RFP 2026-1 Space Industry Training - AIDT

The Alabama Industrial Development Training (AIDT), a division of the Alabama Department of Commerce, is requesting proposals for a Space Industry Training Program serving Alabama's aerospace and defense workforce, with proposals due August 31, 2026 at 5:00 p.m. CDT and questions due August 17, 2026 at 5:00 p.m. CDT.

The scope encompasses curriculum development and delivery of foundational and applied training across space operations, aerospace manufacturing, engineering principles, quality systems, safety culture, and professional development. Training must serve entry-level technicians through executive leadership and be adaptable to employer needs. Delivery methods include self-paced online instruction, live virtual instruction, instructor-led classroom training, and hybrid formats. Proposals must include detailed pricing per course and per participant, inclusive of all implementation, platform access, hosting, and standard support costs, plus five-year pricing projections. Successful proposers must demonstrate expertise in space industry technical training, knowledge of current industry certifications and competency standards, and experience delivering customized workforce development programs. Three references from comparable entities, resumes for key instructors, and examples of previously delivered comparable training are required.

The contract term runs one year commencing on the effective date through the end of the 2026-2027 academic year, with AIDT retaining the right to terminate with thirty days' notice for contract violations.

Evaluation criteria are experience and organizational capability (40 percent weight), quality and relevance of proposed training programs (30 percent), cost (20 percent), and understanding of and responsiveness to the RFP (10 percent). All prospective suppliers must be registered in Alabama Buys at award, provide proof of E-Verify enrollment, comply with federal and state immigration laws, and certify compliance with Alabama boycott laws. Vendors must complete a State of Alabama Vendor Disclosure Statement identifying prior state work, grants, consultant relationships, and any financial benefits to public officials, with violations subject to civil penalties of $10,000 or 10 percent of contract amount, whichever is less.