Heavy Equipment Simulator System

The Michigan Department of Corrections, managed by the Department of Technology, Management and Budget's Financial Services division, is requesting proposals for a heavy equipment simulator system to enhance vocational training opportunities, with proposals due August 26, 2026 at 3:00 p.m. Eastern. Only proposals scoring 80 or more points on a 100-point technical evaluation will have pricing evaluated.

The scope covers combined hardware and software solutions providing immersive training through screens, controls, seats, and scenarios emulating various types of equipment and work settings. The awardee must comply with extensive contract requirements including PREA (Prison Rape Elimination Act) standards, CJIS security requirements, Michigan Department of Corrections–specific data security protocols, and service level agreements. Software licensing may be perpetual, term-based, or subscription-based. The awardee must maintain key personnel including a Project Manager and Security Officer throughout performance.

The contract term extends three years from the effective date with renewal options for up to seven additional one-year periods at the State's sole discretion. Pricing must be submitted separately in Schedule B and remain fixed throughout the contract term with no increases permitted. Contracts valued at $250,000 or greater require State Administrative Board approval.

Evaluation weighs technical criteria at 100 points: Vendor Questions Worksheet (20 points), Personnel Resumes (10 points), Statement of Work (40 points), and Business Specification Worksheet (30 points). The State reserves the right to conduct on-site visits, proof-of-concept meetings, and oral presentations during evaluation.

Questions are due July 29, 2026, with answers posted by August 5, 2026. Bidders must submit a Confidential Treatment Form and complete all required schedules including hardware specifications and system acceptance testing requirements. All proposals become public record immediately upon receipt.