More information on this nominee
Excellence in Acquisition Workforce Management Award 2006
Nominee: Federal Highway Administration
Office of Acquisition Management
During Fiscal Year 2006, the FHWA Office of Acquisition Management (HAAM) has engaged in an effective effort to provide an assortment of improved acquisition-related services to both internal and external customers. At the core of these services is the acquisition of goods, complex research and development, and services in support of FHWA Headquarters programs; management and oversight of an extensive FHWA-wide grant and cooperative agreement program; and the promulgation of Agency-wide policy and guidance for greater effectiveness and efficiency across the Agency and throughout the Department of Transportation (DOT). In addition to new skills and competencies, HAAM has devoted significant resources toward reconstituting some of its core technical competencies in the acquisition arena. HAAM has structured its approach through four carefully developed initiatives: 1) establishing comprehensive and consistent acquisition policy throughout the FHWA; 2) providing mechanisms for effective involvement and oversight in the total acquisition process; 3) establishing efficient organizational processes; and 4) building a diverse, well-informed, well-equipped acquisition team. HAAM has been successful in approaching this in a manner that supports FHWA's strategic goals in the areas of Safety, Mobility and Productivity, Global Connectivity, Environment, National Security, and Organizational Excellence. A wider range of award instruments has increased the extent of regulatory coverage, requiring HAAM's staff to possess a much broader set of skills. HAAM has redefined itself in the ways necessary to continuously address this challenge through an effective office reorganization. HAAM has taken a broader role of ensuring that the entirety of the HAAM team is engaged in more efficient methods to accomplish effective acquisitions by promoting advanced acquisition planning through the conduct of quarterly meetings with program office customers. Finally, HAAM is working with the Department to complete a warrant policy that guides appointing officials in the selection and appointment of contracting officers throughout the Agency.