01 RFP for Community Strategist.pdf

Revised February 2026

REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS

for

COMMUNITY STRATEGIST

PROJECT NO. 25-803C1

ISSUED AUGUST 2026

Proposal Submission Deadline:

Thursday, September 17, 2026 at 3:00 PM

Port of Corpus Christi Authority

TABLE OF CONTENTS

SECTION 1 NOTICE OF SOLICITATION

SECTION 2 PROJECT OVERVIEW

SECTION 3 PROPOSED TIMELINE FOR CONTRACT AWARD

SECTION 4 INSTRUCTIONS TO PROPOSERS

SECTION 5 REQUIRED PROPOSAL CONTENT, EVALUATION AND AWARD

SECTION 6 SCOPE OF WORK

SECTION 7 INSURANCE REQUIREMENTS

SECTION 8 GRANT REQUIREMENTS

ATTACHMENT A – EPA GENERAL TERMS AND CONDITIONS

ATTACHMENT B – FEDERALLY REQUIRED CONTRACT CLAUSES

ATTACHMENT C – EPA CERTIFICATIONS

LIST OF EXHIBITS

EXHIBIT A – SAMPLE CONSULTING SERVICES CONTRACT

EXHIBIT B – CONFLICT OF INTEREST QUESTIONNAIRE (FORM CIQ)

Request for Proposals for Community Strategist Section 1 1 | P a g e

SECTION 1

NOTICE OF SOLICITATION

The Port of Corpus Christi Authority (“PCCA”) is requesting proposals from experienced consultant to perform Community Strategist. This is grant funded through the U.S.

Environmental Protection Agency’s Clean Ports Program.

If you are interested in providing temporary employment services to the PCCA the complete Request for Proposal (RFP) may be obtained at the PCCA’s procurement website (https://pocca.procureware.com). Proposers must register on the PCCA’s procurement website in order to access the RFP.

A pre-proposal meeting is scheduled for 2:00 PM on Thursday, September 10, 2026, at the Ortiz International Center located at 402 Charles Zahn, Jr. Drive, Corpus Christi, Texas 78401.

Proposers are to report to the front desk. For virtual access to the meeting, login information will be published prior to the meeting date/time.

In order to be considered, Proposals must be received electronically at PCCA’s procurement website (https://pocca.procureware.com), addressed to the Port of Corpus Christi Authority, Attn:

Melinda Licon, Manager of Procurement Services, 400 Charles Zahn, Jr. Drive, Corpus Christi, Texas 78401, no later than 3:00 PM on Thursday, September 17, 2026 (the “Deadline”). Proposals received after the deadline will not be considered. Proposals may not be faxed or emailed to PCCA office. PCCA reserves the right to reject any or all Proposals received.

Proposers must not attempt to contact staff members, Commissioners, or agents of PCCA associated with this RFP to discuss or ask questions about the contents of the RFP other than in writing as provided above. Any such contact may result in disqualification of the Proposer.

BY AUTHORITY OF THE PORT COMMISSION

OF THE PORT OF CORPUS CHRISTI AUTHORITY

OF NUECES COUNTY, TEXAS

https://pocca.procureware.com/

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SECTION 2

PROJECT OVERVIEW

The Port of Corpus Christi Authority (“PCCA”), a navigation district and political subdivision of the State of Texas, which is located in San Patricio and Nueces County and exercises jurisdiction over PCCA owned lands and waterways, is requesting Proposals for Community Strategist.

The Consultant shall provide on-site program coordinator for implementation support to Port Authority staff for the PORT-Able Pathways Initiative under the EPA Clean Ports Grant.

The Consultant’s representative will operate under the direction of the Community Relations Manager and will coordinate with PCCA staff, educational institutions, training providers, and industry partners to develop and implement regional workforce pathways in maritime and industry careers across the Coastal Bend.

The purpose of this role is to gather stakeholder input, formalize partner participation, establish benchmarks and timelines, and develop a structured framework connecting career awareness to education, training, and employment opportunities.

The Consultant’s representative shall balance a regular on-site presence at the Port of Corpus Christi Authority offices (minimum 30 hours per week) while also attending off-site partner meetings as requested.

End of Section

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SECTION 3

PROPOSED TIMELINE FOR CONTRACT AWARD

• Wednesday, August 26, 2026 Request for Proposals issued.

• Thursday, September 10, 2026 at 2:00 PM Pre-Proposal Meeting

• Wednesday, September 16, 2026 at 5:00 PM Deadline for Questions

• Thursday, September 17, 2026 at 3:00 PM Deadline for Submission of Proposal

• September 24-28, 2026 Evaluation of Proposals Consultant

Interviews (at PCCA discretion)

• Tuesday, October 20, 2026 Presentation to Port Commission for Award

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SECTION 4

INSTRUCTIONS TO PROPOSERS

4.01 Examination of RFP Documents

By submitting a proposal, the Proposer represents that this RFP and any applicable Addenda has been examined, that the Proposer has become familiar with the work required, and that the responding Proposer is capable of performing quality work to successfully achieve the objectives of PCCA.

4.02 Questions and/or Inquiries and PCCA Contact Restrictions

Questions and/or inquiries regarding this RFP shall be submitted online to the PCCA procurement website (https://pocca.procureware.com/home) and will be responded to via the same website. PCCA responses to questions and inquiries will be available to all registered Proposers via the PCCA procurement website. Proposers may only rely upon written information provided by PCCA to questions or inquiries on the PCCA procurement website. Proposers may not rely upon, nor is PCCA responsible for, any oral information or instructions provided in reference to the RFP.

Proposers must not attempt to contact staff members, Port Commissioners, or agents of PCCA associated with this RFP to discuss or ask questions about the contents of the RFP, other than in writing as provided above. Any such contact may result in disqualification of the Proposer. To the extent that a Proposer relies upon information obtained from third parties and/or outside of the formal process described above, the Proposer does so at its own risk.

4.03 Addenda

If any inquiries or questions, in the opinion of PCCA, warrant a modification to this RFP, a written Addendum will be prepared and posted, as described below, and may not result in a direct response to an inquiry or question.

In addition, PCCA may make changes, additions, or deletions to the requirements in this RFP prior the submittal date. Any modification will be made by written addendum. Each addendum to this RFP will be posted on the PCCA procurement website (https://pocca.procureware.com/home). PCCA will not be bound to any modifications or deviations from the requirements set forth in this RFP as the result of oral instructions.

Proposers submitting a Proposal shall acknowledge receipt of addenda in their submittal.

Failure to acknowledge receipt of all addenda may cause a Proposal to be deemed non-responsive. Proposers will be solely responsible for ensuring that all addenda have been received, acknowledged, and incorporated into the submitted Proposal.

https://pocca.procureware.com/home

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4.04 Pre-Proposal Meeting

A pre-proposal meeting is scheduled at 2:00 PM on Thursday, September 10, 2026, at the Ortiz International Center located at 402 Charles Zahn, Jr. Drive, Corpus Christi, Texas 78401. Proposers are to report to the front desk. For virtual access to the meeting, login information will be published prior to the meeting date/time.

4.05 Submission of Proposals

PCCA intends to select a qualified firm or team to provide services for the project identified in this RFP; however, Port operations and the business environment are subject to change, and PCCA reserves the right to delay or not award a contract for this project should such action be in the best interest of PCCA.

Proposer must provide a clear and concise proposal that meets all outlined criteria as listed in Section 5.04. Each section must be clearly labeled to meet the evaluation criteria. Failure to provide a response to meet all criteria listed in the RFP may result in your submission being deemed non-responsive.

In addition, PCCA may modify, expand, or reduce the scope of work to meet operational or budgetary needs.

A. Date and Time of Submission: Proposal must be received electronically on the procurement website (https://pocca.procureware.com/home) by 3:00 PM on Thursday, September 17, 2026. Packages received after the above-specified date and time will be returned to the Proposer unopened.

B. It is the Proposer’s sole responsibility to ensure that the Proposal is delivered in the manner addressed in this RFP by the due date and time. PCCA has the right to reject any Proposals not properly delivered and will not be responsible for any electronic files submitted that do not transmit or experience issues when accessed or downloaded.

C. Acceptance of Proposal:

1. PCCA reserves the right to accept or reject any or all proposals, waive any informalities or irregularities in the Proposal, request additional information or revisions to the Proposal, and to negotiate with any or all Proposers in accordance with Section 5.06 of this RFP.

2. PCCA reserves the right to withdraw this RFP at any time without prior notice, and PCCA makes no representation that a contract will be awarded to any Proposer responding to this RFP.

3. PCCA reserves the right to issue a new RFP for any or all work listed herein.

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4. Proposal submitted are not to be copyrighted.

5. PCCA reserves the right to require confirmation of information furnished by any Proposer and/or request any Proposer to provide additional evidence of qualifications to successfully perform the work.

4.06 Confidential Status and Disclosure of Proposal Contents

As a political subdivision of the State of Texas, PCCA is subject to the Texas Public Information Act (“the Act”), Chapter 552 of the Texas Government Code, and has no authority to enter into a confidentiality agreement in contravention of the Act in response to any public information requests under the Act that are submitted during the RFP process.

PCCA shall deem and argue to the Texas Attorney General that all Proposal submitted in response to the RFP are confidential under the Act; however, once the RFP process has concluded, this exception will no longer apply.

Proposers should be aware that the Texas Attorney General may determine that full or partial disclosure is required for information deemed to be confidential or proprietary by a Proposer. It is the sole obligation of the Proposer to advocate for the confidential or proprietary nature of any information provided in or along with its Proposal. PCCA shall not advocate for the confidentiality of the statement’s material to the Texas Attorney General or to any other person or entity. PCCA shall, pursuant to the Act, make a good faith effort to notify the Proposer, upon receipt of any public information request involving a submitted Proposal after the conclusion of the RFP process.

For any such request, the Proposer will be responsible for submitting written justification to the Texas Attorney General detailing why particular information should be withheld, such as the exception applicable to certain commercial information. In order to protect its ability to claim exemption from the release of information contained in a submitted Proposal, the Proposer should clearly designate within its Proposal and accompanying materials any information that it believes to be exempt from disclosure and provide legal justification for each instance. Confidential information should be easily separable from the remainder of the RFP. Marking the entire Proposal as Confidential is not acceptable.

By submitting a Proposal, the Proposer acknowledges its understanding and agreement that PCCA shall have no liability to the Proposer or any other person or entity for any disclosure of information made in accordance with the Act.

Further, publicity or news releases pertaining to the RFP, responses to this RFP, or discussions of any kind related to the RFP, or response documents may not be released without prior written approval of PCCA.

This section applies regardless of whether a contract is awarded as a result of this RFP.

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4.07 Pre-Contractual Expenses

PCCA shall not, in any event, be liable for any pre-contractual expense incurred by Proposers in the preparation of its Proposal. Pre-contractual expenses are defined as expenses incurred by Proposer in:

A. Preparing its Proposal in response to this RFP.

B. Submitting its Proposal to PCCA.

C. Negotiating with PCCA on any matter related to a submitted Proposal.

D. Any other expenses incurred by Proposer prior to the date of award of an agreement resulting from this RFP.

4.08 Conflict of Interest

The Proposer is required to complete a Conflict of Interest Questionnaire (Form CIQ) attached as Exhibit B and submit it within the Proposal if the Proposer has:

A. Any employment or other business relationship with any employee of PCCA.

B. Given any gifts or services of more than $100 in aggregate value to any employee or relative of an employee of PCCA within the preceding 12-month period.

4.09 Texas Ethics Commission Rules

The successful Proposer will be required to comply with the provisions of Section

2252.908 of the Texas Government Code and Chapter 46 of the Texas Ethics Commission Rules by preparing and submitting Texas Form 1295, “Certificate of Interested Parties” and submitting the signed form to PCCA at the time the contract is executed for any agreement that requires Approval of the Port Commission. The successful Proposer will be required to submit the Texas Form 1295 using PCCA provided project number and description in Box 3 on the form.

Information on Form 1295 and associated code and rules can be found at:

https://www.ethics.state.tx.us

4.10 Agreement

PCCA will enter into an Agreement with the selected Proposer. A sample PCCA Consulting Services Contract is included in Exhibit A.

The entire RFP document, technical specifications, technical drawings, addenda (if any), Proposer proposal and response document(s) and the executed agreement between PCCA https://www.ethics.state.tx.us/whatsnew/elf_info_form1295.htm

Section 4 8 | P a g e and Proposer shall constitute the entire contract and agreement. All work shall be performed in accordance with these documents for the duration of the Contract.

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SECTION 5

PROPOSAL, EVALUATION AND AWARD

5.01 Proposal Content

Proposals should not include any unnecessarily elaborate promotional material. Lengthy narrative is discouraged, and proposals should be brief, clear, and concise. Proposers are encouraged to limit the submittals to less than 20 pages, excluding resumes, cover page, table of contents, letter of transmittal, and subconsultant letters.

A. Letter of Transmittal.

Shall not exceed two pages and at a minimum contain the following information:

1. A brief profile of the Proposer organization, including the types of services offered; the year founded; form of the organization (corporation, partnership, or sole proprietorship); number, size, and location of offices;

total number of employees; and the names of all owners, if the organization is not a public company.

2. Identification of Proposer who will have contractual responsibility with the

Port Authority. Identification shall include legal name of company, corporate address, telephone number and email address of the Proposer’s contact person.

3. Proposed working relationship between Proposer and subconsultants, if applicable.

4. Acknowledgement of receipt of all addenda, if any.

B. Appendices

Appendices, resumes, subconsultant letters, and information considered by the Proposer to be pertinent to this RFP and has not been specifically solicited in any of the foregoing sections may be placed in a separate appendix section. Appendices shall be relevant and brief and may contain the following information:

1. The Proposer should provide resumes only for proposed project managers and key personnel. The Proposer can also include brief biographies of other support personnel where such information may be relevant to the successful completion of the required services. Resume are limited to two pages per each person identified.

2. If the Proposer will engage subconsultants to assist with specific projects, provide a letter from each subconsultant that includes the company name, address, contact person, telephone number, and project function, a

Section 5 10 | P a g e statement authorizing the use of the subconsultant’s name in the Proposal, and description of the service to be provided. These letters are limited to two pages per subconsultant.

3. Additional information. If the Proposer desires to include additional information considered to be material to the RFP, such information may be provided in a brief appendix. The Proposer is advised that lengthy marketing brochures, descriptions, company histories, or similar material will not be evaluated and considered as part of the selection process.

5.02 Technical Proposal

A. Qualifications, Relevant Experience and References. This section of the proposal shall establish the ability of the Proposer to satisfactorily perform the required work

The Proposer shall:

1. Provide a brief profile of the Firm, including the types of services offered;

the year founded; form of the organization (corporation, partnership, or sole proprietorship); number, size and location of offices; total number of employees; and the names of all owners, if the Firm is not a public company;

2. Describe the Firm’s experience in performing work of a similar nature to that solicited in this RFP, and highlight the participation in such work by the key personnel proposed for assignment to the Port Authority;

3. Give a brief history of the Proposer’s experience as a Community Strategist;

4. The Proposer should provide sufficient information to demonstrate a successful track record of any community workforce implementation and any other relevant information to demonstrate Proposer’s expertise;

5. Describe specialized training, experience and professional competence in the area directly related to this RFP;

6. Should the Proposer engage subcontractors to assist with the required services, Proposer shall identify these subcontractors, if any, by company name, address, contact person, telephone number and project function, if applicable. The list should include a summary of the roles and responsibilities of each subcontractor; and,

7. Provide a minimum of three (3) references for completed work similar to that in scope of work contained in this RFP. Furnish the contact name, title, Section 5 11 | P a g e address and telephone number of the person at each client agency/organization who is most knowledgeable about the work performed. The Port Authority, in its sole discretion, reserves the right to request additional references, to contact and verify all references, and to request additional supporting information from the proposer as the Port Authority deems necessary or appropriate.

B. Proposed Team and Organization. This section of the proposal shall establish the adequacy and experience of the Proposer’s staff (including subcontractors) to provide the requested services, as well as to identify the experience of key personnel who will be assigned to the project. The Proposer shall:

1. Identify the proposed Consultant for the required consultant services.

Furnish brief resume (two pages maximum) of the proposed Project Manager, including the education, training, experience and applicable professional credentials of the proposed Consultant. State where the Consultant for the project will be located;

2. Identify the proposed key personnel (including subcontractors) for the required modeling and analysis services. Furnish brief resumes (two pages maximum) of the key personnel, including the education, training, experience and applicable professional licenses and credentials. These resumes should include summaries of the modeling and analysis services provided by the key personnel during the prior three (3) years;

3. Include a statement that key personnel will be available for the duration of the required services, and acknowledging that no person designated as “key” shall be removed or replaced without the prior written concurrence of the Port Authority. State where the management staff for the project will be located;

4. Provide an organizational chart for the key personnel (including subcontractors) and delineate the lines of communication between them.

Indicate the minimum qualifications for supervisory personnel;

5. Provide a letter from each subcontractor authorizing the use of its name in the Proposal and describing the role it has agreed to play in delivering the services specified in the Scope of Work; and, C. Detailed Work Plan. The Proposer shall provide a narrative addressing the Scope of Work and demonstrating the Proposer’s understanding of the Port Authority’s needs and requirements. The Proposer’s work plan should provide the Port Authority with an understanding of the Proposer’s comprehensive knowledge of and approach to community workforce implementation services. The Proposer shall:

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1. Describe the proposed approach and work plan for completing the services specified in the Scope of Work. The description of the proposed approach shall discuss the services in sufficient detail to demonstrate the Proposer’s ability to accomplish the Port Authority’s objectives; and,

2. Describe approach to managing resources, including a description of the role(s) of any subcontractors, if applicable, their specific responsibilities, and how their work will be supervised. Identify methods that Proposer will use to ensure quality, budget, and schedule control.

D. Quality Assurance and Control. This section of the Proposer’s response to the RFP should provide the Port Authority with an understanding of the Proposer’s quality assurance and control program. The Proposer shall:

1. Include any policies and procedures that Proposer will use to ensure quality assurance and control covering the required work.

2. Identify positions and provide descriptions for personnel responsible for quality assurance and control; and,

3. Describe how quality assurance and control activities are documented and reviewed with senior staff.

E. Fee Proposal. This section of the Proposer’s response to the RFP should provide the Port Authority with the proposed cost of services. The Proposer must provide a Cost Proposal, listing the total, not to exceed fee to complete Community Strategist as well as hourly rates by each job classification.

F. Exceptions and Deviations. State any exceptions or deviations from the requirements of this RFP. Where the Proposer wishes to propose alternative approaches to meeting the Port Authority’s requirements, these shall be thoroughly explained.

5.04 Evaluation Process

A. First, PCCA will evaluate, rank, and score the Respondents, based on the proposal(s) submitted, which shall demonstrate competence, qualifications, experience, and pricing for Community Strategist. All responsive proposals will be examined, evaluated, ranked and scored by an Evaluation Committee.

B. Proposal(s) that do not conform to the instructions or which do not address all the services as specified may be eliminated from consideration; however, PCCA reserves the right to accept proposal(s) if it is determined to be in the best interest of PCCA.

C. While PCCA appreciates a brief, straightforward, concise reply, the proposer must fully understand that the evaluation is based on the totality of information provided.

Accuracy, organization, and completeness are essential. Omissions, ambiguous and

Section 5 13 | P a g e equivocal statements may be construed against the Respondent. The submitted proposal may be incorporated into any contract which results from this procurement packet, and respondents are cautioned not to make claims or statements it is not prepared to commit to contractually. Failure of the Respondent to meet such claims will result in a requirement that the respondent provide resources necessary to meet submitted claims, without extending an additional cost to PCCA.

D. PCCA Compliance & Assurance Department may initiate discussions with selected

Respondents; however, Respondents may not initiate discussions. Respondents shall not contact any PCCA personnel during the procurement process without the express permission from PCCA Compliance & Assurance Department. PCCA Compliance & Assurance Department may disqualify any Respondent who has made visits and/or contacted PCCA personnel or distributed any literature without authorization from PCCA Compliance & Assurance Department.

E. All correspondence relating to this procurement from the advertisement to the award shall be sent to PCCA Compliance & Assurance Department. PCCA Compliance & Assurance staff shall coordinate all presentations and/or meetings between PCCA and the Respondent(s) relating to this solicitation.

F. Selected Respondents may be expected to make a presentation and demonstration to the Evaluation Committee. In addition to a presentation, Respondents may be expected to make a presentation and demonstration to the Port Commissioners.

Respondent’s RFP, presentations and evaluations may develop into negotiating sessions with Respondent(s) as selected by the Evaluation Committee.

5.05 Comparative Evaluation Criteria

The following criteria will be applied to those proposals which have met the minimum requirements:

A. Proposed Cost and Fees – 40 points

1. The proposer shall clearly itemize and provide a list of all fees to cover the requested scope of work and deliverables. The proposer shall also provide an hourly rate for any additional work which is not included in the scope of work.

2. It is not the intent of PCCA to limit innovative solutions by dollar constraints, but rather to determine which proposal has the potential of providing the best value for the services required.

3. The fee proposal shall clearly set forth the basis for the time and fees to be charged for the work proposed and at a minimum should contain the following information:

a. Estimate of the number of hours to complete the scope of services

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b. Hourly rates for performing such services as indicated above

c. Any and all costs associated with this study including any tools to be used.

d. Total firm fixed cost to complete this study, including a payment schedule

B. Qualifications, Relevant Experience, Proposed Team and Organization & References –30 points

1. This section of the proposal shall establish the ability of the Proposer to satisfactorily perform the required work by citing experience in performing work of a similar nature and complexity to the Scope of Work shown in Section 6 of this RFP; proven competence in the services to be provided;

strength and stability of the firm; staffing capability; current workload; track record of meeting schedules on similar system implementations and supportive client references.

2. This section of the Proposal shall also establish the adequacy and experience of the Proposer’s staff (including subconsultants) to provide the requested services, as well as to identify and describe the experience of key personnel who will be assigned to the project.

C. Technical Approach, Detailed Work Plan & Quality Assurance and Control

Program – 30 points

1. The Proposer shall demonstrate the Proposer’s understanding of PCCA’s needs and requirements of a community workforce implementation and its capabilities and provide a work plan to exhibit the Proposer’s comprehensive knowledge of and approach to conducting a strategic solution to meet or exceed the requested scope of work.

2. This section of the Proposer’s response to the RFP should also provide

PCCA with a detailed explanation of the Proposer’s Quality Assurance and Control Program. The Proposer should demonstrate and present the information in a concise, efficient, and effective manner while adequately addressing the selection criteria.

5.06 Negotiation Process

The committee will determine whether acceptance of the most favorable initial proposal without discussion is appropriate, or whether interviews and/or discussions should be conducted with Proposers that fall within the competitive range.

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A. Negotiations

PCCA reserves the right to negotiate directly with the highest ranked Proposer or with each Proposer whose proposal falls within the overall competitive range. Each Proposer remaining within the overall competitive range at the close of negotiations may be allowed to submit a final supplement called a “best and final offer.” PCCA reserves the right to negotiate all elements that comprise the successful Proposer’s response to ensure that the best possible consideration be afforded to all concerned.

B. Best and Final Offer (BAFO)

1. All Proposers that submit best and final offers will be evaluated by the committee, or designated committee members, based upon those best and final offers.

2. PCCA expects to conduct negotiations with Proposer’s representatives authorized to contractually obligate the respondent with an offer.

3. If Respondent is unable to agree to contract terms and conditions, PCCA reserves the right to terminate contract negotiations with that respondent and initiate negotiations with the next Respondent. The contract will be awarded to that responsible offeror(s) whose offer, conforming to the solicitation, offers Best Value to PCCA, price and other factors considered.

4. After negotiation of terms, staff will present its recommendation to the Port

Commission for the most advantageous for recommendation shall be presented to Commissioners’ for consideration and approval of award of the contract. The Port Commission reserve the right to accept a waiver if a Respondent does not meet all competencies, qualifications, and/or experience.

5. No award can be made until approved by Port Commission. Neither

RFP, the Respondent’s presentation, nor an evaluation by the Evaluation Committee obligate PCCA to award a contract for the services. Progress toward this end is solely at the discretion of PCCA and may be terminated at any time prior to execution of an agreement.

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SECTION 6

SCOPE OF WORK

6.02 Scope of Work

A. Partner Coordination & Agreement Development

On the Port’s behalf, the Consultant shall coordinate directly with grant partners and related regional workforce stakeholders. Responsibilities include:

1. Schedule and conduct working meetings with grant partners including

Ingleside ISD, Del Mar College, Texas A&M University–Corpus Christi, and Craft Training Center

2. Coordinate meetings with industry partners and relevant regional CTE programs

3. Gather program information, capabilities, and workforce alignment opportunities from each partner

4. Maintain partner communication records and action item tracking

5. Prepare meeting agendas, distribute materials and document meeting notes

6. Maintain partner contact lists and communication logs

7. Track partner implementation timelines and benchmarks

8. Serve as day-to-day coordination contact between PCCA and participating partners

9. Support budget tracking documentation (non-fiscal authority role)

10. Provide general program administrative support

B. Pathway Development & Program Design Support

The Consultant shall facilitate the development of structured workforce pathways under the PORT-Able Pathways Initiative. Responsibilities include:

1. Analyze information on existing regional education and training programs

2. Identify gaps in career pathway availability and progression

3. Facilitate collaboration sessions with subject matter experts and educators

4. Collaborate with Human Resources and Industry Partners to define stackable pathway models connecting school programs, certifications, and careers

5. Develop recommendations for enhancing existing programs to better align with workforce pathways

6. Collaborate with Human Resources and Industry Partners to identify opportunities for adult learner training and career transition pathways

7. Continually refine the strategy in coordination with PCCA leadership

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C. Learning Lab Alignment Support

The Consultant shall support integration of the PORT-Able Learning Lab into the broader pathway framework. Responsibilities include:

1. Coordinate with education partners to align lab experiences with available training programs

2. Identify follow-up opportunities for students after lab participation

3. Assist in development of pathway guidance materials tied to the lab experience

4. Track participation and connection points between the lab and education partners

D. Workforce Implementation & Tracking

The Consultant shall support implementation and monitoring of workforce pathway activities. Responsibilities include:

1. Track partner progress toward established benchmarks

2. Maintain participation tracking data across programs

3. Provide regular progress updates to the PCCA Grants Manager and

Community Relations Manager

4. Maintain documentation supporting grant progress reporting

E. Coordination & Reporting

The Consultant shall provide ongoing coordination and reporting support.

Responsibilities include:

1. Provide routine progress updates to PCCA staff

2. Maintain meeting summaries and action item logs

3. Prepare grant progress documentation

4. Develop periodic status summaries of pathway implementation progress

F. Deliverables

The Consultant shall provide the following deliverables:

1. Partner coordination meeting documentation

2. Partner implementation timelines and benchmarks

3. Regional pathway inventory and gap analysis summary

4. Ongoing progress tracking updates

5. Grant documentation support materials

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G. Performance Period

The initial contract term shall consist of a development and implementation planning phase anticipated to last approximately nine (9) to twelve (12) months from the Notice to Proceed.

During this period, the Consultant will complete stakeholder coordination, program framework design, and initial implementation of alignment activities described in this Scope of Work.

At the conclusion of the development phase, the Port of Corpus Christi Authority may, at its discretion, extend the agreement to support continued implementation, monitoring, and refinement of the PORT-Able Pathways Initiative.

H. Measurable Expectations & Performance Standards

The Consultant’s performance will be evaluated based on timely progress toward implementation readiness of the PORT-Able Pathways Initiative. Performance expectations include, but are not limited to:

1. Partner Coordination

a. Establish regular coordination meetings with all primary grant partners on a monthly basis.

b. Develop documented implementation agreements outlining partner roles and responsibilities

c. Maintain organized records of communications and action items

2. Pathway Development

a. Produce a regional pathway inventory and gap analysis

b. Develop a structured program framework connecting awareness, education, training, and employment

c. Establish timelines and benchmarks for participating partners

3. Implementation Planning

a. Demonstrate alignment between education programs, training providers, and workforce opportunities

b. Support integration of the learning lab into the program framework.

4. Tracking & Reporting

a. Provide monthly written progress updates to PCCA staff

b. Maintain participation and progress tracking documentation

c. Support grant documentation readiness

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5. Professional Coordination

a. Maintain regular on-site presence as specified in the Scope of Work

b. Coordinate effectively with PCCA staff and partners

c. Meet agreed-upon project milestones and deadlines

Failure to demonstrate reasonable progress toward these expectations may result in corrective action requests, scope adjustment, or termination in accordance with contract provisions.

I. Required Qualifications

Consultants shall demonstrate experience and capacity to perform hands-on program coordination and implementation services similar in scope and complexity to those described in this RFP. The Port seeks a consultant capable of operational execution and partner facilitation rather than advisory-only services. Minimum qualifications include:

1. Experience & Background

a. Demonstrated experience coordinating multi-partner programs involving educational institutions, training providers, and industry stakeholders

b. Experience working in workforce development, career pathway programs, education partnerships, or related initiatives

c. Experience facilitating meetings and managing ongoing stakeholder collaboration

d. Experience developing implementation plans, timelines, and measurable program outcomes

e. Experience tracking program participation and preparing progress documentation

2. Program Implementation Capability

a. Ability to organize and manage multiple concurrent workstreams and partner relationships

b. Ability to translate stakeholder input into structured program frameworks

c. Experience coordinating curriculum alignment, training programs, internships, or apprenticeship pathways preferred

d. Ability to conduct in-person meetings and maintain an on-site presence within the Coastal Bend region

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3. Communication & Coordination Skills

a. Strong facilitation and interpersonal communication skills

b. Ability to work with educators, industry representatives, and public sector staff

c. Ability to document meetings, maintain records, and provide clear written updates

d. Ability to manage schedules, timelines, and follow-up actions across multiple organizations

4. Preferred Qualifications

a. Experience working with public sector or grant-funded programs

b. Familiarity with Career & Technical Education (CTE) systems or community college workforce programs

c. Experience supporting maritime, industrial, manufacturing, or technical workforce initiatives

d. Knowledge of the Coastal Bend regional workforce landscape

Section 7 21 | P a g e

SECTION 7

INSURANCE REQUIREMENTS

Without limiting the indemnity obligations or liabilities of Consultant or its insurers, Consultant agrees to carry and maintain at its sole expense policies of insurance ("the Policies") of the types and in the minimum amounts as follows:

TYPE OF INSURANCE MINIMUM LIMITS

A. Workers' Compensation Statutory Employer's Liability $1,000,000 Each Accident $1,000,000 Policy Limit for Disease $1,000,000 Each Employee for Disease

B. Commercial General Liability $1,000,000 per Occurrence $2,000,000 Aggregate

The CGL Policy will provide contractual liability coverage at the aforementioned limits.

C. Business Automobile Liability $1,000,000 CSL / Each accident

Automobile liability insurance coverage will include all owned, non-owned, and hired vehicles. If vehicles are used in connection with this project.

D. Professional Liability $1,000,000 per claim/Aggregate

Consultant will procure and maintain professional liability insurance for protection from claims arising out of performance of its Services under this Contract caused by any error, omission, or act for which the Consultant is legally liable. Policies written on a claims-made basis shall have an extended reporting period of at least two (2) years beyond termination of the Contract.

Each policy, except Professional Liability, must contain an endorsement to the effect that the issuer waives any claim or right of subrogation to recover against the Authority, its Port Commissioners, officers and employees (“Authority Parties”). Additionally, the Authority Parties shall be designated as an Additional Insured either by a blanket additional insured or a specific endorsement on all policies, except for Worker’s Compensation, and Employer’s Liability, and Professional Liability. In the event that the work of Consultant’s employees fall within the purview of the United States Longshore and Harbor Workers’ Compensation Act, the Jones Act or the Federal Employer’s Liability Act, Consultant shall extend its insurance coverage to provide insurance against the liabilities imposed under the applicable Act or Acts.

Each policy, except Workers’ Compensation and Professional Liability, must contain an endorsement that the policy is primary to any other insurance available to the Additional Insureds with respect to claims arising under this Contract.

Section 7 22 | P a g e

Without limiting any of the other obligations or liabilities of Consultant, Consultant shall require each Subcontractor performing work under the Contract, at Subcontractor’s own expense, to maintain during the term of the Contract, the same stipulated minimum insurance as shown herein. As an alternative, Consultant may include its Subcontractors as additional insureds on its own coverage as prescribed under these requirements. Consultant’s certificate of insurance shall note in such event that Subcontractors are included as additional insureds and that Consultant agrees to provide workers’ compensation for Subcontractors and their employees. Consultant shall obtain and monitor the certificates of insurance from each Subcontractor in order to assure compliance with the insurance requirements. Consultant must retain the certificates of insurance for the duration of the Contract plus five (5) years and shall have the responsibility of enforcing these insurance requirements among its Subcontractors. Authority shall be entitled, upon request and without expense, to receive copies of these certificates

The minimum insurance required may be increased periodically upon request by Authority to commercially reasonable limits. The company writing each of the Policies must possess a current rating with A.M. Best Company of at least “A-, VII”. Consultant’s liability shall not be limited to the specified amounts of insurance required herein.

Section 8 23 | P a g e

SECTION 8

GRANT REQUIREMENTS

• Attachment A – EPA General Terms and Conditions

• Attachment B – Federally Required Contract Clauses

• EPA Certifications

ATTACHMENT A

EPA GENERAL TERMS AND CONDITIONS

This project is funded through EPA's Clean Ports Program: Zero-Emission Technology Deployment Competition. As such, the Bidder must comply with the following EPA General Terms and Conditions.

Revision History:

The Environmental Protection Agency’s General Terms and Conditions are published and become effective October 1st at the start of the federal fiscal year. Any additions, revisions, or changes to the terms and conditions after October 1 will be summarized below.

T&C Number Effective Date Description of Changes #54 4/03/2025 Added new T&C on Federal anti-discrimination laws.

#3 4/03/2025 Added a new termination provision if the award no longer effectuates the program goals or agency priorities.

#27 4/03/2025 Updated pursuant to a class exception to subparts of 40 CFR Part

33 issued on March 17, 2025.

#8, 42, 47 4/03/2025 Revised in accordance with administration priorities.

#41 4/26/2025 Added a new T&C on the procurement of synthetic nucleic acids and benchtop nucleic acid synthesis equipment.

#15 3/12/2025 The Federal Subaward Reporting System (FSRS) was decommissioned and replaced fully by the System for Award Management (SAM.gov), all references to FSRS have been replaced with SAM.gov to reflect this change.

#18 11/26/2024 Added language on the de minimis rate for grants amended to incorporate the October 2024 Revisions to 2 CFR Part 200.

Table of Contents Preface

Financial Information

Selected Items of Cost

Reporting and Additional Post-Award Requirements

Programmatic General Terms and Conditions

Public Policy Requirements

Environmental Protection Agency

General Terms and Conditions Effective October 1, 2024 https://www.epa.gov/grants/rain-2025-g02 https://www.epa.gov/grants/rain-2025-g02

Preface

1. Introduction

(a) These terms and conditions are in addition to the assurances and certifications made as part of the award and terms, conditions, and restrictions reflected on the official assistance award document. Recipients must review their official award document for additional administrative and programmatic requirements. Failure to comply with the general terms and conditions outlined below and those directly reflected on the official assistance award document may result in enforcement actions as outlined in 2 CFR 200.339 and 2 CFR 200.340.

(b) If the EPA General Terms and Conditions have been revised, EPA will update the terms and conditions when it provides additional funding (incremental or supplemental) prior to the end of the period of performance of this agreement. The recipient must comply with the revised terms and conditions after the effective date of the EPA action that leads to the revision. Revised terms and conditions do not apply to the recipient’s expenditures of EPA funds or activities the recipient carries out prior to the effective date of the EPA action. EPA will inform the recipient of revised terms and conditions in the action adding additional funds.

2. Uniform Administrative Requirements, Cost Principles, and Audit Requirements for Federal

Awards This award is subject to the requirements of the Uniform Administrative Requirements, Cost Principles and Audit Requirements for Federal Awards; Title 2 CFR Part 200 and 2 CFR Part 1500. 2 CFR 1500.2, Adoption of 2 CFR Part 200, states the EPA adopts the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) guidance Uniform Administrative Requirements, Cost Principles, and Audit Requirements for Federal Awards to Non-Federal Entities (subparts A through F of 2 CFR Part 200), as supplemented by 2 CFR Part 1500, as the EPA policies and procedures for financial assistance administration. 2 CFR Part 1500 satisfies the requirements of 2 CFR 200.110(a) and gives regulatory effect to the OMB guidance as supplemented by 2 CFR Part 1500. This award is also subject to applicable requirements contained in EPA programmatic regulations located in 40 CFR Chapter 1 Subchapter B.

3. Termination (Updated 4/03/2025)

Consistent with 2 CFR 200.340, EPA may terminate this award in part or its entirety:

(a) If a recipient or subrecipient fails to comply with the terms and conditions of the award, including statutory or regulatory requirements;

(b) With the consent of the recipient when both the recipient and the EPA agree upon the termination conditions, which include the effective date and, in the case of partial termination, the portion to be terminated;

(c) If a recipient sends the EPA a written notification of the reasons for such termination, the effective date, and in the case of partial termination, the portion to be terminated; however, if the EPA determines that the remaining portion of the Federal award will not accomplish the https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-2/subtitle-A/chapter-II/part-200/subpart-D/subject-group-ECFR86b76dde0e1e9dc/section-200.339 https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-2/subtitle-A/chapter-II/part-200/subpart-D/subject-group-ECFR86b76dde0e1e9dc/section-200.340 https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-2/subtitle-A/chapter-II/part-200?toc=1 https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-2/subtitle-B/chapter-XV/part-1500 https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-2/subtitle-A/chapter-II/part-200/subpart-B/section-200.110#p-200.110(a) https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-2/subtitle-A/chapter-II/part-200/subpart-D/subject-group-ECFR86b76dde0e1e9dc/section-200.340 purposes for which the Federal award was made, the EPA may terminate the award in its entirety; or

(d) Pursuant to the programmatic terms and conditions specified in the Federal award.

(e) By the EPA or pass-through entity to the extent authorized by law, if an award no longer effectuates the program goals or agency priorities. This provision applies to all new awards and funding amendments (incremental and supplemental) made on or after April 3, 2025.

Financial Information

4. Reimbursement Limitation EPA’s financial obligations to the recipient are limited by the amount of federal funding awarded to date as reflected on the award document. If the recipient incurs costs in anticipation of receiving additional funds from EPA, it does so at its own risk. See 2 CFR 1500.9.

5. Automated Standard Application Payments (ASAP) and Proper Payment Draw Down Electronic Payments. Recipients must be enrolled or enroll in the Automated Standard Application for Payments (ASAP) system to receive payments under EPA financial assistance agreements unless:

• EPA grants a recipient-specific exception;

• The assistance program has received a waiver from this requirement;

• The recipient is exempt from this requirement under 31 CFR 208.4; or,

• The recipient is a fellowship recipient pursuant to 40 CFR Part 46.

EPA will not make payments to recipients until the ASAP enrollment is completed or if recipients fall under one of the above categories. EPA’s Research Triangle Park Finance Center (RTPFC) will initiate the ASAP enrollment based on the key contact information on the grant application. The “payee” on the key contacts form will receive an email from ASAP indicating the steps required for completing the enrollment. Recipients may request exceptions using the procedures below.

Under this payment mechanism, the recipient initiates an electronic payment request online via ASAP, which is approved or rejected based on the amount of available funds authorized by EPA in the recipient’s ASAP account. Approved payments are credited to the account at the financial institution of the recipient organization set up by the recipient during the ASAP enrollment process.

Additional information concerning ASAP and enrollment can be obtained by contacting the EPA RTPFC, at rtpfc-grants@epa.gov, or by visiting: https://www.fiscal.treasury.gov/asap/.

EPA will grant exceptions to the ASAP enrollment requirement only in situations in which the recipient demonstrates to EPA that receiving payment via ASAP places an undue administrative or financial management burden on the recipient or EPA determines that granting the waiver is in the public interest. Recipients may request an exception to the requirement by following the procedures specified in RAIN-2018-G06-R.

https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-2/subtitle-B/chapter-XV/part-1500#1500.9…