RFP605CO22002637_Nov_4_24_solicitation_doc.pdf

Solicitation Number: RFP605CO22002637

On the Job Training Supportive Services

MODOT Request for Proposal (RFPR)

MoDOT - Dept of Transportation

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General Header Information

RFP605CO22002637

No. RFP605CO22002637 Title: On the Job Training Supportive Services Start Date: July 06, 2022 at 9:00:00 PM GMT End Date: August 03, 2022 at 7:00:00 PM GMT Vendor Q&A Start Date:

Vendor Q&A End Date:

Estimated Total Value:

Who can respond to this bid? : All Vendors Description: The Request for Proposals (RFP) seeks proposals from qualified organizations to provide On the Job Training Supportive Services - Building Career Opportunities in the Heavy Highway Industry to the Missouri Highways and Transportation Commission (MHTC) and Missouri Department of Transportation (MoDOT), in accordance with the provisions and requirements stated in this RFP. The contract period will be from September 1, 2022 through August 31, 2023. MoDOT will receive proposals electronically through MissouriBUYS, by mail through USPS, UPS or FEDEX. If the Offeror intends to submit a hard copy proposal, the Offeror must notify the buyer of record Lori.Tackett@modot.mo.gov within five (5) days before the RFP closing date. MoDOT will not accept any proposals by email.

Delivery Terms: Free On Board Destination Payment Terms: Net 30 Days Contact Information: MoDOT - Dept of Transportation

Lori Tackett 830 MoDOT Drive Jefferson City MO, 65109 United States Tel: 573-522-9481 Email: Lori.Tackett@modot.mo.gov

Contact Details: If you have any questions, please contact:

Lori Tackett 830 MoDOT Drive Jefferson City MO, 65109 United States Tel: 573-522-9481 Email: Lori.Tackett@modot.mo.gov

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RFP605CO22002637

NOTICE

Vendor Responsibility

The vendor is solely responsible for ensuring timely submission of their solicitation response. Failure to allow adequate time prior to the solicitation end date to complete and submit a response to a solicitation, particularly in the event technical support assistance is required, places the vendor and their response at risk of not being accepted on time.

The State of Missouri's Privacy Policy can be accessed here.

MODOT Section Numbering

Section Numbering All section numbering contained in this solicitation is for the convenience of reference only and is not intended to define or limit the scope of any provision of this solicitation and may not be sequential.

ADDENDA

Addendum 01 The due date for receipt of proposals is unchanged by this Addendum. The following clarifications, and/or additional information, are believed to be of general interest to all potential

Offerors. All other terms and conditions remain unchanged and in full force.

It has come to my attention the below sections were not visible to the Offerors when this RFP was posted on July 6, 2022 in MissouriBUYS:

Section 4.5 - Scope of Work Narrative with Timetables/Milestones/Services

Section 4.6 - Budget Proposal and Financial Requirements

This issue has now been resolved and all potential Offerors should be able to view these two sections now.

http://www.mo.gov/privacy-policy/

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Solicitation Requirements:

RFP605CO22002637

MoDOT Instructions for Submitting a Response

Instructions for Submitting a Response

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The Missouri Department of Transportation advertises all bid solicitation documents on the

MissouriBUYS Bid Board (https://www.missouribuys.mo.gov). MissouriBUYS is the State of

Missouri’s web-based statewide eProcurement system which is powered by WebProcure, through our partner, Perfect Commerce.

IMPORTANT NOTICE TO ALL VENDORS:

The Missouri Department of Transportation prefers receipt of all bid responses as electronic submissions. Hard copy submissions may be permitted based on the circumstances and content of the relevant solicitation with the approval of the buyer five (5) business days prior to the solicitation close date.

The solicitation as it appears digitally on the MissouriBUYS website is the official document of record. It is incumbent on the Vendor to inspect and ensure any downloaded or printed version of the solicitation that it contains all information, terms and conditions contained in the solicitation as it appears digitally on the MissouriBUYS website. In the event of any dispute regarding the contents of the solicitation, the solicitation as it appears digitally on the MissouriBUYS website shall take precedence and priority over any other downloaded or printed version of the solicitation.

The vendor is solely responsible for ensuring timely submission of their solicitation response. Failure to allow adequate time prior to the solicitation end date to complete and submit a response to a solicitation, particularly in the event technical support assistance is required, places the vendor and their response at risk of not being accepted on time.

To respond electronically to a solicitation, the vendor must first register with MissouriBUYS by going to the MissouriBUYS Home Page (https://missouribuys.mo.gov), clicking the “Register” button at the top of the page, and completing the Vendor Registration. Once registered the vendor should log back into MissouriBUYS and edit their profile by selecting the organizational contact(s) that should receive an automated confirmation of the vendor’s electronic bid responses successfully submitted to the state.

To respond electronically to a solicitation, the vendor must login to MissouriBUYS and locate the desired solicitation on the Bid Board. The vendor must read and accept the current Solicitation

Documents and any subsequent addendums, as well as complete pricing and any other identified requirements. Vendors should upload their completed response to these accepted documents

(including exhibits, forms, and other information concerning the solicitation) as an attachment to the electronic solicitation response. Step-by-step instructions for how a registered vendor responds to a solicitation electronically are available on the MissouriBUYS system at:

https://missouribuys.mo.gov/sites/missouribuys/files/How_To_Respond_To_A_Solicitation.pdf https://www.missouribuys.mo.gov https://missouribuys.mo.gov https://missouribuys.mo.gov/sites/missouribuys/files/How_To_Respond_To_A_Solicitation.pdf

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Addendum Document: If an addendum document is subsequently issued, please follow these steps to accept the addendum document(s).

1. If you have not accepted the original solicitation document go to the Overview page, find the section titled, Original Solicitation Documents, review the solicitation document(s) then click on the box under Select, and then click on the Accept button.

2. To accept the addendum document, on the Overview page find the section titled Addendum

Document, review the addendum document(s) then click on the box under Select, and then click on the Accept button.

Note: If you submitted an electronic response prior to the addendum date and time, you should review your solicitation response to ensure that it is still valid by taking into consideration the revisions addressed in the addendum document. If a revision is needed to your solicitation response and/or to indicate your acceptance of the addendum document, you will need to retract your response and re-submit your response by following these steps:

1. Log into MissouriBUYS.

2. Select the Solicitations tab.

3. Select View Current Solicitations.

4. Select My List.

5. Select the correct Opportunity Number (Opportunity No); the Overview page will display.

6. Click on Review Response from the navigation bar.

7. Click on Retract if your response needs to be revised.

8. A message will come up asking, “Are you sure you want to retract the Bid”. Click on Continue to confirm.

9. Click on Respond and revise as applicable.

10. Click on Review Response from the navigation bar and then click on Submit to submit your response.

1. MODOT RFP STANDARD PROPOSAL PROVISIONS

1.1. Standard Provisions

The solicitation for the procurement of services referenced therein, is being issued under, and governed by, the provisions of Title 7 Missouri Department of Transportation, Division 10 Missouri Highways and

Transportation Commission, Chapter 11 Procurement of Supplies, of the Code of State Regulations. The

Missouri Highways and Transportation Commission (MHTC/Commission), acting by and through its operating arm, the Missouri Department of Transportation (MoDOT), draws the Offerors attention to said 7

CSR 10-11 for all the provisions governing solicitation and receipt of proposals and the award of the contract pursuant to this solicitation.

1.2. Standard Provisions

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All proposals must be submitted by a responsible officer or employee of the firm. Obligations assumed by such submission must be fulfilled.

1.3. Standard Provisions

MHTC reserves the right to reject any and all proposals for any reason whatsoever. Time is of the essence for responding to the RFP within the submission deadlines.

2. MODOT RFP PROPOSAL CERTIFICATION

2.1. Proposal Certification

The Offeror shall provide a fee proposal to MHTC in accordance with the terms of this Request for Proposal

(RFP). All services shall be performed at the fees offered and in accordance with the terms of this RFP.

2.2. Proposal Certification

By submission of the proposal, each Offeror, and in the case of a joint proposal, each party thereto as to its own organization, under penalty of perjury, certifies to the best of its knowledge and belief:

2.2.1. The prices in this proposal have been arrived at independently without collusion, consultation, communication or agreement for the purpose of restricting competition, as to any matter relating to such prices with any other Offeror or any competitor.

2.2.2. Unless otherwise required by law, the proposed prices have not been knowingly disclosed by the

Offeror prior the opening, directly or indirectly, to any other Offeror or to any competitor.

2.2.3. No attempt has been made or will be made by the Offeror to induce any other person, partnership or corporation to submit or not to submit a proposal for the purpose of restricting competition.

2.2.4. The Offeror certifies this proposal is made without any connection with any other person, firm, organization or business entity making a proposal for the same purpose, and is in all respects fair and without collusion or fraud, and that no elected official or other member, officer or employee or person whose salary is payable in whole or in part from the MHTC/MoDOT is directly or indirectly interested therein, or in any portion of the profits thereof.

3. MODOT RFP GENERAL DESCRIPTION AND BACKGROUND

3.1. General Description

This document constitutes a RFP from prospective qualified Offerors to provide On the Job

Training Supportive Services - Building Career Opportunities in the Heavy Highway Industry to the

MHTC, as set forth in this RFP. It is the intent of this RFP to have the successful Offeror enter into an Agreement with MHTC (hereinafter Resulting Agreement), to supply said services as outlined herein.

3.2. Background

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MHTC is seeking a qualified Offeror who can provide an increase in the total number of minorities, women, and disadvantaged individuals throughout Missouri and surrounding areas, participating in

Federal-aid highway projects to fulfill the on-the-job training (OJT) positions. It is the intent of this

RFP to have the successful Offeror enter into a Services Agreement with MHTC (hereinafter

“Resulting Agreement”), to supply the OJT Supportive Services as outlined herein.

MoDOT received funding from the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) for OJT/SS, which intended to directly impact the local economy by increasing employment opportunities for minorities, women and economically disadvantaged individuals. The OJT/SS project provides educational experiences to enhance work maturity skills, High School Equivalency (HSE) attainment, tools, equipment and vocational training and national certification to enter long- term employment in highway/heavy construction and any other training programs that will assist minorities, females and economically disadvantaged individuals into the heavy highway industry in

Missouri.

The award of contract(s) for the OJT/SS will be determined and funded by FHWA. An award of the contract for providing the OJT/SS services in the St. Louis area will be made to the successful

Offeror in the amount of $101,830.67. For the purposes of the award of this RFP in the St. Louis area, the St. Louis area will be defined at that geographic area within a 45 mile radius from the

MoDOT St. Louis District Office located at 1590 Woodlake Drive, Chesterfield, MO (hereinafter, “St.

Louis Area”). An award of the contract for providing OJT/SS services in the Kansas City area will be made to the successful Offeror in the amount of $101,830.67. For the purposes of the award of this RFP in the Kansas City area, the Kansas City area will be defined as that geographic area within a 45 mile radius from the MoDOT Kansas City District Office located at 600 NE Colbern

Road, Lee Summit, MO (hereinafter, “Kansas City Area”). An award of the contract for providing

OJT/SS services in all other areas outside of the St. Louis area and the Kansas City area

(hereinafter, “Outstate Area”), will be made in the amount of $101,830.66. The award of the contract pursuant to this RFP may be to multiple vendors based upon the responses received. If one or more of the responses from a designated area (Kansas City, St. Louis, or Outstate) are deemed insufficient to merit a contract award, the MHTC reserves the right to distribute the award among the successful Offeror(s) in their respective area(s) as well as increasing the number of students to be served.

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MoDOT operates as a customer focused and results driven, state agency under a decentralized organization structure with headquarters in Jefferson City, Missouri and is governed by the MHTC, a six (6) member Commission appointed by the Governor. The Central Office provides oversight and support to seven (7) geographical districts primarily responsible for delivery of MoDOTs mission and tangible results. Each district contains approximately fifteen percent (15%) of the total road mileage in the state highway system. MoDOT employs approximately 5,100 full-time employees. About eighty percent (80%) of those employees work in the seven (7) districts with the remainder working in the various divisions within the Central Office facility.

3.3. Contract Period

The Contract Period for the performance of the services described in this RFP is from September 1, 2022 through August 31, 2023. The successful Offeror shall perform any and all the services listed herein as often as requested by MHTC for the entire duration of the Contract Period as defined herein at the

Guaranteed-Not-To-Exceed Prices submitted by the successful Offeror in response to this RFP.

3.4. Renewal Period

The contract shall not bind, not purport to bind, the MHTC for any contractual commitment in excess of the original contract period. The Commission shall have the right, at its sole option, to extend the contract for one (1) year, or any portion thereof. In the event that the Commission exercises its options to extend the contract, such extension must be accomplished by a formal contract amendment approved and signed by representatives of the Contractor and Commission, respectively, each of whom being duly authorized to execute the contract amendment on behalf of the Contractor and Commission, respectively.

3.5. Schedule of Events

Below is the schedule that will be followed. Unless otherwise specified, the time of day will be 7:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Central Time. MHTC reserves the right at its sole discretion to expand this schedule, as deemed necessary, without any notification except for the deadline date for submitting a proposal.

3.5.1. July 6, 2022 - Issuance of RFP.

3.5.2. July 14, 2022 - Deadline for Offerors to submit written questions and requests for clarification to the RFP Contact, Lori Tackett

3.5.3. July 19, 2022 - Issuance of Amendment with resolution to any questions submitted.

3.5.4. August 3, 2022 at 2:00 PM, Central Time - Deadline for submission of proposals and scheduled public reading of firm names of proposals received.

4. MODOT RFP SCOPE OF WORK AND SPECIFIC SERVICES

4.1 Purpose Statement

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An increase of over 5,600 additional positions statewide are projected in Highway/Heavy

Construction Industry through 2026 by the Missouri Economic Research and Information Center

(MERIC). A societal focus on professional or “white collar” careers has steered young people away from labor intensive fields for more than a generation. With the aging of Baby Boomers approaching retirement, this is causing a gap in available labor force. Employers are seeking a labor force that has “soft skills” as well as basic level training.

MoDOT’s Division of External Civil Rights and OJT past award recipients have a record of training and placing successful individuals who have participated in the OJT SS programs. MoDOT has received OJT Supportive Services funds since 1998. The OJT Supportive Services training programs MoDOT has funded provide educational experiences to enhance work maturity or “soft skills”, life skills, computer skills, financial management courses, High School Equivalency (HSE) attainment, career exploration and development, industry certifications, job readiness, job placement assistance in heavy highway construction, mentoring assistance, equipment training, vocational training, commercial driver’s license (CDL) attainment, OSHA-10, and CPR-First Aid certifications. MoDOT would like to continue to utilize OJT Supportive Services funding to increase employment opportunities for minorities, women and economically disadvantaged individuals on

Federal-aid highway projects.

4.2 Statement of Problem

In speaking with multiple stakeholders, including contractors, state workforce development officials, training organizations, and labor organizations, MoDOT has affirmed that there is a continued high need for qualified workers in highway construction. Missouri Economic Research and Information

Center (MERIC) provides occupational projections at the local, regional and state levels. MERIC projects an estimated 5,600 openings in the Highway/Heavy Construction Industry in Missouri through 2026. Without a trained workforce, contractors will be unable to fill openings, reducing their ability to compete for federal-aid highway construction projects.

MoDOT has had success with funding training female, minority, and low-income individuals through local recipients. This training helps to prepare them with basic heavy highway construction skills, as well as soft skills and life skills.

External factors that may risk the program’s success include locating potential students to participate in the program and outside influences such as family commitments that may impede completion of the program. In addition, the award recipient(s) will need to be closely monitored to ensure program goals are met.

4.3 Needs Assessment

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MoDOT plans, designs, constructs and maintains 32,800 miles of highways. Missouri has the seventh largest state highway system in the United States, with more miles than Iowa, Nebraska and Kansas’ systems combined. Missouri’s Statewide Transportation Improvement Plan (STIP) has budgeted approximately $4.6 billion in spending for highway construction projects for 2020 to 2024.

Over the last 10 years, MoDOT has delivered 4,405 projects worth $12.5 billion. These projects were completed 7.1% under budget and 94% on time.

COVID 19 had a substantial impact on unemployment rates in Missouri. The hardest hit were those in entry level and low training fields. Missouri’s unemployment rate averaged 9.8% at the highest, and some counties experienced unemployment rates in excess of 14-15% and up to 22%. Careers in Heavy Highway Construction are considered essential. This would help to ensure income and job security during times when stay at home orders are in place. According to the Missouri

Economic Research and Information Center (MERIC), (https://www.missourieconomy.org/occupations/occ_proj.stm), a projected an increase in construction trades positions through 2026 with the following total numbers of job positions in

Highway/Heavy Construction: Equipment Operators–1,125, Cement Masons–4,840, Electricians–13,011, Carpenters–20,274, Construction Laborers–29,207, Highway Maintenance

Workers–6,283, Ironworkers–384, Painters–7,050, and Construction Managers–5,066.

Moderate on-the-job training is required for the above careers, and the occupational skills set includes: Equipment Maintenance, Instructing, Critical Thinking, Equipment Selection, Operation and Control, Active Listening, Troubleshooting, Speaking, Operation, Monitoring, and Coordination.

Additionally, a Missouri GAP study conducted by MERIC shows the most important competencies and skill requirements that are most important to employers include interpersonal skills, habits, managing time, technical skills, computer literacy and technical training. The shortcomings that applicants have displayed include lack of positive attitude, poor technical skills, poor communication skills, poor work ethic, basic math skills and inability to understand written information.

Currently, the US Census data reports a significant gap between heavy highway construction workers who are white vs. minorities statewide.

https://www.missourieconomy.org/occupations/occ_proj.stm

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Occupati ons

Non-

Minority

Male

Minority Hispanic Black Indian Asian Hawaiian

Two

More

Races

Non-

Minority

Female

Carpente rs 86.6% 12.2% 5.7% 4.5% .4% .3% .1% 1.2% 1.2%

Mason 82.1% 18.1% 5.4% 5.7% .2% .2% .7% 4.9% 1.0%

Laborer 83.1% 14.2% 6.8% 4.8% .5% .3% .3% 1.5% 2.7%

Eq.Oper ator 93.8% 5.1% .5% 3.2% .4% .0% .0% 1.0% 1.1%

Electrici ans 91.6% 6.7% 1.4% 3.4% .5% .2% .1% 1.1% 1.7%

Painters 73.7% 16.9% 10.3% 5.0% .2% .4% 0% 1.0% 9.4%

Ironwork er 84.4% 15.4% 3.5% 6.3% 1.4% 1.4% 0% 2.8% .2%

4.4 Goals and Objectives

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Goal 1: Provide heavy highway hands-on construction skills training and work experiences, industry certifications, and placement, retention and support services to increase skill levels of

100% of enrolled participants.

Objective(s): Recruit and enroll 60 new participants for the reporting period.

Goal 2: Provide HSE test preparation courses and tutoring to enrolled participants with 100% successfully passing the HSE test prior to September 30, 2022.

Objective(s): HSE preparation classes, HSE application process and HSE testing for 60 students.

Goal 3: Provide necessary construction tools and equipment training to 100% of enrolled participants by the end of the reporting period.

Objective(s): Prepare 60 students for construction careers to attain/maintain full or part time employment on Federal-aid highway construction projects by providing tools and training in safe use.

Goal 4: Provide work readiness, computer literacy, financial management and family wellness, health and fitness, OSHA-10, CPR/First Aid, CDL training and flagging training to 100% of the enrolled participants.

Objective(s): 60 students will be provided work readiness, computer literacy, financial, family wellness and health and fitness, CDL training and flagging training to prepare for positions in the heavy highway industry.

Goal 5: Graduate 100% of all participants enrolled during the reporting period.

Objective(s): 100% or 60 of initial enrollees will be successful graduates and ready to be employed on heavy highway projects.

Goal 6: Place 60% of all new enrollees with heavy highway employers. In addition, mentor and monitor 100% of all placements for a period of 6 months from the date of graduation.

Objective(s): 60% or 36 of all graduates will be employed by heavy highway contractors. 100% of all graduates will be monitored to determine employment status and job retention, as well as need for additional training or mentoring.

Goal 7: Provide training, resources, industry certifications, placement, and retention and supportive services such daycare, vehicle repair, advanced training, job searching, interviewing skills, etc. to

12 former graduates of the OJT Supportive Services Program or other similar programs who are currently unemployed/underemployed.

Objective(s): Recruit and enroll 12 former graduates who are currently unemployed for the reporting period.

Construction Career Day Events (CCD)Due to COVID-19 we were not able to utilize all of the

FY2018 and FY19 OJT SS funding designated to CCD events. We are not requesting FY21 OJT

SS funding for CCD events.

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4.5 Scope of Work Narrative with Timetables/Milestones/Services

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The proposed performance period for the deliverance of current OJT Supportive Services program initiative will be one year, dates September 1, 2022 to August 31, 2023. Please note, only a delay in receipt of funds would necessitate deviation from this performance period. Activities of this scope of work are listed below. MoDOT will obligated the funds by July 31, 2022. Unless noted, OJT SS Recipient(s) will deliver services from September 1, 2022 to August 31, 2023.

1. July 1, 2022; MoDOT will select organizations based on the approved SOW award funding through a competitive bid process (RFP) to provide OJT SS services.

2. Select individuals to participate in the OJT SS program including recruitment and registration (on-going) of participants.

3. Participants enrolled in the program will be given an educational experience to enhance work maturity skills, life skills, career exploration and development. Former students will also be served, trained, and placed with heavy highway contractors.

4. OJT SS students attend community fairs and other local events.

5. Identify students lacking high school diploma or HSE. Administer basic skills assessment to determine HSE preparation goals, including practice test and HSE test.

6. Provide job readiness training (JRT).

7. Provide training in safe and accurate use of hand/power tools, construction tools, and blue print reading and demonstrate usage of hand/power tools.

8. Completion of OSHA-10 and CPR/First Aid Certifications.

9. Provide training, resources, career development and placement to former graduates of the OJT SS program or similar program who are currently unemployed.

10. Conduct job development with highway contractors.

11. Placement of participants in internship settings during training.

12. Students attain CDL Permit/License.

13. 23 Graduates enter employment in heavy highway construction.

14. Provide mentoring/follow-up services.

15. Monthly reports prepared for FHWA.

16. Meeting with recipient(s) to discuss monthly report.

17. November 1, 2023; Meeting with recipient to discuss annual report.

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The OJT SS award recipient(s) will actively recruit individuals to participate in the OJT SS program.

The program will focus on placing students in heavy highway jobs. Marketing efforts will include creating brochures, employer meetings, and other public relations activities. JRT will be provided to improve employability, work maturity and life skills. Work readiness and team building skills will also be a part of the program. Past graduates (12) of OJT SS or similar programs through the state will also be recruited throughout the state to determine areas in which they need additional assistance in order to become re-employed in the heavy highway industry. Additional assistance could include additional training, job search assistance, career building, etc.

4.6 Budget Proposal and Financial Requirements

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After MoDOT is notified that the SOW has been approved, a formal Request for Proposal (RFP) will be drafted based upon the items approved in the SOW. MoDOT will solicit requests for three separate RFPs from across the state with the intent to make at least one award in the St. Louis and

Kansas City Districts, and one in the areas outside of the St. Louis and Kansas City area

(outstate). The RFP will be emailed to known or potential groups who would have an interest in responding to the RFP. In addition, the RFP will be posted on MoDOT’s website for at least 15 days. Once the deadline has passed, a formal evaluation will be conducted to determine which recipient(s) will be awarded the funding. MoDOT will highly encourage recipients to list in-kind matching funding to assist in financial support for their programs. MoDOT will award additional points to entities that submit in-kind and matching funding.

Budget Summary

Line Item MoDOT In-Kind Cash Match Requested FHWA

FY 2021

Staff Personnel/Fringe $10,000.00 TBD $87,000.00

Student

Personnel/Fringe

$0.00 TBD $18,000.00

Travel, Childcare $1,000 TBD $15,000.00

Administrative/Office

Expenses

TBD TDB $57,692.00

Tools and Safety

Equipment

TBD TBD $9,000.00

Student Supplies, Basic Tools and

Equipment

TBD TBD $90,000.00

Placement/Retention $0.00 $0.00 $28,800.00

TOTAL 12,000.00 TBD $305,492.00

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Budget Narrative

Personnel will include costs for all staff salary and fringe. Salary for administrative/clerk staff will not be allowed. Personnel/Fringe will not exceed 38% of the total budget. Salaries reimbursed will only include activities directly related to work performed on behalf of the OJT SS program;

therefore, shall be considered a direct cost. Fringe benefits will cover FICA, Worker’s

Compensation, Disability, Life, Health Insurance, and Unemployment Compensation payments.

Client/Student wages will also be allowable to compensate students who work for entities such as

Cities and Counties. The wage will be paid directly to the students for work performed while working. The client/student wage will include wages (at least minimum wage), taxes, FICA and

Worker’s Compensation. The number of hours worked by each student under this line item shall not exceed 120 hours per client/student. The total line item for client/student reimbursement shall not exceed $18,000. If client/student wages are not used under this line item, the $18,000.00 shall be moved to the student training line item. The additional amount cannot be used towards full-time or part-time employees of the award recipient.

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Travel and Childcare costs are requested to cover gas, food, lodging, conference related registrations and certifications for OJT/SS staff during conference travel relating to the OJT

Program. Local travel is included for staff to conduct job development with employers, as well as transportation of staff and participants to worksites, job interviews and training sites. Student travel will cover the cost to transport students to jobsites, interviews, and trainings. Student travel includes fuel and lodging for the first 4 weeks students are placed and working for heavy highway contractors if traveling more than 60 miles one way from their primary residence. Fuel/mileage reimbursement for students traveling to/from work, not to exceed $50 per week for a maximum of

$500 per student. Mileage documentation must be submitted from the student’s home to their work location. Reimbursement rate will be based on the State of Missouri fleet rate of $0.28 per mile.

Meal reimbursement for students will not be allowed. Payrolls must be submitted to verify work location and the number of hours/days worked. In addition, reimbursement will be provided to entities that assist students with minor automobile repair not to exceed $250 per student. Minor repair shall include costs associated with tire repair, minor automobile repair, or roadside assistance. In order to receive reimbursement, students must be working in the heavy highway industry and must have a job secured.

Childcare reimbursement: participants who have exhausted other state and local childcare assistance programs may be reimbursed for childcare expenses for dependent care in Missouri licensed childcare facilities during training and for the first four weeks student are placed in a position after program completion, up to a maximum of $1,000 per student. These line items are considered a direct cost.

Administrative/Office Expenses will include Occupancy – Rent/Leasing Occupancy, utilities, landline telephone expenses and janitorial services. In addition, marketing and advertising, internet service fees, and general office supplies such as copy paper, toner, ink pens and postage.

Marketing is limited to recruiting students for the OJT SS program. No reimbursement for cell phone expenses. This line item is considered a direct cost.

Tools & Safety Equipment is requested for the purchase of tools needed to expand and reinforce the curriculum and training, including but not limited to: general hand tools. Pipe lasers and targets, tripod levels, level rods, smart levels, transit systems, builder’s transit, digital levels, and rotary laser levels. Any equipment purchased that has a value exceeding $1,000 would be required to be returned to MoDOT upon completion of the funding year. The equipment would be returned to

MoDOT no longer than 30 days after the performance period ended. These line items are considered a direct cost.

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Student Supplies/Training will include tools to be purchased for graduates for use in their employment in the Highway/Heavy Construction field. Tools include, but are not limited to: sledge hammers, levels, tool pouch, angle square, wrecking bar, and concrete tool kits. In addition, text books, manuals, and testing material to obtain certifications and training knowledge of the heavy highway industry. Protective Gear includes but is not limited to: weather appropriate steel toed boots, reflective vests, hard hats, gloves, goggles and earplugs for students and staff. No blue jeans, uniform pants or t-shirts will be eligible for reimbursement. Drug Awareness Training, CPR

& First-Aid Certification, OSHA Certification, Flagging Certification Training and Commercial

Driver’s License training, including CDL license and permit fees. Certifications must be attained by students in these areas or reimbursement will not be eligible. Pre-approved annual dues for student related OJT SS programs. Training and education of employees in the area of the program. Random preliminary drug testing and laboratory confirmations for all students, as well as a medical screening (physicals) for all new students to ensure that they are physically equipped to work in heavy highway construction. Meeting and graduation supplies (excluding food). Childcare assistance for approved daycare facilities. Computer Software/Hardware Licenses and

Maintenance fees (not for the purchase of new computers, printers, etc.) These line items are considered a direct cost.

Placement and retention funds will be reimbursed to entities that place students in the heavy highway industry and the students are retained in those positions for at least 30 days.

Reimbursement will be given to the entity in the amount of $1,800.00 for every student who is placed and retained for at least 30 days on a MoDOT federal-aid project (a maximum of 4 students in each area of the state). The reimbursement will also apply to any prior trainee, apprentice or journey-level employee that was currently not working and was placed on a federal-aid project.

Documentation of employment retention must be submitted.

4.7 Geographic Location, Target Group, and Emphasis Areas

MoDOT will solicit bids state-wide to administer the OJT SS program. MoDOT intends to make awards to four locations and to select subrecipients in the areas of St. Louis, Kansas City and all other areas outside a 30 mile radius of St. Louis and Kansas City (outstate). Funding will be divided evenly among the three subrecipients in the amounts of $101,830.67 each to St. Louis and

Kansas City areas, and $101,830.66 to an outstate. If one or more of the areas does not respond, then the RFP will award the funding based upon the areas that respond to the RFP. Target groups are females, minorities, and low-income individuals. Females and minorities are underrepresented in the heavy highway construction field.

4.8 Strategic Partners

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MoDOT and FHWA will be partners during the contract performance period. MoDOT will attend and observe classroom and graduation events. In addition, the award recipient(s) may partner with the

Missouri Department of Education to place individuals into the OJT SS programs. The award recipient(s) will be encouraged to also partner with community-based organizations, schools, unions, contractors and the labor industry.

4.9 Project Management

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MoDOT will require the OJT award recipient(s) to submit monthly and annual reports to track progress and achievements. The recipient(s) will be required to submit demographic information gathered for participants that will include gender, age, race, ethnicity and economic status. The following information will be collected monthly and annually:

• Demographics

• # and % attaining HSE

• # and % receiving OSHA-10 certifications

• # and % of students who graduated

• # and % of graduates entering workforce

• # and % of graduates entering federal aid-highway jobs

• # and % that retain job for at least 6 months

• # enrolled (including race, gender, ethnicity)

• # and % receiving CPR/First-Aid certifications

• # and % Commercial Driver’s License/permit

• # and % receiving tools training/experience

MoDOT will also require the recipient to submit to MoDOT on a monthly and annual basis the following:

• Name, address, phone number of each student enrolled in the program. In addition, information regarding the gender, age, race, ethnicity and economic status of each student will also be required.

• Attendance records, progress reports, student counseling reports, drug testing results, monthly achievement reports and appropriate skills assessments. This information will be required to provide the following evaluative information: # of participants enrolled in program, weekly classroom and on-site attendance records for each participant, on-going (weekly) assessment

(both written and performance based) of skills for each participant, weekly evaluation by supervisor and instructor for each participant, weekly student counseling and conference meeting notes identifying strengths, weaknesses, areas in need of improvement, conducted weekly by instructors, supervisors and contractors for each participant.

• The recipient will be required to provide proof of HSE attainment. In addition, documentation will be required to verify all students have a high school diploma or HSE certificate upon completion of the OJT SS program reporting period.

• The award recipient will be required to submit documentation outlining tool or piece of equipment used in training and demonstration to the students. In addition, Student Evaluation forms detailing each participant’s knowledge of safety and handling of tools and equipment will be required.

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• The award recipient will be required to provide documentation showing training and education of students in work readiness, computer literacy, financial management, and drug awareness and counseling. Documentation will include attendance records, skills assessments, bi-weekly computerized progress report of all coursework, work readiness exercises, computer literacy proficiencies, copies of certifications obtained in OSHA, first-aid/CPR, CDL licensing and traffic control flagging for each participant.

• Submission of demographics of participants working full and part time on Federal-aid highway construction worksites, number of graduates enrolled in a Bureau of Apprenticeship Training

(BAT). Documentation to be submitted includes graduate, placement records, and mentoring, monitoring and apprenticeship records.

4.10 Project Staff, Resources, and In-Kind Contributions

MoDOT personnel that will be involved in the OJT SS program include the Manager, one Civil

Rights Specialist, and the Administrative Assistant. The award recipient staff will include a Director and other staff members that will assist in implementing the program. MoDOT will request the award recipient provide a detailed listing of personnel and all in-kind funding.

4.11 Period of Performance

The period of performance is September 1, 2022 to August 31, 2023. MoDOT will make selection of organizations to provide OJT SS services by July 30, 2022. Services detailed in Section 4.5, Scope of Work, will begin August 1, 2022 and conclude by August 31, 2023, with an annual report date with recipient(s) October 1, 2023.

4.12 Performance Measures

Recipients will report to MoDOT monthly. Monthly reports will include information listed under

Section 4.9, Program Management. Other documentation includes attendance records, demographic information of participants, copies of certificates obtained, skills assessments, progress reports, master records of training, drug screens, HSE test scores, etc.

4.12.1. Number of Individuals Affected: The program will serve a total of 72 individuals. 20 new participants from each area served by the recipient(s), and 4 who have previously completed the program or one similar and are unemployed for additional services to return to work. Hiring and retention outcomes will be reported and supported by documentation from hiring employer.

4.12.2. Performance Metrics: Recipients will provide certificates, attendance and training records, test scores, and progress reports to MoDOT. Recipient will also provide a marketing plan, orientation and intake documentation, JRT curriculum, file notes, meeting notes, placement tracking forms and records, resumes and certificates for instructional staff, and other necessary documentation.

4.13 Evaluation and Monitoring Plan

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The OJT SS award recipient(s) will submit monthly reports no later than the 10th day of each month. The (annual) final report will be submitted within 15 days following the last month of the project. As noted above, data will be gathered on an ongoing basis throughout the project period.

The award recipient(s) monthly and annual reports will include the programs progress, problems and possible solutions. In addition, a detailed account of the accomplishments for the month (or year) will be required. This will include identifying the number of individuals trained and placed in heavy highway construction positions. Also, information regarding the participant’s race, gender, ethnicity and job classification will also be required in the reports. Any concerns identified and resolutions implemented will also be included in the report. Recommendations for improvement of the program will also be addressed. The recipient will be required to list any other items that they feel may have an impact on their OJT SS program.

The recipient will be required to submit the following forms with the monthly reports:

• Student enrollment form

• Class completion form

• OSHA certification tracking form (with certificate of completions)

• First-Aid/CPR tracking form (with certificate of completions)

• Flagging/Traffic Control tracking form (with certificate of completions)

• HSE Tracking form (with certificate of completions)

• Student tools/equipment evaluation form

• Student (newly recruited) placement and retention tracking form

• Training received by former graduates

After each monthly report is submitted, MoDOT will conduct a meeting with the recipient(s) to discuss the contents of the report and provide necessary feedback and guidance as needed.

MoDOT will submit monthly and annual reports by the 20th of each month to the Missouri FHWA

Division Office. The reports will be submitted in narrative format outlining the success of each award recipient(s). The report will include tasks accomplished, lessons learned and statistical data regarding enrollment, graduation (at least six months after graduation) and placement data. In addition, MoDOT will have contact information for each graduate and will make follow-up contact with each individual. MoDOT will provide to FHWA information on each graduate that includes the student’s name, company they are employed with, and the craft they are employed in.

MoDOT will also identify issues and concerns during the duration of the program by conducting monthly meetings with award recipient(s) to review and address barriers and successes. In addition, MoDOT will conduct on-site visits of each award recipient(s) during the duration of each program.

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MoDOT will request entities submit quarterly reports for a period of two years after the reporting and contract period. The quarterly reports will track and maintain records on graduates regarding job placement and employment status.

4.14 Final Deliverables

MoDOT requires recipient(s) to provide monthly and annual reports detailed in above sections.

Other requirements are recruitment, marketing, and class materials, and reports tracking employment of graduates of the program. MoDOT will request recipient(s) submit quarterly reports for a period of two years after the reporting and contract period. The quarterly reports will track and maintain records on graduates regarding job placement and employment status. MoDOT will provide to FHWA information on each graduate that includes the student’s name, company they are employed with, and the craft in which they are employed.

5. MODOT RFP REQUIRED ELEMENTS OF PROPOSAL AND

SUBMISSION

5.1. Required Elements of Proposal

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Each Offeror shall provide a cover letter signed by an authorized firm representative stating he/she has read and understands all of the terms and conditions of doing business with

MHTC in response to this request for proposal. The proposal must be divided into sections corresponding to the list of elements described below.

5.1.1. Experience, Expertise and Reliability - With regard to documenting its experience, expertise, and reliability in performing the requested services, the Offeror must provide information related to previous and current contractual relationships considered identical or similar in scope to the one anticipated to result between MHTC and the successful Offeror pursuant to this RFP. At a minimum, the following information must be provided:

5.1.1.1. Name, address, telephone number of contracting agency/entity, and a contact person who can verify all data submitted.

5.1.1.2. Contract dates.

5.1.1.3. A brief, written description of the specific services provided, methods used, and the results associated with the specific services provided.

5.1.1.4. List of any pending legal action(s) involving your firm that could directly or indirectly impact the services provided to MHTC.

5.1.2. Proposed Method of Performance - Each Offeror must present a written narrative demonstrating the method and/or manner in which it proposes to satisfy the requirements of this

RFP. The language of the narrative shall be straightforward and limited to facts, solutions to the problems, and plans of proposed action as well as the timeline for completion of proposed action.

5.1.2.1. By reading the proposal, MHTC must be able to gain a comfortable grasp of the services to be provided and the methods proposed by the Offeror to provide them. A detailed explanation should be included to understand how the services comply with the requirements of this RFP.

5.1.2.2. In order to show feasibility, a timetable setting forth appropriate milestones shall be included in Offeror's proposal, with sufficient detail explaining how Offeror will meet those timelines/milestones.

5.1.3. Recommendations from References - Proposals should indicate the name, title and telephone number of at least five officials of clients, students, partners or stakeholders. The proposal may also include letters of support from references. See Exhibit 5.

5.1.4. In-kind Contributions and Cash Match Funding - Please describe all in-kind contributions or cash match that will be utilized. Indicate the name of entity, amount of funding, detailed explanation of the type of services to be provided. See Exhibit 6.

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5.1.5. Partnerships/Collaboration - Please describe all partnerships or collaboration with industry entities such as labor organizations, unions, and/or contractors that will be utilized. Indicate the name of entity, detailed explanation of the type of services to be provided, or the extent of the partnership/collaboration. See Exhibit 7.

5.1.6. Past success with placement and retention with heavy highway contractors - See Exhibit 8.

5.1.7. The proposals will be evaluated based on the adequacy of the Offerors response in addressing each of the Required Elements of the Proposal listed above as well as any other evaluation methods referenced in this RFP.

5.2. Submission of Proposals

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5.2.1. Electronic Proposal Format - If a registered vendor is responding electronically through the MissouriBUYS System website, in addition to completing the on-line pricing, the registered vendor should submit completed exhibits, forms, and other information concerning the proposal as an attachment to the electronic proposal. The registered vendor is instructed to review the RFP submission provisions carefully to ensure they are providing all required pricing, including applicable renewal pricing. Instructions on how a registered vendor responds to a bid on-line are available on the MissouriBUYS System website at: https://missouribuys.mo.gov/bidboard.html.

In the event that the vendor is an agency of state government or other such political subdivision which is prohibited by law or court decision from complying with certain provisions of an RFP, such vendor may submit a proposal which contains a list of statutory limitations and identification of those prohibitive clauses. The vendor should include a complete list of statutory references and citations for each provision of the RFP, which is affected by this paragraph. The statutory limitations and prohibitive clauses may (1) be requested to be clarified in writing or (2) be accepted without further clarification if the statutory limitations and prohibitive clauses are deemed acceptable.