Attachment 3 - State of Operations.pdf

Transportation Security Administration Office of Security Operations

Operational and Technical Training

State of Operations Specialized Security Training (SST) Program

August 2008

RFP HSTS05-08-R-OSO900

Attachment 3

Table of Contents

A. Background ..………………………………………………………………………….. Page 3

B. Purpose ………………………………………………………………………………… Page 3

C. Technical Training Objectives ………………………………………………………. Page 3

1. Program Integration

a. Objectives …………………………………………………………… Page 3

b. Quality Assurance …………………………………………………… Page 5

2. Curriculum Development ……………………………………………………. Page 6

a. Curriculum Development Efforts – General ……………………… Page 6

b. Curriculum Development Efforts – Program Specific …………. Page 8

3. Federal Flight Deck Officer Program ………………………………………. Page 14

a. Technical Objectives ………………………………………………. Page 14

b. Logistics ……………………………………………………………… Page 17

c. Technical Assistance ………………………………………………. Page 18

4. Customer Service Support Center …………………………………………. Page 22

5. Security Training, Operations and Program Support ……………………. Page 25

6. Threat Image Projection ……………………………………………………. Page 27

a. Technical Requirements …………………………………………… Page 28

b. Technical and Operational Performance Support ………………. Page 29

c. Release of Technical Data ………………………………………… Page 29

d. Reporting …………………………………………………………….. Page 29

7. Image Development Center, Training Aids and Materials ……………….. Page 31

a. Image Development Center and Image Development ……………Page 32

b. Image Development for Operational and Technical Training …….Page 36

c. Image Development and Test Support for OHC …………………. Page 38

d. Training Kits/Aids Development and Maintenance ………………. Page 39

e. Learning Technologies Support Services …………………………. Page 42

D. Map of TSA Federalized Airports ……………………………………………………. Page 46

A. Background The Aviation and Transportation Security Act (ATSA Public Law 107-71) requires the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) to develop, implement, and manage training programs for the nation’s transportation security screening workforce. TSA continues to make great strides in developing new training and responding to the needs of the diverse TSA field operations and heavily relies on contractor support to accomplish its mission. The dynamic nature of training requirements demands focused and capable support services to ensure the successful operation, management, and control of the TSA training mission.

TSA employs a security screening workforce of more than 45,000 full-time, part-time and seasonal personnel at more than 450 airports to protect our nation’s transportation network.

TSA’s Office of Security Operations established the Specialized Security Training (SST) program in the Operational and Technical Training Division to provide training that enables those personnel to effectively conduct passenger and baggage screening operations.

Specifically, the SST program develops and maintains curricula; develops and maintains training tools and materials; plans and schedules training courses; provides logistics and other operational support for training; delivers training through classroom and online channels; tests trainees for learning proficiency; and evaluates and monitors the training provided.

Beyond this requirement, the training provided under the SST program must keep pace with a changing threat environment; accommodate changing student populations; incorporate new screening tools, techniques, and procedures that might become available; and provide instruction that may be necessary to support effective security operations across all modes of public transportation.

B. Purpose This document provides an overview of the current state of operations of the Specialized Security Training (SST) program. It is not illustrative of where TSA envisions the future state of operations to migrate to, but represents the baseline status of the processes used today.

C. Technical Training Objectives

1. Program Integration The contractor assists SST’s goals and objectives (i.e.,”…. to develop and deliver technical training that helps enable the TSA workforce, and others involved in transportation security, to perform their duties in protecting the nation’s transportation systems”). The program integration function ensures the appropriate delivery and monitoring of essential program and business operations management. Work includes overall program and contract management; quality assurance; business operations; and program management support services. This section defines the baseline requirements necessary to ensure continuity of operations, program infrastructure, data reporting, and quality assurance training program objectives.

a. Objectives

General Program Integration The contractor manages its performance on the contract to assist TSA in meeting their goals and objectives. The contractor develops, maintains, and updates integration management processes and plans as necessary.

Project Integration System Management processes and plans that the contractor develops, maintains, and updates are incorporated into a SST Project Integration System. This Project Integration System includes the following process areas:

Program Planning and Control Task Order Oversight and Integration Quality Assurance Configuration Management Risk Management Security, Contract, and Subcontract Management.

Proposal Support Services Supplier Control Financial Management Information Technology and Data Management Facility and Government Furnished Equipment oversight

Program Plans The contractor maintains, updates, and implements existing program plans that include a:

Program Integration Plan Quality Assurance Plan Staffing Plan Configuration Management Plan Data Management Plan Resources/Facilities Plan (that includes a Crisis Management Plan) Risk Management Plan Cost Management Plan

Promoting SST Program Objectives, Methods, and Tools The contractor supports the development and implementation of plans, processes and activities (e.g., presentations, reports, and data calls) that communicate and promote SST objectives, methods, and tools to TSA workforce that includes executives, managers, supervisors and employees. This includes coordination of initiatives with interdepartmental and interagency customers; and requires the contractor to work collaboratively with other contractors, government agencies, and business partners to ensure project and or deliverable success.

In addition to meeting program objectives, the contractor consistently takes steps to understand SST’s priority business issues and promotes SST training opportunities within TSA and to external customers, and ensures its products and services deliver tangible and meaningful business benefits.

Program Integration Status Reports Weekly Program Integration/Operation meetings are held to discuss current program issues.

The contractor creates status reports that address program issues, impacts and resolutions.

Examples are:

Technical reports that provide the supporting information and documentation necessary to make a determination on possible changes or contract modifications.

Technical reports that increase the effectiveness of projects ("Lessons learned").

Technical reports on broad project management issues that involve multiple projects

("White Papers").

Technical reports that include more specialized or detailed assessments of cost estimates and project schedules.

Technical reports that provide the supporting information on a risk analysis of the project’s cost estimate or documentation necessary to make a determination on contract task modifications

Regional Area Training Representatives The contractor engages in a partnership with SST in an open, collaborative and customer-oriented relationship. To assist in achieving this goal, the contractor’s Area Training Representatives (ATRs) proactively engage field participation with SST’s program objectives.

ATRs maintain communication with airport personnel on all training concerns and questions regarding training class logistics, Instructors, and equipment.

b. Quality Assurance (QA)

Contract Level QA Program Integration The contractor implements a QA program across all operational areas that addresses project specific needs; effectively identifies deficiencies and trends; identifies quality issues and noteworthy practices; and transfers best practices to other projects or areas of work.

Task Order Level QA Program Oversight The contractor’s Quality Assurance Team manages QA programs and oversees and coordinates the individual Field Staff QA coordinators performing training audits; notifies TSA regarding QA issues; oversees the implementation of Quality Assurance and Quality Control Task Order activity; and assesses quality trends. To accomplish this, the contractor:

Provides QA management Oversees and coordinates the field staff QA coordinators and ensures training audit requirements are met.

Serves as the primary TSA point of contact regarding QA issues Provides oversight of the development, implementation, and maintenance of program

Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) Provides assessments

Reliability of Training Services The contractor monitors the consistency and reliability of training services and technical systems; and ensures results of every project or task deliverables are of sufficient and appropriate quality to meet customer requirements and objectives.

The contractor develops program-wide process improvements that support the mission and vision of SST. As process or quality control issues are identified, the contractor follows the Quality Management Plan’s continuous improvement process to ensure successful resolution and incorporation into best practices. The contractor uses Lean Six-sigma methodologies to identify processes for incorporation of improved and streamlined quality components into our current training service processes.

Audit Requirements for Training Programs The contractor ensures training audit requirements are met for each task. The contractor collects and maintains data on all individual instructors on a program wide level to identify performance trends and issues for analysis. This data may ultimately determine factors for improved training delivery. Data is collected from QA audits as well as the instructor remediation corrective action process. Appropriate deployment of the best instructors is based on certifications, location, and performance history data.

Training Quality Management System The contractor establishes, maintains, and administers an efficient quality management system for each individual type of training delivery (e.g., instructor-led, lab, blended). The contractor collects and maintains data on contractor instructors on a program wide level to identify performance trends and issues for analysis. Data shall be collected from the QA audits as well as the instructor remediation corrective action process. Appropriate deployment of the instructors is based on certifications, location, and performance history data.

Automated Multi-Level Training Assessment Program (AMTAP) The contractor evaluates End of Course evaluations submitted by TSA students (via AMTAP) to ensure the quality of contractor class instructors as well as Security Training Instructor (STI) class instructors. The contractor evaluates End of Course evaluations to ensure the quality of the curriculum presented to TSA students.

2. Curriculum Development The TSA’s Operations and Technical Training (OTT) Division consists of four program areas:

New Hire, Specialized, Recurrent, Regulatory Training Operations Branch and General Security Training. OTT is tasked through the SST program to develop training curriculum and associated materials (e.g. job aids, instructor led training, web-based and computer based training modules) to enhance the ability of the security screening workforce at various locations throughout the nation. The contractor provides the necessary subject matter expertise and curriculum development support to ensure the successful implementation and maintenance of TSA’s technical training program.

Government Furnished Equipment, Information and Property (GFE/GFI) OTT through the SST program provides the contractor with Training Development Standards, TSA Graphical User Interface (GUI) Templates and the TSA’s Online Learning Center (OLC) Content Developer Integration Guide to use in the development of all curriculum development efforts.

OTT through the SST program provides the contractor with Government Furnished Information (GFI) which includes: manuals, Standard Operating Procedures, training material, audio, graphics, video clips, still photographs, etc. The GFI is provided according to schedules created for each development effort, and created in joint collaboration with the government.

a. Curriculum Development Efforts – General Course content may include Security Sensitive Information (SSI) and must follow the TSA Sensitive Security Information (SSI) guidelines. The contractor begins development of efforts when the contractor receives technical direction. Delivery schedules for each project are determined based on complexity of the project and parallel efforts.

All new curriculum development efforts include the following components:

Front-end Analysis/Design Guide Initial (1st Draft) course development/Student Materials/Instructor Guides

Second (2nd) draft of course development/Student Materials/Instructor Guides Pilot and/or Operational Tryout. It is estimated that each new major development of eight hours or more will have pilots and/or Operational Tryouts.

Course Descriptions Course Maps Tests Test Maps Curriculum Reviews On-the-Job Training (OJT) Guidance and Checklists Practical Lab Demonstrations Training Curriculum Updates (TCU) Content Change Log Configuration Management documents Final submission of course development Job Knowledge Checks Recurrent Training Interim Update

OTT through the SST program supports the following training programs:

New Hire (Basic Screener) Emerging Technologies Regulatory Specialized Security Intermodal Management Technical Training Recurrent that could be web-based or computer-based

BAO

BDO

FSD

STTC

LTSO

The contractor provides curriculum development support for new and existing Instructor-Led Training (ILT) and Web-Based Training (WBT) that include such tasks as:

Impact Analysis may include Engineering Change Proposals (ECP), Requests for Deviation (RFDs) and SOPs. The initial Impact Analysis provides an overview of the effects of the change on the curriculum and is general in nature. A detailed Impact Analysis provides specific detail of changes to the curriculum. WBT/CBT Impact Analysis includes video, audio, text and graphics changes. TSA will review and provide a response to all Detailed Impact Analyses. Once the impact analysis is approved, the contractor begins editing the curriculum

Maintaining current and historical information on the ECP/RFD Process Configuration Management for all training developers

Curriculum Development Projects

The contractor analyzes, designs, develops, implements and maintains training curricula and services in support of the following curriculum development efforts:

Emerging Technologies Basic Screener Training/New Hire Training (BST/NHTP) Program Curricula and Training

Curriculum Updates

Recurrent Training and Recurrent Training Interim Updates (RTIU) On Screen Alarm Resolution Protocol (OSARP) Regulatory Inspector Specialized Security Training Checkpoint Evolution Screening Passengers by Observation Technique (SPOT) Bomb Detection Officer (BDO) Bomb Appraisal Officer (BAO) Security Training Instructor (STI) Travel Document Checker Federal Security Director (FSD) Academy Management Technical Training Supervisor Technical Training Course Image Library: The contractor provides support for maintaining a searchable image storage and retrieval service on a contractor server based on established parameters.

Maintenance support includes cataloging, indexing, and uploading up to 5000 initial images

Train-the-Trainer courses that include: classroom management; instructor led concepts;

facilitation skills; practical skills; shadow teaching period; and co-teach teaching period

b. Curriculum Development Efforts – Program Specific The contractor provides curriculum developers on a daily basis to evaluate, analyze, design, develop, implement and manage training products and services in support of specialized security training. Curriculum developers create and revise existing lesson plans to meet emergent and new training requirements and keep technical information current.

All on-site work projects are initiated by the requestor/ Program Manager via a work order request form, which must be approved by the SST program. Once approved, the Lead On-Site Developer meets with the requestor to complete a project development form. The completed form is sent electronically from the Lead On-Site Developer to the SST program for approval to proceed.

The contractor designs and carries out methodologies aligned with specific, predetermined training objectives, incorporate training content, and plan training delivery yielding a cost effective product for the government.

The contractor uses media that is compatible with the TSA’s Learning Management System as required by the curriculum development efforts. All curriculums produced by the curriculum developers will be reviewed and approved by TSA prior to implementation.

Program Specific – New Hire Training Program The contractor updates, enhances and maintains existing curricula and related classroom materials for existing training programs. The contractor provides curriculum development Subject Matter Expert (SME) support to attend Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) training.

TSA establishes the clearances for curriculum development SMEs to attend required OEM and airport site training. If requested by TSA, the contractor develops briefings to fit airport operational needs (e.g. 30 minute hand-wanding, pat-down, AMTAP or bag search refresher modules).

Program Specific – Emerging Technologies The contractor provides curriculum development support for the development of field testing “pilot” and training materials for emerging screening equipment technologies that includes the following new screening systems.

Whole Body Imager Electronic Boarding Pass Scanning System Automated Explosives Detection System for Carry-On Items Advanced Technology Carry-On Baggage Screening Systems Cast and Prosthesis Scanner Bottled Liquids Scanner Shoe Scanner

A-USP

Threat Image Projection (TIP) Ready (TRX) X-ray System Upgrades Security Technology Integrated Program (STIP) Upgrades

This support enables TSA to identify critical training requirements during the development, testing and deployment phases of each new screening system. Identifying requirements during the development phases is especially critical for OTT to prevent post-deployment contract modifications. Piloting of these new systems takes place at TSA Headquarters, the Department of Homeland Security Science and Technology Security Laboratory (TSL) and airports throughout the nation.

The contractor provides curriculum development Subject Matter Expert (SME) support to attend Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) training.

Program Specific – Checkpoint Evolution (PAX 2.0) The contractor develops, updates and maintains existing curricula and related classroom materials. Activities include:

Modularized PAX 2.0 Training Review and editing of materials Participation OEM training at two (2) different sites Field testing (“pilot”) new checkpoint concepts Intel Video Provide technical expertise in editing and revising training course material upon conclusion of pilot

Program Specific – Train-The-Trainer Programs The contractor updates, enhances and maintains existing curricula and related classroom materials for the following existing training programs:

Basic Screener Training/New Hire Training Program Screening Passengers by Observation Technique(SPOT) On Screen Alarm Resolution Protocol (OSARP) Bomb Appraisal Officer (BAO) Travel Document Checker (TDC) Supervisor Technical Training Instructional Presentation Skills

Program Specific – New Hire Training Program (NHTP) The contractor updates, enhances and maintains existing curricula and related classroom materials for:

Phase 1 – Orientation (Web-based Training) Phase 2 – Classroom Training Phase 3 – Lesson Segment

The contractor develops a Train-the-Trainer course that does not exceed 20 hours in length for the NHTP that includes the following items:

Identifying challenges in teaching the NHTP curriculum Helpful hints tool kit

The contractor develops a Train-the-Trainer training course for the Checked Baggage/EDS/OSARP curriculum that does not exceed 24 hours in length for the following equipment:

L-3

CTX

CT-80

Emerging Technologies

Program Specific – Regulatory Training Program materials for existing training program that includes:

On the job Training (OJT) Monitor Training Course Transportation Security Inspector (ASI) Basic Course International Assessments and Inspection Basic Training Surface Transportation Security Inspection Basic Training

Program Specific – On Screen Alarm Resolution Protocol (OSARP) materials for existing training program that includes:

Piloting the Train-the-Trainer and Test Administrator training classes for the EDS/OSARP CTX, L3 machines and others as they emerge

It is anticipated that one class will be conducted at nine pilot training locations. Three classes/sites for each equipment type (CTX-9000, CTX 5500/2500, and L3)

The contractor develops curriculum updates that include up to four software and up to four hardware upgrades associated with approved emerging technologies

Program Specific – Federal Security Director (FSD) Academy The contractor provides ongoing support for the instructor-led FSD Academy. The contractor’s curriculum developers update and enhance existing course materials and develop new materials as needed that include the following:

Lesson Plans Instructor Guides Participant Guides Handouts Slide presentations

Logistical support is required for the reproduction of course materials, classroom computers and videotaping of classroom presentations as necessary. It is anticipated that two pilot classes will be conducted at one location. The class location is secured by TSA and is anticipated to be the same location for both classes.

Program Specific – Supervisor Technical Training The contractor provides ongoing support for Supervisor Technical Training. The contractor’s curriculum developers update and enhance existing course materials and develop new materials as needed that include the following:

Lesson Plans Instructor Guides Participant Guides Handouts Slide presentations

Program Specific – Screening Passengers by Observation Techniques (SPOT) The contractor develops, updates, enhances and maintains existing curricula and related classroom materials for

SPOT recurrent WBT/CBT training that is TSA Online Learning Center (OLC) compatible and does not exceed two hours in length.

TSA Watch WBT training that consists of video and graphics, does not exceed 2 hours in length and two hours of maintenance.

Program Specific – New Training Courses The contractor provides up to three curriculum development efforts associated with transportation security efforts. For example:

One 40 hour course One 16 hour course One 8 hour course

Program Specific – Web-Based Training (WBT)/Computer Based Training (CBT) materials. The contractor provides SME support to maintain existing WBT’s. The contractor develops Level III Interactive web-based (WBT) and computer based (CBT) training courses that involve the student as an active participant making a variety of responses using varied techniques (see below).

TSA OTT Level III

Interactions Interaction Outcomes

Performance- based Involves realistic decision making and consequences in selected aspects of work environment

Feedback is specific to multi-level path chosen and offers information specific to that set of choices.

May not involve “correct” or “incorrect” but less preferable or most preferable answer choices with full explanations, including some potential consequences of less than optimal choices.

Additional Characteristics

Includes all characteristics described in Level II;

Interactions include the capability for limited real-time simulation of performance in the operational setting;

Simulation may include animations and elaborate images or complex workplace challenges, without full multi-dimensional realism; it may involve simulated representations of aspects of “reality” through a series of still images or video segments;

Involves engaging the learner in a simulation that mirrors aspects of the work situation with key stimuli and consequences likely to be found in the actual environment;

Includes interactions at all cognitive levels: knowledge, comprehension, application, analysis, synthesis, evaluation, as well as preparing students to achieve affective and psychomotor objectives that may be goals of the training.

All WBT/CBT courses are Shareable Content Object Reference Model (SCORM) conformant.

Scenario/situational pages may incorporate two or more media elements.

Feedback/remediation pages where actual teaching will occur. All deliverables use a TSA/Contractor document inspection system. Narrations on the WBTs are done by a professional service when deemed necessary. The contractor interacts with TSA OTT Instructional Systems Specialists (ISS) during the process.

All courseware must successfully run on TSA’s Online Learning Center (OLC) which presently uses Plateau’s Learning Management System, version 5.5. This includes launching of courseware, full navigation and bookmarking where required and tracking of completion/status back to the OLC.

The contractor creates a CD of all WBT courseware for offline delivery to accommodate those locations that do not have high-speed access to the OLC. The following technical requirements are followed when developing or maintaining WBT/CBT courseware:

A media-rich design A teach/challenge format is used for content (e.g. SOP changes, new skills) A challenge/teach format is used to reinforce everyday skills (e.g. handwanding) A scenario/situational approach to meeting performance objectives Ensure design uniformity of design and operation across multiple vendors Scenario/situational pages incorporate two or more media elements In-depth feedback, remediation pages where the actual teaching will occur Feedback/remediation pages appear in separate non-modal windows and provides an on-screen way to close Feedback/remediation pages may provide a link to internal reference files which will appear in separate non-modal windows and should always provide an on-screen way to close

Content must not require internet access to any remote files (such as those residing on a contractor’s host server) since external internet access may not be available in some locations. The window may contain supplementary information including the location of external reference files but does not contain hyperlinks

Closing the correct feedback page activates the next button to enable learner to proceed to the next scenario/situation

Learners are not able to proceed to the next page without answering the given question/check on learning

User interfaces and screens incorporate the official TSA Graphical User Interface (GIU) Template and comply with the TSA developed OLC Content Developer Integration Guide

Content complies with TSA branding and style guide standards No horizontal scrolling and vertical scrolling except on feedback and remediation pages;

based on 800x600 screen resolution External cascading style sheet to layout text and other elements to enable dynamic scalability External Java Script to code file referenced by individual course pages A Shareable Content Object (SCO) is defined as one lesson for which the government defines as a module. Two or more modules comprise a component. The length of a SCO is not longer than 15 to 30 minutes depending upon course content

The contractor uses TSA employees as often as possible to demonstrate proper screening techniques; however the government recognizes that narration would be better served by using professionals. The contractor uses actors in 100% of the WBTs.

The contractor develops two hours of new WBT/CBT training. The contractor provides maintenance that includes the following training.

Hand Held Metal Detector Full Body Pat Down Bulk Item Pat Down Prohibited Items X-Ray Operator Hazardous Materials Explosives Trace Detection (ETD) Operations Explosives Detection System (EDS) Operations On Screen Alarm Resolution Protocol (OSARP) Radiation Safety Checkpoint/Checked Baggage Operations Improvised Explosives Device (IED) Web-Base Training Regulatory Supervisory Technical Training

SPOT

BAO

Travel Document Checker

Deliverables:

The contractor uses a Deliverable Acceptance Checklist for processing deliverable acceptances and/or rejections for the WBT/CBT Training Program. As part of the final deliverable, the contractor delivers all source material to include original image files, (i.e., Photoshop files used to create images, or effects archived on CD/ROM or DVD).

All hard copy and electronic deliverables are in the Microsoft Word 2003 format unless directed otherwise. All deliverables are exclusively owned by and for the exclusive use of the Government. The contractor has the use of the Government Furnished Information (GFI) that is used to develop training products, and has use of the GFI for the project duration. All GFI is returned upon request by the Government.

3. Federal Flight Deck Officer Program Title XIV of the Homeland Security Act of 2002, known as the Arming Pilots Against Terrorism Act or APATA, requires the Under Secretary of Transportation for Security (Administrator, TSA) to establish a program to train, equip, and deputize eligible volunteer pilots of commercial passenger air carriers as Federal law enforcement officers, to be known as Federal Flight Deck Officers (FFDOs), for the purpose of defending the flight decks of aircraft against acts of criminal violence and air piracy. The subsequent enactment of the Vision 100 – Century of Aviation Reauthorization Act in December 2003 expanded eligibility for the FFDO program to pilots of all-cargo aircraft, flight engineers, and navigators.

APATA requires FFDOs to re-qualify to carry their firearm at an interval that is determined by the TSA Administrator. Procedural requirements established for the program pursuant to APATA also mandate that FFDOs must successfully complete a program of recurrent training that includes instruction in firearms proficiency, use-of-force, judgmental pistol shooting, weapon retention, and other selected topics.

The contractor supports the FFDO Program in the areas of project management, Government Furnished Equipment, Information and Property, planning & scheduling, data management, logistics, and technical assistance in the areas of initial training, firearms re-qualification, and recurrent training.

a. Technical Objectives

Planning & Scheduling

Initial Training

The contractor uses existing tools (e.g., the Performance Assessment Network (PAN) “Dashboard” database system) to schedule eligible volunteers for initial FFDO training.

TSA provides contractor personnel access to database systems (e.g. FFDO Tracking System) in order for them to contact volunteers.

Eligible volunteers are scheduled for initial training classes on a first-come/first-served basis, on dates of their choosing. The contractor offers one initial training class per week, consisting of a maximum of 48 volunteers per class. There is no minimum class size.

All initial training classes are scheduled at the Federal Law Enforcement Training Center (FLETC) at Artesia, NM. The contractor does not schedule any initial training classes in weeks that have Federal Holidays, as identified by the U.S. Office of Personnel Management OPM):

(http://www.opm.gov/Operating_Status_Schedules/fedhol/2008.asp)

The FAMS FFDO Program Office makes all read-ahead training material available to scheduled volunteers via secure website.

Semi-annual Firearms Re-qualification – The contractor uses existing tools (e.g., Performance Assessment Network (PAN) Dashboard and/or the contractor’s FFDO Tracking System) to schedule FFDOs for firearms re-qualification

The contractor plans/schedules re-qualifications at twenty-seven locations approved by TSA/FAMS (see page 21). The contractor plans/schedules a minimum of 134 4-hour firearms re-qualification sessions per month. The contractor distributes these sessions between the approved TSA/FAMS re-qualification sites based on documented demand or other priority identified by the FFDO Program Office.

At the Anchorage and Honolulu locations, the contractor plans/schedules four sessions per quarter (two four-hour sessions, scheduled on two consecutive days) alternating between Anchorage and Honolulu each quarter. TSA/FAMS is the approving authority for all proposed schedules. Depending upon demand, the contractor may be required to increase the number of classes and/or re-qualification sites during a specific time period and/or at a specific location.

Each FFDO re-qualifies with his/her issued firearm during the second calendar quarter following their initial qualification and certification into the program, and every second calendar quarter thereafter. The contractor notifies each FFDO by e-mail sixty days and thirty days prior to the quarter in which they are due to re-qualify.

The contractor lists any extensions granted by the FAMS to FFDOs who are unable to attend or complete re-qualification within their second quarter in the end-of-quarter Scheduling Summary Report. The contractor provides the FAMS with a copy of the re-qualification schedule sixty days and thirty days prior to the first day of the re-qualification quarter. The FAMS posts the re-qualification schedule on the PAN Dashboard.

Recurrent Training –

The contractor is not required to provide logistical support to the Atlantic City, NJ and Dallas, TX Recurrent Training Program (RTP) sites. The contractor provides planning, scheduling, and technical support to the FFDO Recurrent Training Program (RTP) at the Atlantic City, NJ and Dallas, TX training sites. Elements of recurrent training include firearms proficiency (re-qualification), situational/simulations training, weapons retention, legal and program procedures update, and verification and update of program participation requirements (i.e. Standard Operating Procedures, use of the PAN Dashboard, Common Strategy). All read-ahead material for the RTP is available to FFDOs online from TSA’s secure website, or provided by FAMS.

The contractor schedules FFDOs for the class date of their choice, on a first-come/first-served basis. FFDOs are responsible for completing this course within 36–60 months after the date of their initial deputation, and are responsible for submitting an updated medical clearance form to FAMS medical staff before attending RTP. The contractor schedules two RTP classes per week per training site, with a maximum of 24 FFDOs per class.

Each class consists of two consecutive days in length, with a class syllabus (course outline) provided by TSA/FAMS. TSA notifies the contractor if an individual should be removed from a training class for cause, including, but not limited to, failure to provide an updated medical clearance form, injury, unsafe or disruptive conduct, or failure to re-qualify.

Classes are currently offered at the FAMS Training Center, William J. Hughes Tech Center, Building 291E, Atlantic City International Airport (ACY) NJ 08405. A recurrent training site will be added in Dallas – Ft. Worth (DFW) in FY09. The DFW RTP site will use a different range facility from the one used for semi-annual firearms re-qualifications.

The contractor does not schedule any recurrent training classes on regularly scheduled Federal holidays, as identified by the U.S. Office of Personnel Management (OPM):(http://www.opm.gov/Operating_Status_Schedules/fedhol/2008.asp).

The contractor provides final class rosters to the FAMS Training Division (ACY) and FAMS Medical no less than one week prior to the scheduled class date. The contractor notifies each FFDO sixty days and thirty days prior to the first quarter in which they are eligible to attend re-current training. The contractor transmits these notifications via email. The FAMS Program Office provides the text for the notifications.

The Recurrent Training Program course curriculum includes a firearms re-qualification session that will satisfy a participating FFDO’s re-qualification requirement for that re-qualification cycle. The contractor notifies each FFDO ninety days prior to expiration of the individual’s medical certificate, and again when expiration occurs.

Call Center Coverage

The contractor provides FFDO customer service support to include: travel coordination (student arrival and departure activity) with FLETC Artesia staff and FAMS Training Center ACY staff, cancellation/no-show communications with FLETC Artesia staff and FAMS ACY Training Center, and roster updates and verifications for Initial Training, Firearms Re-qualification, and Recurrent Training. TSA/FAMS requires the same current level of service and operational hours for FFDO customer service support.

Data Management and System Documentation

Data Management tracks and secures the same type of information that is currently being managed in contractor’s FFDO Information System. The contractor is required to transfer training data (e.g., student results, rosters of completed classes, training location information) that currently resides within the contractor’s FFDO Information System to TSA/FAMS during the transition period.

Information concerning the deployments and operations of Federal Flight Deck Officers, and numbers of Federal Flight Deck officers aggregated by aircraft operator is considered SSI.

The name or other identifying information that identifies a person as a current, former or applicant for Federal Flight Deck Officer is considered SSI. The system requirements for maintaining SSI and PII must be in compliance with the TSA MD 2100.2, Privacy and Information Collection Policy and TSA MD 1400.3 TSA Information Security Policy. The contractor documents and defines their data base to TSA/FAMS to include a high level system description and accompanying detailed data dictionary.

TSA requires the contractor to provide an electronic upload of training data to the TSA dashboard (e.g. pan) on a daily basis, to include the names and dates of attendance of FFDOs who attend and pass initial and recurrent training, and firearms re-qualification. The manner and required format is determined between pan and the contractor so as to best facilitate the population of data to be viewed on the dashboard training page and FFDO personal profiles.

b. Logistics

Initial Training - All read-ahead material for eligible volunteers will be available to download from the TSA/FAMS secure website.

Semi-annual Firearms Re-qualification – Logistics support is provided in accordance with existing procedures. Logistics support for Firearms Requalification primarily involves the purchase and shipment of training aids and materials to the Lead Firearms Instructors (LFIs) and ranges.

On occasion, it may become necessary for authorized FAMS representatives to conduct a training presentation for FFDOs attending re-qualification. This training may be for such purposes as detailing the proper use of new types of equipment, or outlining new program requirements. Depending upon the circumstances, some re-qualification facilities (i.e. those with high FFDO attendance) may require additional time beyond the allotted 4 hours per session for all these activities to be completed. Accordingly, TSA/FAMS and the contractor coordinate the requirements for such training, including estimates of the additional time needed, prior to the implementation of such training.

Training Aids & Materials - Each FFDO is responsible for bringing their issued firearm, holster, extra magazines, magazine holder, eye and ear protective equipment, and TSA/FAMS-approved firearm transport device. The contractor provides the following specific training aids and materials:

• Duty Ammunition – No less than fifty (50) rounds per FFDO of Speer Brand, Gold Dot, 165 grain, .40 caliber, semi-jacketed hollow point ammunition, or alternate duty ammunition authorized by TSA/FAMS, to be issued to each FFDO upon successfully re-qualifying.

• Training Ammunition – No less than one hundred and fifty (150) rounds per FFDO of Speer Brand, Lawman RHT, 125 grain, .40 caliber, “Frangible” CF ammunition, or other alternate frangible ammunition authorized by the TSA/FAMS, dependent upon range requirements..

• Targets - All FFDO firearms re-qualification courses of fire uses the standard FLETC Transitional Target III.

• Targets: Three (3) targets per FFDO

• Target Backers: One (1) backer per FFDO

• The contractor makes available OSHA approved eye and ear protection. FFDO’s normally arrive with approved ear and eye protection previously provided by the government.

However, in those instances where FFDO’s have forgotten to arrive with the approved protection equipment the contractor and/or range facility temporarily supplies such equipment.

• The contractor makes available and require the use of secondary hearing protection (ear plugs) to supplement the OSHA approved head sets mandated for use.

• The contractor provides disposable "eyepiece" shields to any shooter that wears glasses (These are essentially small panels that attach to each eyepiece on a pair of glasses to protect the eyes from bullet fragments or other particulate matter).

• The contractor ensures or makes available an Automatic External Defibrillator (AED) and trauma kit at each site, and that each LFI and SFI is instructed in their use.

• The contractor provides basic familiarization and operating instruction of the range apparatus to the LFIs.

• The contractor makes available a working telephone for medical and other emergencies.

• The contractor provides Bull Horns and/or a Portable Public Address (PA) system at every firearm re-qualification facility without a range Public Address (PA) system, or where the PA system does not provide adequate amplification, as determined by the LFI.

• The contractor shall provides H&K USP .40 LEM site adjustment tools, if needed.

Recurrent Training –All FFDO read-ahead material is downloadable from the TSA’s secured website or provided by FAMS.

c. Technical Assistance

Semi-annual Firearms Re-qualification Session - The Re-qualification Course of Fire is the same course of fire as used by the FFDOs in their initial training, or as otherwise approved by TSA/FAMS. The duration of the re-qualification session is approximately four hours, and includes lecture, lab and practical exercise. FFDOs fire a warm-up course of fire consisting of fifty rounds, and then is afforded two opportunities, if necessary, to qualify with sixty rounds, in accordance with the FAMS-approved Lesson Plan and Re-qualification Course of Fire.

Use of Duty Ammunition - Each FFDO is given an opportunity to expend their previously-issued duty ammunition during re-qualification. If range conditions permit the use of duty ammunition, it is used for the re-qualification Course of Fire (Qualification for Record). If range conditions do not permit the use of duty ammunition, the contractor encourages FFDOs to use their previously-issued duty ammunition at suitable and approved practice locations at their convenience per SOP guidance.

Semi-annual Re-qualification Warm-up – The warm-up course of fire consists of a suitable string of fire approved by TSA that facilitates a successful completion of firearms re-qualification for the FFDO.

Semi-annual Re-qualification Course of Fire –

Approved course materials (FLETC lesson plan outline, etc) are furnished to the contractor by the FAMS, and are strictly adhered to. Any problems, questions, issues, or suggestions arising out of the Lesson Plan or procedural requirements for administering the Course of Fire, including any warm-up or remediation exercises, is referred for discussion and/or resolution to the appropriate FAMS subject matter experts through the LFI, in consultation with the TSA.

The course of fire is scored in accordance with procedures approved by TSA/FAMS, and will be recorded as “Pass” or “Fail” only. Each FFDO is informed individually by the LFI of the results of their attempt(s) to re-qualify, and of any identifiable problem(s) or issue(s) with their shooting technique.

Each FFDO is afforded two opportunities to successfully re-qualify in a single firearms re-qualification session. Failure to attain a passing score at the conclusion of the second attempt to re-qualify will result in suspension of the FFDO’s authority to transport, carry, or possess the issued firearm. The firearm of an FFDO who fails to re-qualify is surrendered to the LFI, FAMS employee and/or other designee, as authorized by FAMS.

The FFDO semi-annual firearms re-qualification syllabus calls for remedial instruction to be offered to an FFDO who fails to re-qualify on their first attempt. The contractor bases such instruction on the remedial training procedure provided for in the FAMS-approved re-qualification lesson plan.

Facilities –

The contractor provides the facilities (one primary and one contingency range site in each location specified by TSA/FAMS), instructors, and training aids required to implement the firearms re-qualification program.

The contractor certifies to FAMS, on an annual basis, that each site meets all applicable local, state, and/or federal licensing requirements, and reports any pending official actions against a facility that may adversely affect its ability to remain in operation.

The contractor certifies to FAMS, on an annual basis, the ownership of the facility. Any changes in ownership that come to the attention of the contractor are immediately reported to TSA/FAMS.

TSA/FAMS Observation: TSA/FAMS personnel are authorized to observe and/or assess any contractor-administered firearms re-qualification or recurrent training activity at any time, and without prior notification to the contractor.

Quality Assurance (QA) Assessments

TSA/FAMS conducts Quality Assurance (QA) assessments of FFDO re-qualification sites, instructors and associated activities. QA Assessors are admitted to any re-qualification or recurrent training facility after presenting official credentials for inspection by the LFI. QA Assessments are conducted in accordance with established QA program procedures and in a manner that does not distract from the training delivery.

Non-QA FAMS personnel may also be on hand to observe firearms re-qualification and/or recurrent training, and are admitted to the facility after presenting official FAMS credentials for inspection by the LFI.

In the event TSA/FAMS personnel observe any action or conduct on the part of any person that creates an imminent possibility of injury or death, they are authorized to intervene directly with the individual(s) in order to prevent such from occurring. The lead instructor is immediately informed of the action taken, and suspends the training activity in order to take such steps as are necessary to manage and correct the situation.

New Business Rules/Procedures On occasion, new or revised procedures may have to be implemented due to changes in the business rules for the FFDO Program. These procedures may include, but not be limited to additional training or travel requirements, implementing program efficiencies, and providing

“task-specific” reports. Accordingly, the contractor is requested to provide comments and feedback on any procedure that may impact the contract, and provides full cooperation to the FAMS Program Office in implementing any new or revised procedures.

Reporting Initial Training Scheduling Summary: The contractor provides a daily report daily to recipients designated by the TSA/FAMS. The report summarizes:

The current status of all FFDO candidates that have an active status of “Eligible for Training” in the TSA Dashboard.

The number of candidates that are in a scheduled or pending status, the breakdown of passenger and cargo pilots, and any additional comments necessary to highlight unique circumstances.

Specific numbers for each class and also for the training activity at FLETC, Glynco, and Artesia since the program’s inception

Future class information.

Re-qualification Training Scheduling Summary: The contractor provides a weekly report to recipients designated by the TSA and the contractor. Information contained in the report includes:

Scheduling totals of all deputized FFDOs due to re-qualify within the specific quarter selected.

Range utilization.

Dates of sessions Number of firing lanes available per range/per session.

Number of firing lanes filled per range/per session.

Names of FFDOs granted extensions

FFDO REQUIRED RANGES BY CITY

1. Anchorage, AK (OLE/FAMS provide range) Logistics requirement only (no instruction required)

2. Atlanta, GA

3. Boston, MA

4. Charlotte, NC

5. Chicago, IL

6. Cincinnati, OH

7. Dallas, TX

8. Denver, CO

9. Detroit, MI

10. Dulles, VA (OLE/FAMS provide range)

11. Honolulu, HA

12. Houston, TX

13. Las Vegas, NV

14. Los Angeles, CA

15. Louisville, KY

16. Memphis, TN

17. Miami, FL

18. Minneapolis, MN

19. Newark, NJ

20. Orlando, FL

21. Philadelphia, PA

22. Phoenix, AZ

23. Salt Lake City, UT

24. San Francisco, CA

25. Seattle, WA

26. San Diego, CA

27. St. Louis, MO

4. Customer Service Support Center (CSSC)

The contractor provides planning and scheduling, deployment, logistics and data management support for all training programs through the Customer Service Support Center. Planning and scheduling involves the planning and forecasting of training locations, roster management, and deployment designation.