EIELSON AIR FORCE BASE, Alaska -- Eielson is in search of new and innovative ways to support the mission and the 354th Contracting Squadron is here to help.
The 354th CONS works with non-government contractors to find solutions to problems units around base may have. The goal for the 354th CONS is to bridge the gap between non-traditional government contractors and mission partners at Eielson.
“Traditionally, our mission partners come to us with a solution in mind for what they need, which limits our ability to be innovative,” said 2nd Lt. Megan Staller, a 354th CONS contracting specialist. “By utilizing the Commercial Solutions Opening, a relatively new acquisition tool, it allows us to be a bit more creative.”
Staff Sgt. Brandon Tracer, a 354th CONS contracting officer, said the CSO program is designed to not only lower barriers of entry to working with the government, but also help foster growth in small businesses and make connections with entities that are rich in innovation and creative solutions.
The squadron has other acquisition tools as well. Recently, they have transitioned from FedBizOps to beta.SAM.gov to advertise contract opportunities.
“They operate similarly,” said Staller. “Both have been effective in reaching out to those who are familiar with the process of doing business with the government, but it unfortunately limits us to those vendors.”
The 354th CONS knows that linking up with new business partners will benefit the wing.
“Connecting with these groups will help us match new solutions to problems we face every day in making our missions happen,” said Tracer.
Vendors interested in working with the 354th CONS are encouraged to reach out to 907-377-3508.