webster- Director, Federal Information Services at Deltek
 

Thursday, July 24, 2014

Webinar: Legislative and Regulatory Developments Affecting Small Businesses
 
Jack Hughes, Treasurer of SECAF and Principal and Founder of PHEONIX Financial and Advisory Services, LLC, and Devon Hewitt, a Member of SECAF’s Board of Directors and Chair of SECAF’s Legislative & Regulatory Committee and Partner at Protorae Law.
  • Efforts to increase the government-wide small business contracting and subcontracting goals
  • Extension of the 8(a) Mentor-Protégé program to all small businesses
  • Changes in the Limitations on Subcontracting clause
  • Transfer of SDVOSB verification from the Center for Veterans Enterprise (VA) to SBA
  • SBA’s WOSB Program and Sole Source Contracts

Webinar Sponsor:  Protorae Law
 


Thursday, June 12, 2014

Spring Social and Member Orientation
Gannett Building McLean, VA

5:30 - 6:15 pm Member Orientation
6:00 - 8:00 pm Social
 
In celebration of another successful SECAF year, you are cordially invited to attend the annual Members Only SECAF Spring Social.
 

Wednesday, May 28, 2014

Webinar: Achiving Small Business Growth During Challenging Times

Presented by Greg Baroni, Chairman and CEO, Attain, LLC
  • How do you grow your small business during challenging times?
  • What works and what doesn't?
  • How do you win your fair share of business by spending your precious little resources on the right oppportunities at the right time?
Webinar Sponsor:  Unanet

Thursday, May 15, 2014

Gannett Building McLean, VA
Executve Briefing: DHS-ICE Update with Phil Letowt
7:30-10:00am

Speaker:  Philip J Letowt, Chief Technology Officer at the Department of Homeland Security - U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE)

Event Sponsor:  JAMIS Software Corporation
 
Thursday, May 1, 2014

McLean Hilton
2014 Sixth Annual Goverment Contractor Awards Gala

The Gala is the premier commemorative event honoring small and emerging government contractors and the players in the ecosystem that support and rely upon small business.  For a list of 2014 award wiinners, please click here.
 

Thursday, April 24, 2014

The Other Barn Columbia,  MD 

SECAF and Fort Meade BASE Business Initiative (BBI) - SECAF and BBI Partners for networking and a procurement discussion with Fort Meade Defense and Intelligence Agencies and Prime Contractors.  Representatives from Lockheed Martin and General Dynamics as well as governmental representatives from the Defense and Intelligence Community discuss the procurement process and small business environment within the Fort Meade region.

Speakers:

Lockheed Martin Corporation - Deon Viergutz, Dorector of Operations
NSA, Office of Small Business Programs - Grant Gursky, Outreach Advocate
General Dynamics Information Technology, Intelligence Programs - Dave Dobbs, NSA Business Operations Director

The BASE Business Initiative (BBI) helps business to navigate the complex defense contracting environment.  The BBI team works with more than 2,500 partner companies through outreach and networking, to help position business to support critical defense missions, with a focus on Ft. Meade.  The BBI tenets are transparency – support – connect.

Event Sponsors:  The McLean Group and John Marshall Bank
 


Thursday, April 10, 2014

Educational Forum: Strategic Cost Estimating – Understanding Your Costs to be More Realistic and Competitive in Today’s Market
The Tower Club Vienna, VA
7:30-10:00am

Speaker:  Bill Walter, Dixon Hughes Goodman LLP

Event Sponsor:    Dixon Hughes Goodman LLP

Thursday, March 13, 2014

Executive Briefing: Insights and Opportunity – The CIO Transformation at HUD
Gannett Building McLean, VA
7:30-10:00am

Speaker:  Tarrazzia Martin, Senior Technical Advisor to the CIO Transformation, Office of the Chief Information Officer, Department of Housing and Urban Development

Insights for small and emerging businesses wishing to pursue business with HUD and also strategic directions the organization is heading in light of budget challenges, sequestration, debt ceiling and other factors affecting business opportunities at the Department.

Event Sponsor:  C2 Essentials
 

Wednesday, February 26, 2014

Webinar:  The Seven Habits of Highly Effective Small and Emerging Government Contractors
Presented by Cindy Castillo, CEO of CSS I Inc.
•    What makes contractors successful in challenging times.
•    How government contractors can overcome obstacles in today's market.
•    How independence, interdependence and continuous improvement are vital to your business' health.

Webinar Sponsor: INDUS

Webinar Host: Unanet
 

Tuesday, February 11, 2014

Educational Forum: Government Contracts: Opportunities and Obstacles -  Presentation by Jones Day partners Grant Willis and Andrew Sherman addressing the rewards and risks associated with federal government contracting, practical considerations in dealing with federal agency customers, and current trends and issues.

Event Sponsor:    Jones Day
 


Thursday, January 16, 2014

Gannett Building
Executive Briefing: Creative Insights for Success from Former Federal CIOs - A Conversation with Small and Emerging Businesses

Speakers:

Nitin Pradhan - GOVonomy, former CIO at DOT
Vance Hitch -  Deloitte, Former CIO at DOJ
Chris Niedermayer - BRMi, Former Deputy CIO at HUD
Moderator - Roger Jordan of PSC Group

The role of the government contractor is changing as is the target of engaging our federal counterparts in pursuit of opportunity.  On January 16th, SECAF will host 3 former CIO level leaders joining us to discuss how small and emerging businesses can learn potential new strategies to pursue business with the federal government.  Coming from the other side of the table into industry, these individuals bring years of federal service experience and are coming to SECAF to share their wisdom, experience, and some new insight on how our membership can achieve success in this challenging, lowest price, highly competitive marketplace.

Event Sponsor - Fairfax County Economic Development Authority
 

December 15, 2011

SECAF Holiday Party (Members Only)

Please join us again this year to celebrate our successes and look forward to a new year of progress and opportunity.
 

December 6, 2011

SECAF Education Forum: Indirect Rates for Government Contractors

At this session Paul Roche will discuss his experience in designing indirect pool structures for success in the marketplace and with comforting Government auditors.  Specifically, Paul will answer from his experience questions such as:
 

  • How does the rate process/cycle work?
  • How many overhead pools should I have?
  • What should my indirect rates be?
  • What is a “wrap” rate and what should it be? 
  • When, how, and why should I implement a Subcontractor & Material Handling rate?
  • How do I set rates for more than one year?
  • When would I set up forward pricing rates?
     

Please come prepared with questions.
 

November 10, 2011

Executive Briefing: Programs and Resources at OPM and DOC

Participants will hear from the Office of Personnel Management and the Department of Commerce's CommerceConnect.
 

Who should attend: Business owners who want to learn about resources for advancing their business.
 

Featuring: Matthew Falls, Department of Commerce's CommerceConnect and Dana Taylor, Deputy Director, Small & Disadvantaged Business Utilization & Policy, Office of Personnel Management
 

Event Sponsor: Argy
 

October 4, 2011

Executive Briefing: On & Off Ramps in Government Contracting

With more and more agencies looking to use in-place contracts for IT project tasking, getting the opportunity to do business can be a daunting process. Bill Walter, Dixon Hughes Goodman LLP, will present the process and identify key contracts small businesses should be tracking. IDIQs, BPAs and to-be-awarded contracts will be discussed at this must attend session.
 

September 8, 2011

Executive Briefing: Opportunity Landscape for Government

SECAF presents a powerful panel discussion for the government contracting community. Participants will learn from the region's top analysts about what they think the coming year holds for government contractors.
 

Who should attend: Business owners who want to learn where the opportunities are and how to engage them.
 

Featuring: Paul Murphy, Bloomberg and Kevin Plexico, Deltek Input
Moderator: Fran Craig, CEO, Unanet Technologies
 

June 8, 2011

Optimizing SECAF Membership  & Member Appreciation Social (Members Only)
 

Topics include:

  • Connect with SECAF Board members in a more intimate setting.
  • Learn which committee may best address your needs.
  • Hear how other members have grown their business as a direct result of their SECAF membership.
     

June 7, 2011

Member Forum:  Business Systems Made Easy (Members Only)

The session will discuss the ever-increasing importance of business systems in the Federal marketplace.  Formerly only cost reimbursement contracts and large contractors needed to ensure business systems that satisfy the requirements of the DCAA audit.  Today, the smallest contractor can be easily omitted from the competitive range or face a tremendous squeeze on cash flow if they fail to understand and ensure that their business systems are adequate for Government contracting.
 

The expert panel will discuss:

  • Contract type risks and how they impact business system requirements
  • What a business system is – and what a business system is not supposed to be
  • The current status of the draft DoD business system rule and how this may impact future contract awards and subsequent performance
  • Recent activities of DCAA and DCMA regarding responsibility for adequacy determinations
  • How to use your business system as an effective tool to help you run your business rather than simply letting Federal oversight “run your business”
     

The session will provide an opportunity for Q&A with the audience.
 

May 23, 2011

Member Forum:  Key Legal and Strategic Issues for Growing Contractors (Members Only)

The panel will cover several key growth challenges facing today's growing contractor, including formulating effective growth strategy and current trends in government contracts law and a special opening “state of the market” introduction. This program will be led by Jones Day partners Andrew J. Sherman (SECAF co-founder and Board member) and Grant Willis.
 

May 12, 2011

Executive Briefing: Counterintelligence for American Business

This panel features Laurie A. Schive, Director, Office of Strategic Partnerships, Office of the National Counterintelligence Executive (ONCIX) and Mischel Kwon, President, Mischel Kwon Associates.
 

In today's wired and global world, foreign intelligence services, criminals and private sector spies are increasingly focused on American companies.  Their efforts compromise intellectual property, trade secrets and technological developments that are the key to both our national security and long-term economic prosperity.
 

April 12, 2011

Demystifying Earned Value for Government Contractors (Members Only)

The session will discuss the increasing importance of Earned Value Management Systems (EVMS) to government contractors. Formerly the realm or the largest DoD projects, EVMS is becoming a common requirement on smaller contracts for both Civilian and Defense Agencies.
 

The expert panel will discuss:

  • What contractors need to know about EVMS, how to respond to RFPs, and how to comply with contract requirements
  • When EVMS is appropriate to service type contracts
  • Earned Value – not just as a Federal contract requirement, but as a capability for your organization
  • New directions in Civilian Agencies such as Agile Development and EVM
     

The session will provide an opportunity for Q&A with the audience.
 

March 24, 2011

Executive Briefing: New from the SBA

This is a dynamic and informative SECAF event featuring a panel discussion by experts from the Small Business Administration (SBA).

 
Presenters include:  Bridget Bean, District Director, Washington Metropolitan Area District Office and David Loines, Area Director, Office of Government Contracting
 

What you will learn:

  • Update on the Women-Owned Small Business Contract Program
  • Update on the Small Business Jobs Act
  • Resources available to the small business owner through SBA
     

March 8, 2011

Educational Forum: Secrets of Success - Understanding Value Drivers in a Government Contractor

You will learn to focus on the metrics and value drivers that are important to be thinking about and tracking as you grow and plan long-term.
 

February 10, 2011

Doing Business with the Intelligence Community: What You Need to Know for 2011

Who should attend: Business owners who want to learn about doing business in the Intelligence Community.
 

What you will learn:

  • How to utilize outreach programs
  • How to receive the necessary clearances to engage in classified discussions
  • How to market your business to agencies
     

January 13, 2011

Executive Briefing: SBIR - What You Need to Know from the Experts

At this panel presentation you will hear from experts from DARPA, USDA and the CIT.
 

Who should attend: Business owners who want to learn about the SBIR programs and how they can position their business to participate.
 

Presenters include:  Robert Brooke, Director of Federal Funding Programs at the Center for Innovative Technology, who will provide an overview of the program and describe the assistance CIT provides to Virginia based firms; Susan Nichols, SBIR/STTR Program Manager at DARPA, who will discuss DARPA’s programs and specific opportunities available; and Charles Cleland, PhD, National Program Leader, Division of Environmental Systems, USDA, who will talk about the portfolio of applied research and development projects supported by the SBIR program.


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