NEW CUMBERLAND, Pa. –
Defense Logistics Agency Distribution hosted a virtual Industry Day June 9 with over 180 industry representatives from 33 states participating. The event’s focus was to help industry partners do business with DLA Distribution and to encourage an open dialogue and exchange of information and ideas.
In his opening remarks, DLA Distribution Deputy Commander, Perry Knight, Senior Executive Service, highlighted the importance of establishing and maintaining connections between civilian and government agencies.
“What this last year has proven is our ability to remain resilient and to keep our focus on our critical mission. I will tell you that we could not have accomplished that without each and every one of you,” said Knight to the industry partners gathered virtually from around the nation.
DLA Distribution scheduled a robust day of virtual informative sessions to enlighten industry partners on DLA Distribution’s strategic and operational objectives.
“We look a little different this year, but we’re committed to having an Industry Day for you,” said Acting DLA Distribution Acquisition Director, Meg Ross.
Ross went on to provide an overview of DLA Distribution Acquisition, explaining that solicitations are advertised at SAM.gov – search for DLA Distribution under DODAAC SP3300. She highlighted that over 94% of DLA Distribution’s contracts are competitively bid. In fiscal year 2020, the agency established over $240 million contracted services, mostly in warehousing, material handling equipment maintenance and janitorial services for DLA Distribution’s 24 worldwide locations.
Briefings from DLA leaders and subject matter experts included an overview of what’s new in DLA Acquisition by DLA Deputy Director for Acquisition, Roxanne Banks, SES. Banks lauded the DLA Distribution Acquisition team’s efforts in establishing the many contracts necessary for DLA’s COVID-19 support to federal agencies. She also reviewed results of the most recent DLA supplier survey, which indicate the agency’s trustworthiness has increased over the last few years.
For additional information on the supplier survey, please go to the survey landing page https://www.dla.mil/Info/strategicplan/IndustryEngagementPlan/SupplierFeedbackSurvey/.
Afternoon virtual breakout sessions included a discussion on audit advancement. With DLA Distribution accountable for $105 billion of military service and DLA owned material, industry partners were asked to ensure kind, count and condition of material, as well as all packaging and labeling specifications are met.
In addition, the audience heard about DLA Distribution’s most recent modernization efforts, cyber security, contract law and ethics and an overview of the Procurement Technical Assistance Center presented by PTAC Distribution Operations Representative Robert Brown.
According to Knight, DLA Distribution Industry Day is the organization’s way of improving communication, increasing efficiency and building relationships with new partners.