RFP605CO23002726_Oct_28_24_solicitation_doc.pdf

Solicitation Number: RFP605CO23002726

On The Job Training Supportive Services Program

MODOT Request for Proposal (RFPR)

MoDOT - Dept of Transportation

June 02, 2023 - July 12, 2023

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General Header Information

RFP605CO23002726

No. RFP605CO23002726 Title: On The Job Training Supportive Services Program Start Date: June 02, 2023 at 12:00:00 PM CDT End Date: July 12, 2023 at 2:00:00 PM CDT 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 Program - 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 Date of Award through October 31, 2024. 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: Vendor Specified Contact Information: MoDOT - Dept of Transportation

Lori Tackett 830 MoDOT Drive Jefferson City MO, 65109 United States Tel: 573-522-9481 Fax: 573-526-1218 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 Fax: 573-526-1218 Lori.Tackett@modot.mo.gov

Selected Categories:

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Header Custom Fields:

RFP605CO23002726

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 001 The Offerors should acknowledge receipt of Addendum 001 (ONE) by signing and including it with the original response. The due date for receipt of the proposal has not been changed by this

Addendum. The below change/clarification is believed to be of general interest to all potential

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

The following question(s) were emailed to the Buyer of Record:

Question 1:Please help me understand if CDL training is a mandatory component of the on-the-job services expected to be performed by a vendor. Several heavy highway construction trades identified in the proposal do not require a CDL license. If a CDL license is needed, could the vendor offer the training to specified individuals without having all individuals take the training which can take upwards of three weeks?

RESPONSE: See Section 4.5 Scope of Work Narrative with Timetables/Milestones/Services, No.

12 states, “Students attain CDL Permit/License.”

Addendum 002 http://www.mo.gov/privacy-policy/

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The Offerors should acknowledge receipt of Addendum 002 (TWO) by signing and including it with the original response. The due date for receipt of the proposal has not been changed by this

Addendum. The below change/clarification is believed to be of general interest to all potential

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

The following question(s) were emailed to the Buyer of Record:

QUESTION 1: In section 4.7, the RFP says the 4 programs will be in a 30-mile radius of St. Louis or Kansas City. Does this mean we could not apply for a Columbia/Jefferson City program even though it is along I-70? Submission is mentioned throughout the proposal, we anticipate applying for a training contract for both KC, St. Louis, and Mid Missouri. Do those need to be in three separate submissions?

RESPONSE: If one organization is proposing multiple locations, one proposal outlining all possible locations will suffice. Please be sure to submit an appropriate budget proposal as a whole, but also broken down for individual locations.

QUESTION 2: To clarify, can one proposal response contain information about all three locations or do the responses need to be specific to the location and separated?

RESPONSE: See response to question 1.

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Solicitation Requirements:

RFP605CO23002726

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. Solicitation Authority

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 Offeror's 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. Proposals to be Submitted by Officer or Employee

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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. MHTC Rights Reserved

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.

1.4 Personal Privacy Protection Act Notification

MHTC and MoDOT comply with all provisions in the Personal Privacy Protection Act found in section 105.1500, RSMo, and follow practices to keep confidential and sensitive information secure. Bidders acknowledge that submission of information is voluntary and that MHTC is not asking or requiring the submission of “personal information” as defined in the act. By submitting a bid, Bidders and Contractors agree to not to bring a suit against MHTC, or any employees, under section 105.1500, RSMo.

2. MODOT RFP PROPOSAL CERTIFICATION

2.1. Fee Proposal

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. Offeror's Certifications

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 to 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

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

Training Supportive Services Program - 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 $61,666.67. 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 $61,666.67. 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 $61,666.66. 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 MoDOT's mission and tangible results. Each district contains approximately fifteen percent (15%) of the total road mileage in the state highway system. MoDOT employs approximately five thousand one hundred (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 Date of

Award through October 31, 2024. 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. June 2, 2023 - Issuance of RFP.

3.5.2. June 28, 2023 - Deadline for Offerors to submit written questions and requests for clarification to the RFP Contact, Lori Tackett

3.5.3. June 30, 2023 - Issuance of Amendment with resolution to any questions submitted.

3.5.4. July 12, 2023 at 2:00 PM, Central Time - Deadline for submission of proposals and scheduled public reading of firm names of proposals received.

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4. MODOT RFP SCOPE OF WORK AND SPECIFIC SERVICES

4.1 Purpose Statement

According to the AGC of Missouri, 80% of construction firms in the state reported difficulty in filling hourly craft positions. Missouri Economic Research and Information Center (MERIC) lists

Construction Laborers as 7.6% of total job postings in the state of Missouri. 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 External Civil Rights Division 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 SS 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 SS 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 individuals 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 jobs were those in entry level and low training fields. Missouri’s unemployment rate peaked at 12.5% in April of 2020 and the latest current figure was 4.0% in August of 2021. According to the Missouri

Economic Research and Information Center (MERIC), (https://www.missourieconomy.org/occupations/occ_proj.stm), Construction Laborers positions comprise 7.6% of total job postings in the state of Missouri. The AGC of Missouri website surveyed construction firms and 80% report difficulty in filling hourly craft positions.

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.

Operator 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 erer 84.4% 15.4% 3.5% 6.3% 1.4% 1.4% 0% 2.8% .2%

4.4 Goals & 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. 12 Participants will need to be utilized in each of the 3 areas. If service areas are combined and additional funding is awarded, 2 vendors would need to train 18 participants each.

Objective(s): Recruit and enroll 36 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 31, 2024.

Objective(s): HSE preparation classes, HSE application process and HSE testing for 36 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 36 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): 36 participants 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 90% of all participants enrolled during the reporting period.

Objective(s): 90% or 32 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 21 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 3 former graduates of the OJT Supportive Services Program or other similar programs who are currently unemployed/underemployed.

Objective(s): Recruit and enroll 3 former graduates who are currently unemployed for the reporting period.

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 November 1, 2023 to October 31, 2024. 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 1, 2023. Unless noted, OJT SS Recipient(s) will deliver services from November 1, 2023 to October 31, 2024.

1. August 1, 2023; 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 30, 2024; 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 (3) 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 & 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

FY2022

Staff Personnel/Fringe $10,000.00 TBD $56,184.00

Student

Personnel/Fringe

$0.00 TBD $12,333.00

Travel, Childcare

Assistance

$1,000.00 TBD $14,700.00

Administrative/Office

Expenses

TBD TBD $21,000.00

Tools and Safety

Equipment

TBD TBD $12,000.00

Student Supplies, Basic Tools

Equipment, & Training

TBD TBD $68,783.00

TOTAL $11,000.00 TBD $185,000.00

Budget Narrative

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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 $12,333.00. If client/student wages are not used under this line item, the funds 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.

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.

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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.

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:

sledgehammers, levels, tool pouch, angle square, wrecking bar, and concrete tool kits. In addition, textbooks, 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). Computer

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

4.7 Geographic Location, Target Groups, & 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 among the three subrecipients in the amounts of two at $61,666.67 in the St. Louis and

Kansas City areas, and one at $61,666.66 in 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.

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4.8 Strategic Partners

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 • # enrolled (including race, gender, ethnicity)

•# and % attaining HSE • # and % receiving CPR/First-Aid certifications

•# and % receiving OSHA-10 certifications • # and % Commercial Driver’s License/permit

•# and % of students who graduated • # and % receiving tools training/experience

•# and % of graduates entering workforce

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

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

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, & In-Kind Contributions

MoDOT personnel that will be involved in the OJT SS program include the Division Director, 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 November 1, 2023 to October 31, 2024. MoDOT will make selection of organizations to provide OJT SS services by August 1, 2023. Services detailed in Section I, Scope of Work, will begin November 1, 2023 and conclude by October 31, 2024, with an annual report date with recipient(s) November 30, 2024.

4.12 Performance Measures

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

Section M, 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.

1.Number of Individuals Affected: The program will serve a total of 36 individuals. Twelve new participants from each area served by the recipient(s), and 1 in each area 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. If one vendor is awarded additional funding the number of students will increase based upon the increased award amount.

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 & 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 graduate. 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.

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.

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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 3.

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 4.

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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 5.

5.1.6. Past success with placement and retention with heavy highway contractors. See Exhibit 6.

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 an Offeror (referred to here as registered vendor or…