Heavy Equipment Simulator System

The Michigan Department of Corrections is requesting proposals for a heavy equipment simulator system designed to enhance vocational training, with proposals due August 26, 2026 at 3:00 p.m. Eastern and questions due July 29, 2026 at 3:00 p.m. Eastern.

The scope encompasses multi-equipment simulator platforms with common hardware and multiple software modules capable of simulating construction equipment such as excavators, skid steer loaders, and wheel loaders. The system must support two simultaneous student stations plus one instructor station at each facility. Vendors must provide detailed specifications for display capabilities, physical controls, equipment dimensions compatible with standard doorways and electrical installation, and complete timelines for hardware delivery, assembly, installation, and commissioning within 120 calendar days of contract execution. Instructor training using train-the-trainer methodology must be delivered, in-person or remotely, with vendor staff present onsite for final installation and initial setup. The state anticipates purchasing two initial simulator units, possibly from different vendors, with potential expansion to additional facilities beyond the identified location at Handlon Correctional in Ionia, Michigan.

The contract term is three years from the effective date, with an option to renew for up to seven additional one-year periods at the State's sole discretion. Contracts valued at $250,000 or greater require approval by the State Administrative Board. Evaluation will be weighted as follows: Vendor Questions Worksheet (20 points), Resume Templates (10 points), Statement of Work (40 points), and Business Specification Worksheet (30 points), with a minimum threshold of 80 points required for pricing evaluation. The State will consider qualified disabled veteran-owned business (QDV/SDVOB) status under MCL 18.1261(8) and will evaluate total cost of ownership factors including transition and training costs.

All contractor and subcontractor staff with potential Criminal Justice Information (CJIS) access must sign the CJIS Security Addendum. PREA National Standards compliance applies. The anticipated contract begin date is TBD.