Sole Source Justification Letter_Nida Trainers.pdf

DEPARTMENT OF THE AIR FORCE

AIR EDUCATION AND TRAINING COMMAND

14 April 2025

MEMORANDUM FOR 82 CONS/PKA

FROM: 363 TRS/TRR

SUBJECT: Sole Source Requirements Justification

1. Description of the Supplies/Services: The 363rd TRS/TRR is requesting the purchase of the NIDA Model 130ST Trainer and Learning Management System (LMS). This versatile, three-position electronics training platform supports hands-on, performance-based technical education. The Model 130ST Trainer utilizes interchangeable circuit card assemblies, enabling a range of educational opportunities from basic to advanced electronics principles in aviation maintenance. The trainer is compatible with various instructional methods, including computer-based training, tablet interfaces, online learning, and lab manuals. It manages voltages, current, and fault conditions during hands-on experiments with real test equipment. The integrated LMS tracks student progress, delivers content, administer assessments, and provides detailed analytics.

2. Efforts to Obtain Competition: NIDA Corporation is the only organization found during market research that delivers the specific combination of instructional tools and LMS capability.

While competitors like Amatrol Corporation (with its 990-ELE1) and Lab-Volt (with its 9100) electronics trainers these trainers lack the versatility of the NIDA trainer. Furthermore, their curriculum focuses heavily on industrial equipment electronics, which would necessitate additional purchases of test equipment and curriculum not required by the 363rd TRS courses.

In addition, NIDA Corporation has been entrusted with providing these trainers and LMS to other United States Air Force organizations and the United States Navy.

3. Market Research: This sole source request is for equipment and software required to provide a streamlined instructional process that will improve learning outcomes for airman in the 2W1X1 career field. In addition, this equipment and software meets the competency based training requirements established by AETC and the 2W1X1 Career Field Manager. No other sources have been able to provide this type of service.

4. Other Factors: Opting for a sole source provider that provides both the equipment and LMS, accelerates the implementation process. Such providers have extensive experience in dealing with common challenges and pitfalls associated with utilizing this specific equipment and LMS in a competency-based training environment. A sole source provider with a comprehensive understanding of the importance of hands-on training in a competency-based training environment ensures that every aspect of the equipment and LMS meets the highest standards quality standards of the United States Air Force. Additionally, The government contacted Nida on 10 April and the company confirmed that for the government, Nida Products can only be provided by Nida, making Nida a sole source for these trainers.

5. A Statement Of The Actions, If Any, The Agency May Take To Remove Or Overcome Any Barriers To Competition Before Making Subsequent Acquisitions For The Supplies Or Services Required. N/A

KEVIN M. HUWEL, Lt Col, USAF Commander, 363d Training Squadron

1st Ind, 82 CONS/PKA

The above justification is accurate and complete to the best of my knowledge and belief.

Contracting Officer

2d Ind, 82 CONS/PKA

Approved/Disapproved

Kyle J. Contreras Chief, 82 CONS

1558292977C Cross-Out