Training an Agile Acquisition Workforce to Combat Emerging Threats

Abstract

As DoD shifts its focus from the conflict in Afghanistan to near-peer threats in China and Russia, the Department's ability to quickly acquire emerging technology will be paramount to its success. In many cases, this will require working with non-traditional contractors using OTAs, SBIR/STTR grants, and lesser-known authorities like DoD Section 2373. These authorities have been available to the Department for decades, yet we continue to find ourselves lamenting the government’s inability to access emerging technologies. Why is that? Simply, effectively leveraging these authorities requires a well-trained, adaptable workforce that understands the nuances of working outside the FAR. This paper will employ principles of cognitive psychology to develop an effective professional development training plan for the Department's acquisition workforce to empower personnel to more efficiently acquire the emerging technologies needed to confront emerging threats.