JB-MDL_AirAdvisorAcademics_QA_21051112.docx

Questions and Answers to FA4484-16-R-0004 Revised: 12 November 2015

1. Question: Is experience in any US Military formal schoolhouse acceptable (PWS, 1.4.1.1.4)?

Response: Yes, in accordance with paragraph 1.4.1.1.4 of the Performance Work Statement (PWS).

2. Questions: Can the contract/site manager conduct classroom training during brief periods of instructor absence due to leave/TDY (PWS, 1.4.1)?

Response: The successful offeror shall comply with paragraphs 1.13 and 1.4.3.3 on substitution of personnel.

3. Question: What requirements determine “qualified” to teach lessons in other disciplines (PWS, 1.4.3.1.2)?

Response: Instructors for any subject matter must meet the qualifications outlined in the PWS section 1.4.3.2.

4. Question: Will instructors qualified to teach in other disciplines be required to meet all the experience requirements of the other discipline identified in the PWS (PWS, 1.4.3.1.2)?

Response: Yes.

5. Question: Are theater security cooperation VTCs part of AA course curricula (PWS, 1.4.3.2.2.2.3)?

Response: Yes, per PWS Appendices B and B.1.

6. Questions: Define “equivalent work experience.” Can this be applied to other instructor/SME positions (1.4.3.2.4.1.3)?

Response: No, equivalent work experience will comply with paragraph 1.4.3.2.4.1.3.

7. Question: Will instructors be expected to have experience in more than one region (PWS, 1.4.3.2.5.1.3)?

Response: No.

8. Question: What languages are expected to be used (PWS, 1.4.3.2.6.1.1)?

Response: The required language will be specified in accordance with the PWS paragraph 1.4.3.2.6.2.1.

9. Question: Can role players also be other SMEs providing they meet qualification requirements (PWS, 1.4.3.2.6)?

Response: As a performance-based effort it is up to the contractor to determine staffing in accordance with the qualifications of the PWS paragraph 1.4.3.2.6.

10. Question: Will the CCAF Instructor Methodology course be conducted by the government, located at the EC, and be included during the indoctrination phase of training (PWS, 1.4.3.3.2)?

Response: Yes.

11. Question: Will task orders be issued NLT 10 days prior to the start of indoctrination training (PWS, 1.6.1)?

Response: Yes in accordance with PWS paragraph 1.6.1.

12. Question: Under what circumstances would the contractor be required to provide meals and supplies (PWS, 1.6.2)?

Response: Reference revised PWS paragraph 1.6.2.

13. Question: Will the contractor be required to provide their own transportation during MTTs and training at other locations (PWS, 1.11)?

Response: Yes, the contractor will be required to provide transportation during a Mobile Training Team (MTT). Travel will be reimbursed under CLIN 0006 and corresponding option years in accordance with PWS paragraph 1.6.3.2.

14. Question: Is the course content broken into blocks of instruction taught by different instructor SMEs (PWS, Appendix B, and Air Advisor Course)?

Response: Yes.

15. Question: Are instructor levels expected to remain constant throughout the execution of the contract?

Response: Yes.

16. Question: Under CLINS 0003/1002/2002/3002/4002 – is the price for one academic instructor per year or the total number of instructors required to complete the work in PWS 1.4.3?

Response: Under CLINs 0003/1002/2002/3002/4002 the price is for the total number of instructors required to complete the work in accordance with the PWS.

17. Questions: Under CLINS 0004/1003/2003/3003/4003 – please confirm we should be bidding the unit price for one role player for the 8 hours required per event.

Response: Yes. Reference Solicitation Amendment FA4484-16-R-0004-0002, CLIN 0004 and corresponding option year CLINS for role players.

18. Question: The PWS is marked as draft 30 September 15 – should this say final or the draft be removed?

Response: Yes, reference revised PWS dated 5 November 2015.

19. Questions: Under Part II – Technical Proposal instructions on page 23 of 75, the instructions state “the factor shall clearly demonstrate an understanding of all tasks specified in the PWS and describe the approach to performance of the requirements of the technical factor” further down in the same section the Technical Factor is described as “organizational staffing and manning utilization plan/approach: the offeror shall provide a staffing plan to recruit and retain the skill sets required of the PWS and appendix B.

Under Evaluation for Award – 31 of 75 the following is how the definition of Technical Acceptability is evaluated:

Technical Factor – Organizational Staffing and Manning Utilization Plan/Approach: The offeror shall provide a staffing plan to recruit and retain the skill sets required of the PWS and Appendix B.

Measure of Merit: Requirement is met when the offeror provides a staffing plan to include a staffing chart that describes qualified personnel, recruitment and retention plan considering local market conditions, classroom capabilities and course overlap necessary to meet instructional and administrative requirements of the PWS and Appendix B. Resumes are not to be included.

Please confirm that the technical proposal does not need to address the technical elements of the PWS.

Response: No, the technical proposal must be addressed in accordance with the addendum to FAR 52.212-1, paragraph C.2., Part II – Technical Proposal.

20. Question: Please clarify the number of FTEs currently engaged on this task based on the existing contract.

Response: Providing the number of contractor full time equivalents on the current contract, FA3002-12-D-0003, would be misleading to offerors since the scope of that contract is significantly different. In addition, this is a performance-based effort and it is up to the contractor to determine staffing in accordance with the PWS.

21. Question: Please provide information on MTT support over the last two years in terms of the numbers of MTTs supported and FTE participants (Ref PWS 1.2.2.1 on page 5).

Response: Approximately 12 MTTs have been supported over the last two years averaging 2 contractor instructors per event.

22. Question: Please provide a copy of the FY15 or FY16 schedule for Air Advisor Academic courses to show historical examples of course overlap (Ref PWS 1.2.3 on page 5).

Response: The draft FY16 schedule is provided as attachment #1 current as of 1 Nov 2015 which is subject to change.

23. Question: Please specify the regions represented by the role players over the last 24 months (Ref PWS 1.4.3.2.6.2.1. on page 15).

Response: Historically CENTCOM, AFRICOM, SOUTHCOM and EUCOM have been represented by role players over the last 24 months.

24. Question: Please provide an estimate of how many training days the students are together before they split (Ref Note 3 on PWS page 32).

Response: Students are together for core knowledge classes and split for region specific classes on a varying basis throughout each training day for the duration of the course. A notional schedule is attached as attachment #2.

25. Question: “1.3.1.2 Discusses the schedule and use of Government instructors in lieu of contract instructors” Given the potential of nonuse of planned Contract instructors, can the government provide Full Time Equivalent expectations by category or provide a FTE history by category?

Response: No. Use of government personnel to teach is infrequent and at the discretion of the government.

26. Question: Can the Government please provide a course convening schedule?

Response: Yes, as referenced in the response to question #22 and attachment 1.

27. Question: “Instructions to offerors – Commercial Items - General Information Page 25” Does the Government require hand deliver of proposals? If not, can the Government please provide commercial carrier delivery instructions?

Response: No. The offeror may choose the method of delivery. Reference Amendment FA4484-16-R-0004-0002.

28. Question: Can the government please provide the Plan of Instruction (POI) for each course by day and week?

Response: Yes, reference attachment #2 and as referenced in the response to questions and #24.

29. Question: Can you provide the current number of FTEs?

Response: No, this is a performance-based effort and it is up to the contractor to determine staffing in accordance with the PWS.

30. Question: Will there be a travel and ODC CLIN?

31. Question: Are the instructors and role players SCA?

Response: Yes, the requirement is subject to the Service Contract Act.

32. Question: Is role player support used throughout the course or only during the final exercise?

Response: Role player support will be used in accordance with PWS paragraph 1.4.3.2.6.2.1, Note 1 on an as needed basis.

33. Question: What is the length of the final exercise and is it conducted in a field environment?

Response: Reference PWS paragraph 1.4.3.2.6.2.1, Note 1. No, the final exercise is conducted in an office environment.

34. Question: “Instructions to offerors – Commercial Items Pages 24 & 25 of the RFP Part IV”, “It states that a subcontracting plan is required for all businesses other than small.” This requirement is not listed in Evaluation – Commercial Items pages 30 - 32 Is there a requirement to have a small business plan and if so, what is the evaluation criteria?

Response: Yes, in accordance with Addenda to FAR 52.212-1, Instructions to Offerors-Commercial Items, there is a requirement to have a small business subcontracting plan for businesses other than small businesses. Reference amendment FA4484-16-R-0004-0002 FAR Clause 52.219-9, Small Business Subcontracting Plan.

35. Question: Can the Government provide which positions have been historically SCA?

Response: Yes, the requirement is subject to the Service Contract Act. This is answered in paragraph 2.C of the site visit minutes.

36. Question: Does the Role Player Wage determination 2012-0085 Rev 05/31/2012 apply to this contract? If so, can the Government please provide as an attachment.

Response: No.

37. Question: 1.2.4 States government will provide Site Manager the Annual Schedule during Mobilization. Will the government provide the annual schedule during proposal phase to determine Instructor workload basis of estimate?

Response: Yes, reference attachment #1.

38. Question: 1.4.3.1.1 provides duties of the Instructor/Subject Matter Expert; however it defines use of role as pertaining to their respective discipline. Can the government provide respective disciplines expectation for this position category?

Response: 1.4.3.1 provides general duties applicable to all instructors / Subject Matter Experts. Specific instructor qualifications and duties for each respective discipline are outlined in 1.4.3.2 and all sub-paragraphs.

39. Question: 1.4.3.2 States Specific Qualifications and Duties, can the government provide the additional specific qualifications and duties that would be expected beyond that provided in 1.4.3 and sub-paragraphs?

Response: There are no additional specific qualifications and duties expected beyond those provided in 1.4.3 and sub-paragraphs.

40. Question: CLIN structure for item 0001 (Base Year: Phase-In/Mobilization, Phase-In/Mobilization in accordance with the performance work statement 1.6.5. Period of Performance: 12 Apr 2016 - 11 Apr 2017) doesn’t match PWS words in paragraph 1.6.5 “Contract Phase-in. Prior to the issuance of the first task order under this contract, the successor contractor will be afforded a 30-day phase-in period. During the phase-in period, the successor contractor shall complete all qualification requirements that will enable contractor personnel to begin Air Advisor training instruction. Phase-in will be separately priced.” Will the government please clarify requirements for pricing the phase in period?

Response: Reference revised PWS dated 5 November 2015 clarifying “phase-in/mobilization period” and the corresponding paragraphs 1.2.4, 1.4.3.3.1, 1.4.3.3.2, 1.8.2.2 and Appendix D.

41. Question: The period of performance begins 12 April 2016, after the incumbent contract ends.

Will the government please clarify the dates and identify if any overlap with the current incumbent is anticipated?

Response: Reference Solicitation Amendment FA4484-16-R-0004-0002 for the mobilization period. Yes, overlap will occur during the mobilization phase in accordance with PWS paragraphs 1.2.4, 1.4.3.3.1, 1.4.3.3.2 and 1.8.2.2.

42. Question: PWS 1.4.2.1 – Subparagraph 1.4.2.1.5 is not included (skips from .4 to .6); please confirm if there is an additional requirement.

Response: No, there are no additional requirements. Reference revised PWS dated 5 November 2015.

43. Question: PWS 1.4.1.1.1 lists a master’s degree as a requirement for the site manager. PWS 1.4.1.2.12 states that the site manager is not a primary instructor. Since the site lead is not a primary instructor, is the master’s degree a waiverable item IAW PWS 1.4.3.3.4?

Response: No.

44. Question: PWS 1.4.3.3 – Subparagraph 1.4.3.3.2 is listed twice. Please confirm if this will be corrected.

1.4.3.3.2 During the mobilization period, and thereafter for all new contractors, indoctrination training shall be provided by the government to include, but not be limited to:

- Community College of the Air Force (CCAF) Affiliation

- CCAF Policies, Procedures, and Guidelines (PPG)

- EC’s Enterprise Information Management (EIM) and Routing Process

- Instructional Systems Development (ISD) Process and Courseware Requirements

- Instructor Requirements - PPG Section C and EC Faculty Development Operating Instruction (AIC, Internship, Evaluations, SME Testing, Degree, etc.)

- Hotwash Process - Level I, II, and III data collected

- Registrar Processes - Student enrollment/graduation reporting, products, and library

Response: Yes, reference revised PWS dated 5 November 2015.

45. Question: Will electronic submission of bidder proposals be accepted?

46. Question: Reference PWS paragraph 1.4.3.3.4 Waivers: There are no waiver provisions for meeting student and qualified instructor requirements, failure to meet minimum CCAF PPG and USAF EC‐established instructor policies will be decertified from instructor duties. For potential contractor employees who do not meet other minimum qualifications per this PWS, a waiver package must be submitted to 87 ABW/CONS. Can you please clarify whether the prohibition on waivers applies only to CCAF PPG and USAF EC established instructor policies, or to all specialized instructor qualifications in PWS paragraph 1.4.3?

Response: The prohibition applies to CCAF PPG and USAF EC established instructor policies. Reference revised PWS paragraph 1.4.3.3.5 dated 5 November 2015.

47. Question: Can you clarify if the ODC CLINS should be identified as “Cost” type CLINS vice how they are reflected in the current solicitation as “FFP”?

Response: No. The ODC CLIN 0007 and corresponding option CLINS are correctly stated.

48. Question: “Work under this contract will include lessons/blocks of instruction on core skills that are applicable to all Air Advisors as well as provide additional education tailored for specific requirements. The Air Advisor education and training support required under this PWS will encompass Air Advisor core knowledge areas and region and culture studies. Examples of the types of lessons taught are highlighted in Appendix B – Summary of Air Advisor Academic Courses. The Government anticipates an annual student load of approximately 1,500 students. The average daily student load may be up to 60 students with up to 4 classes running concurrently. See Appendix B – Summary of Air Advisor Academic Courses – for more course and class size information.” If several classes run concurrently, are they all required to run in the exact same course sequence or course daily schedule as shown in Appendices B, B.1, B.2 and B.3? Does our course schedule have to match hour by hour/block by block as listed in Appendices B.1, B.2 and B.3?

Response: No, classes are not required to run in the same sequence as provided in Appendix B, B.1, B.2 and B.3. No, the course schedule does not have to match “hour by hour/block” as listed in Appendix B.1, B.2 and B.3.

49. Question: “Instructor/Student Ratio: 1:30 lecture; 1:15 performance/demonstration” Are the Role Players required only during the Performance/ Demonstration phase of each of the courses?

Response: No.

50. Question: “Instructor/Subject Matter Experts (SMEs)” Please confirm that the general duties of the Instructor/SMEs listed in 1.4.3.1.1-1.4.3.1.13 also apply to the following: Doctrine and Strategic Guidance Instructor/SME, Security Cooperation Instructor/SME, JIIM. Instructor/SME, TTP and AA Leadership Instructor/SME, and the Region and Culture Instructor/SMEs.

Response: Yes, reference general duties listed in PWS 1.4.3.1.1 - 1.4.3.1.13.

51. Question: “Non-full time student instructors must meet the same qualification requirements of full time instructors IAW this PWS and EC-established policies and procedures (Appendix C-Publications).” Are role players considered “Part Time Instructors” in having to meet the instructor requirements in Appendix C?

Response: No.

52. Question: “The evaluation of past performance information will take into account past performance information regarding predecessor companies, key personnel who have relevant experience, or subcontractors that will perform major or critical aspects of the requirement when such information is relevant to the instant acquisition.” Please define the term “instant acquisition.” How should offerors indicate and/or differentiate past performance information that is being provided from key personnel who have relevant experience?

Response: The term instant acquisition refers to this solicitation, FA4484-16-R-0004. Reference Solicitation FA4484-16-R-0004, Addendum to 52.212-1, Instructions, Conditions, and Notice to Offerors, Part III(b).

53. Question: Provide a list of no more than ten (10), of the most relevant contracts performed for Federal agencies and commercial customers within the past five (5) years.” Is the offeror required to provide a Past Performance Questionnaire for each of the relevant contracts (up to 10) listed in the Performance Survey section of their proposal?

Response: Solicitation FA4484-16-R-0004, Addendum to 52.212-1, Instructions, Conditions, and Notice to Offerors, Part III(c) as it is at the discretion of the offeror.

54. Question: “From Offeror Instructions: “Technical Factor – Organizational Staffing and Manning Utilization Plan/Approach: The offeror shall provide a staffing plan to recruit and retain the skill sets required of the PWS and Appendix B.” From Evaluation Criteria: “Measure of Merit: Requirement is met when the offeror provides a staffing plan to include a staffing chart that describes qualified personnel, recruitment and retention plan considering local market conditions, classroom capabilities and course overlap necessary to meet instructional and administrative requirements of the PWS and Appendix B. Resumes are not to be included.”” How will the requirement to “provide a staffing plan to recruit and retain the skill sets required of the PWS and Appendix B” be evaluated? (Emphasis specifically on the underlined text.) The words “skill sets” are not mentioned in the Measure of Merit.

Response: Reference Addendum to 52.212-2, Basis for Contract Award, paragraph A.

55. Question: “Information Regarding Submission of Proposal: Hand carried proposals must be delivered to 87th Contracting Squadron located at 2402 Vandenberg Ave, Attention: Manuel Revilla, Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst, NJ 08641.” Is delivery via FedEx allowed? If so, are there different delivery instructions?

Response: Yes, delivery via FedEx is allowable. No, there are no different delivery instructions.

56. Question: “Joint ventures are allowable on competitive 8(a) set-asides, however, the joint venture agreement must be received by SBA prior to the proposal due date and approved before award of any resulting contract.” Is this contract being competed as an 8(a) set-aside or is it Unrestricted as indicated on the SF 1449?

Response: Reference Solicitation FA4484-16-R-0004, Block 10.

57. Question: “Printed or Copied Double-Sided on Postconsumer Fiber Content Paper” to confirm, the Government would like us to print our hard-copy proposals double sided, correct?

Response: Reference FAR Clause 52.204-4, Printed or Copied Double-Sided on Postconsumer Fiber Content Paper.

58. Question: “The response shall consist of three (3) separate parts; Part I - Price Proposal, Part II - Technical Proposal, Part III - Past Performance Information, and Part IV- Subcontracting Plan (if required).” Does the Government mean four parts? How many total copies (original and copies) of Part IV - Subcontracting Plan are required?

Response: Reference Amendment FA4484-16-R-0004-0002.

59. Question: “(a) Complete blocks 12, 17a, and 30a, b, and c of the SF1449. In doing so, the offeror accedes to the contract terms and conditions as written in the SOLICITATION, with attachments. The SOLICITATION constitutes the model contract.” If the solicitation is amended, shall we also provide signed copies of each amendment (SF33s) in this section as well?

Response: Reference Solicitation FA4484-16-R-0004 Addendum to 52.212-1; Instructions, Conditions, and Notice to Offerors; Part I, Price Proposal. Also addressed in the site visit minutes on the acknowledgement of amendments at paragraph 2.H.

60. Question: “(d) If applicable, provide a copy of the letter from the Small Business Administration showing proof of Section 8(a) status.” The SF1449 indicates that this solicitation is a full-and-open acquisition (unrestricted) in NAICS code 611699. Is this requirement a typographical error?

Response: No.

61. Question: “The Technical proposal is comprised of one separate technical factor. The factor shall clearly demonstrate an understanding of all tasks specified in the PWS and describe the approach to perform the requirements of the technical factor. The technical factor will receive an individual rating of “Acceptable” or “Unacceptable.” There will not be an overall rating for Technical and Technical Risk. The offeror shall provide the following plan/approach: Technical Factor – Organizational Staffing and Manning Utilization Plan/Approach: The offeror shall provide a staffing plan to recruit and retain the skill sets required of the PWS and Appendix B.” To confirm, the Government is looking for a technical approach to the PWS requirements, as well as an operational staff and manning utilization plan/approach.

Response: Reference FAR 52.212-1; paragraph C.2., Part II – Technical Proposal.

62. Question: “(a) Quality and Satisfaction Rating for Contracts Completed in the Past Five Years: Provide any information currently available (letters, metrics, customer surveys, independent surveys, etc.) which demonstrates customer satisfaction with overall job performance and quality of completed product for relevant past efforts/contracts (similar in scope and magnitude of effort and complexities this solicitation requires). In addition, explain corrective actions taken in the past, if any, for substandard performance and any current performance problems such as cost overruns, extended performance periods, numerous warranty calls, etc.” Is this information to be submitted by the prime offeror and each teaming partner, or just the prime offeror? Are there an exact number of items required?

Response: Information must be submitted by the prime offeror. Reference FAR 52.212-1; paragraph C.3., Part III – Past Performance Information, paragraph (b) for the number of references.

63. Question: “(b) Performance Surveys: The government will evaluate the quality and extent of offeror’ s performance deemed relevant to the requirements of this RFP. The government will use information submitted by the offeror and any other sources of information available to the Government to assess past performance. Provide a list of no more than ten (10), of the most relevant contracts performed for Federal agencies and commercial customers within the last five (5) years. Relevant contracts include similar services to those specified in the PWS. The evaluation of past performance information will take into account past performance information regarding predecessor companies, key personnel who have relevant experience, or subcontractors that will perform major or critical aspects of the requirement when such information is relevant to the instant acquisition. Furnish the following information for each contract listed: (i) Company/Division name, (ii) Product/Service, (iii) Contracting Agency/Customer, (iv) Contract Number, (v) Contract Dollar Value, (vi) Period of Performance, (vii) Verified, up-to-date name, address, FAX & telephone number of the contracting officer, (viii) Comments regarding compliance with contract terms and conditions, (ix) Comments regarding any known performance deemed unacceptable to the customer, or not in accordance with the contract terms and conditions.” To confirm, the prime offeror shall submit a list of 10 relevant contracts completed within the past 5 years? To confirm, each teaming partner/subcontractor also must submit a list of 10 relevant contracts completed within the past 5 years? The Government states, "The evaluation of past performance information will take into account past performance information regarding predecessor companies, key personnel who have relevant experience, or subcontractors that will perform major or critical aspects of the requirement when such information is relevant to the instant acquisition." Because this is a full-and-open (unrestricted) competition, does this still apply per the FAR? Is the Government looking for up to 10 past performance questionnaires?

Response: Reference FAR 52.212-1; paragraph C.3., Part III – Past Performance Information, paragraph (b) for the total number of references per offeror. Yes, the evaluation of past performance information will take into account past performance information regarding predecessor companies, key personnel who have relevant experience, or subcontractors that will perform major or critical aspects of the requirement when such information is relevant to the instant acquisition.

64. Question: “(c) Performance Questionnaires: The offeror will provide the government furnished questionnaire (“Past Performance Questionnaire”) to those federal agencies and commercial customers whose performances are deemed recent and relevant and direct them to return the completed questionnaires to the point of contact listed on the questionnaire. The evaluation of past performance information will take into account past performance information regarding predecessor companies, key personnel who have recent, relevant experience, or subcontractors that will perform major or critical aspects of the requirement when such information is relevant to the instant acquisition. NOTE: PAST AND PRESENT PERFORMANCE QUESTIONNAIRES WILL NOT BE ACCEPTED FROM THE OFFEROR; IT MUST BE SUBMITTED BY THE RATER. IT IS THE RESPONSIBILITY OF THE OFFEROR TO ENSURE PAST AND PRESENT PERFORMANCE QUESTIONNAIRES ARE SUBMITTED TO THE GOVERNMENT. If a teaming arrangement is contemplated, provide complete information as to the arrangement, including any relevant and recent past performance information on previous teaming arrangements with same partner. If this is a first time joint effort, each party to the arrangement must provide a list of past relevant contracts.” To confirm, the prime offeror shall submit a list of 10 relevant contracts completed within the past 5 years? To confirm, each teaming partner/subcontractor also must submit a list of 10 relevant contracts completed within the past 5 years? The Government states, "The evaluation of past performance information will take into account past performance information regarding predecessor companies, key personnel who have relevant experience, or subcontractors that will perform major or critical aspects of the requirement when such information is relevant to the instant acquisition." Because this is a full-and-open (unrestricted) competition, does this still apply per the FAR? Is the Government looking for up to 10 past performance questionnaires?

Response: Reference FAR 52.212-1; paragraph C.3., Part III – Past Performance Information, paragraph (b) for the total number of references per offeror. Yes, the evaluation of past performance information will take into account past performance information regarding predecessor companies, key personnel who have relevant experience, or subcontractors that will perform major or critical aspects of the requirement when such information is relevant to the instant acquisition.

65. Question: “(d) Subcontractor Consent: Past performance information pertaining to a subcontractor cannot be disclosed to the prime offeror without the subcontractor’s consent. Provide with the proposal a letter from all subcontractors that will perform major or critical aspects of the requirement, consenting to the release of their past performance information to the prime contractor.” How does the Government define "subcontractors that will perform major or critical aspects of the requirement"? Are these letters required for each subcontractor/teaming partner or just those performing "major or critical aspects"?

Response: Reference FAR 15.305(a)(2)(iii)

66. Question: “4. PART IV: SUBCONTRACTING PLAN - Required for all businesses other than small. The offeror’ s plan shall include all of the requirements of FAR clause 52.219-9 Small Business Subcontracting Plan and comply with the Small Business Program Goals of the Department of Defense located at http://www.acq.osd.mil/osbp/statistics/sbProgramGoals.shtml unless otherwise sufficiently explained and accepted by the government. If applicable, submit a copy of your approved Master Subcontracting Plan.” To confirm, all large business offerors are required to submit a small business subcontracting plan in order to bid on this effort? What are the Government's minimum goals required for each socioeconomic category? According to the Office of Small Business Programs, it is as follows:

Small Business Goals: 21.60%, HUBZone: 3.0%, SDVOSB: 3.0%, SDB: 5.0%, WOSB: 5.0%. Are these the correct percentages? How many total copies (original and copies) are required for this part? Is a small business participation plan also required, or just the actual small business subcontracting plan?

Response: Reference FAR 52.219-9, Small Business Subcontracting Plan, for subcontracting plans submission.

67. Question: “4. PART IV: SUBCONTRACTING PLAN - Required for all businesses other than small. The offeror’ s plan shall include all of the requirements of FAR clause 52.219-9 Small Business Subcontracting Plan and comply with the Small Business Program Goals of the Department of Defense located at http://www.acq.osd.mil/osbp/statistics/sbProgramGoals.shtml unless otherwise sufficiently explained and accepted by the government. If applicable, submit a copy of your approved Master Subcontracting Plan.” If a SB Subcontracting Plan is required for this contract and covers all of the above goals (HUB, SDVOSB, SDB, WOSB), it is challenging to find the best qualified small businesses in the number required to meet all of the listed goals in this size of contract. Personnel are not easily split into percentages that meet the goals and also ensure outstanding support to the Air Force. Would it be possible for the Air Force to establish an overall percentage goal for this effort without requiring all SB categories are included?

Response: Reference FAR 52.219-9, Small Business Subcontracting Plan, for subcontracting plans submission.

68. Question: “INFORMATION REGARDING SUBMISSION OF PROPOSAL: Hand carried proposals must be delivered to 87th Contracting Squadron located at 2402 Vandenberg Ave, Attention: Manuel Revilla, Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst, NJ 08641. The sealed envelope or package used to submit your proposal must show the time and date specified for receipt, the Solicitation Number, and the name and address of the offeror.” We intend to ship our proposal using FedEx. Is this a permissible method of transmission? Is this the best address to which to ship our package using FedEx if permissible?

Response: Reference response to question #55

69. Question: “JOINT VENTURE AGREEMENTS - Joint Ventures are allowable on competitive 8(a) set-asides, however, the joint venture agreement must be received by SBA prior to proposal due date and approved before award of any resulting contract. If you are contemplating a joint venture on this project, you must advise your assigned SBA Business Opportunity Specialist (BOS) as soon as possible. It is also recommended that the agreement be submitted as soon as practicable to ensure compliance with established regulations. Any corrections and/or changes needed can be made only when your BOS has adequate time for a thorough review before the proposal due date. NO CORRECTIONS AND/OR CHANGES ARE ALLOWED AFTER TIME OF SUBMISSION OF PROPOSAL OR BIDS.” Is the language concerning 8(a) set-asides included here in error?

Response: No.

70. Question: “Offerors must clearly identify any exception to the solicitation terms and conditions and provide complete accompanying rationale.” In which volume/section would the Government like us to include this information (i.e., Part I - Price Proposal)?

Response: Include any exceptions to the terms and conditions of the solicitation in Part II – Technical Proposal.

71. Question: “The Government lists the following as evaluation criteria: Technical, Price, and Past Performance.” How will Part IV - Subcontracting Plan be evaluated?

Response: Part IV – Subcontracting Plan will be evaluated in accordance with FAR 52.219-9, Small Business Subcontracting Plan.

72. Question: In 52.212-1, the Government states that we are required to provide the fill-ins and certifications in our proposal. The Government has included two sets of Offeror Representations and Certifications in the solicitation. As a registered contractor in SAM, which set of Representations and Certifications would the Government like us to complete; i.e., both Offeror Representations and Certifications - Commercial Items (Mar 2015) and Offeror Representations and Certifications - Commercial Items (Mar 2015) Alternate I (Oct 2014)?

Response:

73. Question: In 52.212-1, the Government has asked us to provide the following: Part I - Price Proposal (1 original and 1 copy); Part II - Technical Proposal (1 original and 4 copies); Part III - Past Performance Information (1 original and 4 copies); and Part IV - Subcontracting Plan (number of copies TBD). With this in in mind, was Clause 52.215-5, Facsimile Proposals, included by mistake? Please confirm if the Government is looking for a faxed proposal submission.

Response: Reference amendment FA4484-16-R-0004-0005, Addendum to FAR 52.212-1. No, FAR 52.215-5, Facsimile Proposals, is correct.

74. Question: How many FTE and PT instructors/SMEs are currently providing these training and education services?

Response: Reference response to question #20 Providing the number of contractor full time equivalents on the current contract, FA3002-12-D-0003, would be misleading to offerors since the scope of that contract is significantly different. In addition, this is a performance-based effort and it is up to the contractor to determine staffing in accordance with the PWS.

75. Question: “During the mobilization period and thereafter for all new contractors, indoctrination training shall be provided by the Government to include and not limited to…” What is the average length of the indoctrination training?

Response: The indoctrination training is approximately 8 hours.

76. Question: Note 1 states that role players will be utilized approximately 15 times per year, but the CLIN structure states up to 45 iterations. Will the Government please clarify the approximate number of times role players will be used for planning purposes? Are role players required to be U.S. citizens?

Response: No more than eleven role players utilized approximately 15 times per contract year for no more than eight hours per event as referenced in the PWS paragraph 1.4.3.2.6.2.1, Note 1. Reference Solicitation Amendment FA4484-16-R-0004-0002, CLIN 0004 and corresponding option year CLINS for role player. No, qualifications for role players are defined in paragraphs 1.4.3.2.6.1.1 and 1.4.3.2.6.1.2.

77. Question: “CLIN 0001 and Phase-In” The phase-in period and the base year both begin on 12 April 2016 according to CLIN 0001 and 0002. Is the mobilization period not separate from the base year? In Section 1.6.5, Contractor Phase-In, there are 30 days allotted for phase-in. Are these 30 days prior to contract start?

Response: Yes, the mobilization period is separate from the base year.

78. Question: “Item No 0003” Are Item Numbers: 0003, 1002, 2002, 3002, 4002 Academic Instructor, inclusive of all 5 Labor Categories under section 1.4.3?

Response: Reference Solicitation Amendment FA448-16-R-0004-0002, CLIN 0003, 1002, 2002, 3002, and 4002.

79. Question: “Item No 0006, 1005, 2005, 3005, 4005” Travel costs are NTE $40,000. The Travel Item No. states specifically: DO NOT SUBMIT A PRICE PROPOSAL FOR THIS LINE ITEM. There is no line to fill in $40,000 as a plug number. Are we to leave this line item blank? Should the travel item NTE amount be included in the Pricing summary by year?

Response: Yes, offerors are to leave this line item blank. Yes, reference site visit minutes question H.

80. Question: “Item No 0007, 1006, 2006, 3006, 4006” ODC costs are NTE $76,982.40. The ODC Item No. states specifically: DO NOT SUBMIT A PRICE PROPOSAL FOR THIS LINE ITEM. Are we to leave this line item blank? Should the ODC item NTE amount be included in the Pricing summary by year?

Response: Yes, offerors are to leave this line item blank. Yes, reference site visit minutes question H.

81. Question: The contract requests a seniority list of current employee start dates in order to accurately price fringe benefits.

Reference: Compliance with FAR 52.222-41(n) will be adhered to.

82. Question: Is the current contract operating under the same Wage Determination provided with the RFP? If so, what labor category is valid for the current work?

Response: No.

83. Due to the limited size of the program, would a "No Opportunity" letter be acceptable in replacement of a small business subcontracting plan, if the prime intends to perform all of the work in-house?

Response: Yes, but must justify why.

84. If a small business subcontracting plan is required as part of the submission, is it a requirement to meet all of the small business and socioeconomic subcategory goals identified by the DOD website?

Response: We have set no minimums.

85. How many copies of the Subcontracting Plan are required?

Response: Reference Solicitation Amendment FA4484-16-R-0004-0002, FAR 52.212-1; Instructions, Conditions, and Notice to Offerors.

86. Can we ask if it can read "Will provide an instructor with a Master’s degree; or within one (1) year of completion, from an accredited college or university, or has three (3) years of military experience”?

Response: No.

87. On page 31, para D of the solicitation, is the requirement for relevant performance intended to be so specific, involving only Air Advisor Academics services?

Response: Reference Solicitation Amendment FA448-16-R-0004-0002; Addendum to 52.212-2, Instructions, Conditions, and Notice to Offerors for clarified language.