Acquisition Internship School
About the School
The award-winning Acquisition Internship School (AIS) offers two cohort-based training programs for those interested in federal acquisitions, preparing participants for entry-level federal contract specialist positions in the VA and other agencies. Founded in 2008, AIS has developed innovative practices to help graduates thrive.
The redesigned 11-month program features a hybrid approach with 50% Virtual Instructor Led Training (VILT) and 50% in-person training at the VA Acquisition Academy in Frederick, MD. Participants travel to Frederick, MD on government travel orders. The program includes formal contracting instruction, experiential learning labs, professional development, and on-the-job training (OJT), which constitutes about 60% of the program. Guest speakers also share industry insights to enhance engagement. Interns apply classroom learning through OJT, becoming more competent and confident with each block of training, and impacting their organization positively. Graduates fulfill all educational requirements for Federal Acquisition Certification in Contracting (FAC-C) Professional. A signed Mobility Statement is required.
Acquisition Internship Program
The AIP includes formal instruction in contracting, our unique experiential learning lab skill-building workshops, professional development, and on-the-job training (OJT –approximately 60% of the program time) interspersed throughout the program. Other elements include guest speakers to share industry insights to increase employee engagement. At the conclusion of each classroom training block, interns return to an acquisition organization for on-the-job training to apply what they learned in the classroom. Interns return to the VA acquisition workforce more competent and confident after each training block to have an immediate positive impact on their organization’s workload. Interns graduating from the program satisfy all educational requirements for Federal Acquisition Certification in Contracting (FAC-C) Professional. Requires a signed Mobility Statement.
Training
Contracting interns participate in a rigorous, holistic hybrid training program leading to a certification in contracting. For 11 months, interns receive all the training necessary to attain the Federal Acquisition Certification in Contracting (FAC-C) Professional, Federal Acquisition Certification in Contracting (FAC-C). Interns rotate between three academy-based training (ABT) periods and on the job training (OJT) periods. After each training period, the interns return to their hiring organization more competent and have an immediate positive impact in their organization’s workload.
Components
| Course | Description |
|---|---|
| Contracting Courses (CON) | FAC-C required training focused on Federal Acquisition Policies and Regulations. |
| Professional Courses (PROF) | Training focused on FAI’s professional competencies such as leadership, program management, team building, and interpersonal skills. |
| Contract Writing System Training | Specific training on VA’s electronic contract writing system, processes, and procedures. |
| On-the-Job Training (OJT) | Practical, hands-on experience applying knowledge and skills in the acquisition environment. Guided by seasoned professionals, interns are integrated into the day to day operations of a contracting office. |
Collaborate.Lead.Influence.Motivate.Build (CLIMB) Leadership Program
CLIMB is a two-week introductory leadership program designed for the acquisition workforce. The CLIMB program is designed for participants to build a foundational leadership skillset, incorporate critical thinking through systems thinking, create a culture of learning and accountability, and develop confidence to drive outcomes using interpersonal skills. The class culminates with participants delivering a brief individual presentation on how specific assigned leadership skills may be applied to benefit their leadership journey and team.
CLIMB launched in April 2021 with great success and has been delivered to over 400 participants from many government agencies including VA, Department of Energy, Department of Justice, Department of Transportation, General Services Administration, National Aeronautics and Space Administration, National Institute for Health, National Park Service, and Department of Treasury. It is also a required class for FAI’s Mid-Level Leadership Credential and offered as part of the VA Acquisition Academy’s Program Management Fellows Program. Currently, open registration for VA participants occurs on Cornerstone on Demand. Supervisors of interested participants from other agencies should contact FAI Program Manager Jordan Manos to request additional information.
CLIMB Participant Feedback
“Great class. I think the topic is worth sharing to all employees not just leaders and those seeking leadership positions. I think CLIMB (information & the way it was presented) can be a stepping stone to improved relationships between workers and (low-mid level) leaders. The more the employee understands the big picture and mission of leadership, I think it will empower all employees to set and strive to do and be better.”
“I am honored to be the first in being part of the piloting of this course. The feedback received from the class overall will help bridge gaps on the participants and provide a means to reflect on their leadership style, to enable them to learn, grow, lead, influence others, motivate others and build an even better leadership Acquisition Workforce.”
“I cannot say enough good things about this course! Before every course I think everyone has the questions of, what’s it going to be like, how’s it going to work and etc. The CLIMB Team completely to those anxious feelings away that first day. What I loved about this course is how it was structured. With virtual classes a lot of times it’s hard to draw that line in the sand and pull yourself away from work. For me, on Day 1, that line was drawn in the sand, and that is due to how the course was structured. The active engagement, participation, independent time, group time were just key to having this course be successful and I am just truly appreciative of that. This structure felt like we were in a physical classroom and not virtual. Great job! I’m leaving feeling refreshed and recharged and excited to get to back and begin implementing what I learned!”
Purpose
Why are we CLIMB-ing?
In 2019, the Secretary of Veterans Affairs signed a memo asking all VA team members to be active participants in their professional development. This sparked an initiative to further invest in talent at VA with strategic and impactful professional development programs. Members of the Talent Development Council (TDC), along with learning leaders across VA, inspired by OPM Leadership Competencies, ICARE Values and Servant Leadership Principles, created the Leadership Development Framework (LDF) with the goal of fostering a continuous learning culture.
The LDF identifies five key leadership levels: Emerging Leader (leading self), Team Leader (leading projects), First Line Supervisors (leading teams), Manager (leading programs) and Senior Leader (leading organizations).
VAAA already offers leadership training via the SALT program at the First Line Supervisor and Manager levels of the LDF. Senior leaders and the career field have been requesting an introductory leadership training for years in order to foster a culture of accountability and continual learning. The CLIMB program seeks to define and grow the OPM Leadership competencies identified at the LDF’s Emerging Leader and Team Leader level:
- Accountability
- Continual Learning
- Decisiveness
- Influencing/Negotiating
- Integrity/Honesty
- Interpersonal Skills
- Problem Solving
- Team Building
Eligibility
Who is eligible for CLIMB?
People who want to make a difference and start leading from where they are!
CLIMB is geared to GS-11 – GS-13 members of the Acquisition Workforce.
CLIMB participants are highly interested in taking what they learn about foundational leadership concepts and applying their own strengths, traits, and experience in order to determine how they can lead from where they are to best serve the agency mission, their customer, and their career goals. The program involves active participation and collaboration; therefore, participants must be available fulltime throughout the two-week duration.
The Contracting Professional School at the Veterans Affairs Acquisition Academy has developed the leadership training to meet acquisition workforce needs beyond CLIMB’s GS 11-13 audience. The FCL-VA-0207 Finding the Leader in You (FLY) class meets the needs of GS 7-9 members of the acquisition workforce and the award-winning SALT leadership program meets the needs of Supervisory 1102s and Program/Project Managers.
Structure
Who is eligible for CLIMB?
People who want to make a difference and start leading from where they are!
The program combines 10 days of instructor-led virtual sessions emphasizing class discussion and collaboration with independent assignments using Blackboard Learn and an online textbook.
Participants take quizzes every day and submit assignments for credit. The program culminates in brief individual presentations centered on how the foundational leadership competencies can be applied for each individual to lead from where they are.
Example of daily schedule:
- Hour 1: Live classroom session
- Hour 2: 10-minute break and live classroom session
- Hour 3: Independent assignment (quiz, reading, questionnaire, etc.)
- Hour 4: Lunch
- Hour 5: Live classroom session
- Hour 6: 10-minute break followed by live classroom session
- Hours 7 and 8: Independent assignments (quiz, reading, questionnaire, etc.)
Senior Acquisition Leadership Training (SALT)
Join the award-winning SALT program
SALT is the #1 ranked public sector recipient of the Learning100! Award by Elearning! Magazine. SALT is also a recipient of the LEAD Award for leadership excellence.
This cohort-based development program for Supervisory 1102s, 1102 Team Leads, Program/Project Managers and Contracting Officer’s Representatives (CORs) is designed to move the emphasis from technical to leadership competencies, creating leaders who are agile, understand themselves and others, think critically and strategically to get results, communicate effectively, and are able to manage and lead change. Possessing these skills will allow individuals to manage where they are now, while readying themselves for the future. The program provides a multimodal experience of instructor-led courses, social learning platforms, and interactive real-world application. The program culminates in team Capstone projects centered on applying program learnings to address identified acquisition leadership challenges. These projects will be sponsored by Senior Leaders. Throughout the SALT Program, there are numerous opportunities for cross-organizational information exchange, peer relationship building, direct engagement with Senior Leaders as teachers, and ongoing collaboration and innovation.
SALT Participant Feedback
“The SALT Program challenges both emerging and experienced leaders to mindfully develop as leaders through training, coaching, and collaboration. By pairing this intensive learning with a final Capstone Project, participants are offered the opportunity to showcase their enhanced skills, demonstrating their ability to apply high level, theoretical learning to actual VA scenarios. It is some of the best training I have participated in in my professional career.” ~Erika Cannaday SALT Graduate
“The SALT Program was an unexpected journey into myself and what I bring to the leadership experience. It was an opportunity to learn new skills and practice them as I engaged with new people in teams to address real world challenges proposed by Senior Leadership.” ~Belinda Collingbourne SALT Graduate
Purpose
- An individualized EQ360© development assessment, coupled with expert coaching. The Emotional Quotient (EQ360©) component informs the individual of their ability to recognize and manage emotions when interacting with others, a critical skillset for procurement.
- A connection with Senior Leaders as teachers to gain relevant leadership perspective from their real experiences.
- A keen awareness of your leadership style and tips for working effectively with others across the organization to get results.
- Through strategic thinking, gain deeper insights into organizational and business principles, systems, and strategies needed to drive results and create a positive culture within the acquisition profession and your organization specifically.
- A more nuanced understanding of and targeted approach to stakeholder communications and change management, aligned with broader mission-oriented goals.
- A strategic leadership perspective characterized by leadership and learning agility, enabling you to act quickly and effectively in new, challenging leadership environments. Know what to do…when you don’t know what to do!
Eligibility
SALT is open to Supervisory FAC-C (P) Contracting, FAC-C (P) Contracting Team Lead, Senior Level Program/Project Management Professionals, and FAC-COR III Professionals!
Enrollment in SALT is open to select, high-performing GS-1102s, P/PMs, and CORs who meet the following qualifications:
- Minimum 1102, P/PM, or COR acquisition experience of June 2023 – June 2025 with your current agency (organization could change; a minimum of two consecutive years required) and:
- FAC-C (Professional)
- GS Levels 13 through 15
- Currently in an official supervisory position or
- FAC-C (Professional)
- GS Levels 14 through 15
- Team Lead over a major contract or program or
- Senior Level FAC-P/PM, or FAC-COR III
- GS Levels 14 or 15 over a major contract or program
Application
*Application packages must be submitted by 4:00 p.m.
Application Process
- Download the SALT Application and instructions.
- Complete the HCA Endorsement Memo OR Complete the COR SES Endorsement Memo.
- Complete and compile your application package (including application form, resume and resume cover page, electronic copy of FAC-C (Professional), Senior Level FAC-P/PM Certificate or FAC-COR III Certificate, supervisor recommendation, student biography and photograph, and an endorsing official recommendation if applicable).
- Submit the complete application package to the VAAA SALT Program Team via VAAASALT@va.gov.
Evaluation of VA applicants
HCAs will make endorsement determinations for FAC-Cs and SES will make endorsement determinations for FAC-P/PMs and FAC-CORs. SALT applicants will be notified of their acceptance status no later than August 2025.
Structure
The SALT Program will be held in person and virtually between October 2025 and May 2026. One cohort will be offered to a blended audience, combining contracting and program/project management, and COR professionals to foster a better sense of awareness and a deeper understanding of what can sometimes seem like competing agendas.
The cohort will be limited to no more than 35 participants. Upon successful completion of the course, participants will receive approximately 200 CLPs.
Organization
The SALT Program will consist of 12 days of in-person training and regularly scheduled virtual classes and engagement sessions. In-person sessions at VAAA in Frederick, MD will be held held October 27-30, 2025, March 9-12, 2026, and May 18-21, 2026, 8:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. ET daily. Virtual sessions will be held twice-monthly on Tuesdays from 10:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. ET, starting November 18, 2025 – May 5, 2026. There will also be approximately 50 hours of individual course work/Capstone deliverable work to complete outside of class time. For full details, view the SALT schedule below. Please note that times and dates listed may be subject to change.
Refer to the FAQ for more information.
FY26 Salt Schedule
One Cohort with In-Person and Virtual Learning
| Date | Event Details |
|---|---|
| October 2025 | In-person learning at the Veterans Affairs Acquisition Academy: October 27, 28, 29, 30. |
| November 2025 | One virtual learning session: November 18, six hours. |
| December 2025 | Two virtual learning sessions: December 2 and 16, six hours each. |
| January 2026 | Two virtual learning sessions: January 13 and 27, six hours each. |
| February 2026 | Two virtual learning sessions: February 10 and 24, six hours each. |
| March 2026 | In-person learning at the Veterans Affairs Acquisition Academy: March 9, 10, 11, 12. One virtual learning session: March 24, six hours. |
| April 2026 | Two virtual learning sessions: April 7 and 21, six hours each. |
| May 2026 | One virtual learning session: May 5, six hours. In-person learning at the Veterans Affairs Acquisition Academy: May 18, 19, 20, 21. Graduation Ceremony May 21. |
There will also be up to 50 hours of individual course work and Capstone deliverable work to complete outside of class time. Please note that times and dates listed may be subject to change.
Key leadership Topics
- Understanding Self and Others: Build effective relationships by applying insights on self and others to enhance leadership and organizational influence. Review your EQ360© assessment with a certified coach to identify strengths and development areas.
- Thinking Strategically to Get Results: Develop strategic thinking and problem-solving skills to manage acquisitions effectively. Use creative techniques to align with the organization’s vision and mission, improve learning, and strengthen culture.
- Words and Strategies in Action: Use learning agility, systems thinking, and emotional awareness to develop communication techniques that manage change and turn challenges into opportunities. Engage advocates to solicit buy-in and motivate stakeholders.
- Your Leadership Legacy and Capstone: Reflect on the program’s lessons to leave a leadership legacy. Develop actionable short-term and long-term leadership plans to succeed in acquisition roles.
- Capstone Project: Collaborate with peers and a sponsor on a real-world acquisition challenge. Research, design, and develop deliverables, and present recommendations in a white paper and presentation to Senior Leaders and sponsors.
FAQs
Application Completion – How do I request an application?
Download the SALT Application.
Application Completion – When and where do I submit my completed application?
Completed applications must be submitted via email (VAAASALT@va.gov) no later than 4:00 p.m.
Application Completion – Will I have to provide Personally Identifiable Information (PII) in my applications package? If so, how will it be secured?
Please exclude all Personally Identifiable Information (PII), such as personal address or social security number. Work related contact information is sufficient for program execution. If accepted to the SALT Program, we may need your mailing address in order to mail course materials.
Application Completion – Will I need to obtain letters of recommendation?
The applicant’s immediate supervisor will need to complete the Supervisor Recommendation portion of the application package. Additional recommendations are not required, and if submitted, will not be used as part of the evaluation process.
Application Completion – Will I need to provide “wet-ink” signatures for all of my application forms?
The application forms are designed to accept digital signatures for all portions requiring a signature; however, if you are unable to complete the document electronically, “wet-ink” signatures will be accepted in place of a digital signature. Please note, if submitting “wet-ink” signatures, applicants are responsible for scanning and submitting their completed application package by the submission deadline; late applications will not be accepted.
Eligibility – Can an exception be made for the requirement to have two years of experience with my agency?
Participants will be developing leadership skills and addressing concerns currently facing the acquisition community. Therefore, at a minimum, applicants must possess 1102, P/PM, or COR experience with your current agency from June 2023 to June 2025. There will be no exceptions to this requirement.
Eligibility – Will there be waivers for those who have not had two consecutive years of acquisition experience with the VA?
No, those who have not had two consecutive years of experience with their current agency will not be eligible for the program.
Eligibility – Must I have been a supervisor for two consecutive years at the VA in order to qualify for the program?
No, SALT eligibility requirements simply stipulate that you must currently be a supervisor or Team Lead if applying under the eligibility requirements of the 1102 job series.
Eligibility – Can I still apply if I am not a supervisor, but meet the other eligibility requirements?
1102 applicants are required to be classified as a supervisory GS-13 through 15 or non-supervisory GS-14 through 15 Team Lead at the time of application. P/PM and COR applicants are required to be classified as a GS-14 or GS-15 at the time of application.
Eligibility – Will there be waivers for those who are not GS-13s?
No, all candidates must meet eligibility requirements of serving as a GS-13 through 15 for 1102s and GS-14 or GS-15 for P/PM and COR.
Participant Selection – When will I find out if I have been selected?
Selection notifications will be sent in early August 2025.
Program Administration – Will I be required to sign a Continued Service Agreement (CSA)?
Students will not be required to sign a Continued Service Agreement.
Program Administration – How many cohorts are being offered?
One hybrid cohort will be offered comprised of 1102s, P/PMs, and CORs. The make-up of the cohorts is subject to change based on the applicant pool. The cohort will begin in October 2025 and end in May 2026.
Program Administration – Where and when will I be required to work on the program assignments with my cohort?
SALT will be a hybrid of in-person and online virtual instructor-led courses from October 2025 to May 2026. Time will be provided for course work, capstone work, and independent assignments during these sessions. Up to 50 additional hours will be necessary to complete independent assignments and other Capstone project work. The benefits of the program are directly related to the commitment participants make to their teams.
Program Administration – What happens if I am selected for the program, but then cannot attend all parts of the program due to unforeseen circumstances?
Participants are expected to make a commitment to the program and their fellow cohort members by completing all elements of the program. In the event unforeseen circumstances arise and disrupt participation, those circumstances will be weighed against program objectives and will be addressed on a case-by-case basis. Please note: featured on-site sessions are mandatory and will be scheduled from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. each day. Travel plans should account for this schedule. Prospective candidates who are not available during these session dates should not apply as attendance at all on-site sessions is mandatory.
Program Administration – What is the schedule?
The hybrid SALT Program will consist of 12 days of in-person training and regularly scheduled virtual classes and engagement sessions. In-person sessions at VAAA in Frederick, Md., will be held October 27-30, 2025, March 9-12, 2026, and May 18-21, 2026, 8:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. ET daily. Virtual instructor-led sessions will be held twice-monthly on Tuesdays from 10:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. ET, starting November 18, 2025 – May 5, 2026. There will also be up to 50 hours of individual course work/Capstone deliverable work to complete outside of class time. Please note that times and dates listed may be subject to change.
Program Administration – What is a virtual instructor-led class session?
A virtual class session is required class time that will be used for participating in engaging SALT activities. These activities may include Capstone team work sessions and meetings, Capstone team meetings with the SALT Team, completing assignments, special guest speakers, collaboration sessions, video sessions, games, and other learning activities. Six hours will be reserved for a virtual class session.
Program Administration – What is an engagement session?
A virtual class session is required class time that will be used for participating in engaging SALT activities. These activities may include Capstone team work sessions and meetings, Capstone team meetings with the SALT Team, completing assignments, special guest speakers, collaboration sessions, video sessions, games, and other learning activities. Six hours will be reserved for a virtual class session.
Program Administration – What is the requirement for the SALT Capstone project?
The Capstone project for SALT will be a team project. Each team will focus on a different current issue facing the acquisition community, as identified by senior acquisition leaders. Teams will have eight months to research and analyze the topic areas, develop alternative solutions, engage with project sponsors, if appropriate, and formulate recommendations. Each team will prepare a written paper and briefing package to be presented to their project sponsor and other senior leaders in May 2026. The benefits of the program are directly related to the commitment they make to their team.
Program Administration – What if I am unable to complete the SALT Capstone Project?
Satisfactory completion of the Capstone project for SALT is one of the requirements for graduation. Satisfactory completion means the senior leader assigned as the project sponsor and the SALT program manager collectively conclude that each member of the team collaborated, cooperated, and contributed to the research, analysis, discussions, proposed solution(s), and team milestone achievement for the Capstone challenge. Furthermore, the paper and presentation are professional, well organized, and succinct, as provided to the SALT staff and senior leaders.
Program Administration – How much travel is involved?
SALT is a hybrid program for FY26 and will require at least 12 days in Frederick, MD at the VA Acquisition Academy. The cost for training and travel will be covered by the VAAA Contracting Professional School (CPS). The cost for travel will be covered by VAAA CPS. Depending on where the participant resides, travel on the day prior to the session or on the day after completion of the session may be required to meet start (8:00 a.m.) and stop (5:00 p.m.) times. Participants are solely responsible for managing their travel orders and should ensure they are created 60 days before the scheduled travel date.
Program Administration – Who pays for travel costs associated with the March, July, and October in-person sessions?
Travel costs will be covered by VAAA CPS.
Program Administration – What is required of me to receive a passing grade and graduate from the SALT program?
Participants will be expected to attend, participate, and complete all sessions scheduled by the program; complete individual assignments; and actively participate in and contribute to the Capstone project scope and major milestones established by the team, receiving a “satisfactory” completion rating from the Capstone sponsor and SALT program manager.
Program Administration – Will I get promoted if I complete this program?
Completion of SALT does not guarantee promotion but will contribute to professional and personal growth. Additionally, this elite training program will provide you with the tools, techniques, and perspectives to prepare you more fully for entry into the ranks of Senior VA leadership.
Fly Program
FCL-VA-0207 Finding the Leader in You (FLY) is a 3.5 day foundational leadership course designed for the acquisition workforce. The FLY program is designed for participants to collaborate in small group discussions and projects to identify the diverse qualities of team players who make positive contributions and identify ways to apply those qualities to benefit their team’s tasks and relationships. The class culminates with small groups designing and delivering a brief assigned team building activity to the class to demonstrate the qualities of a team player and review key class concepts.
Currently, open registration for VA participants only occurs on Cornerstone OnDemand.
“I thought this class was fantastic. It was a great opportunity to explore how leadership works at the VA and how to be successful in the organization. It was a great opportunity to refresh my memory on different leadership qualities and how to tie that in to working for the federal government. I would recommend this course to any new 1102 who wants to move up in the VA.”
“The FLY course is a very great entry level course, and as I participated in this course with some of my GS-7 employees, I love the foundational leadership that is being taught, the culture and mindset of team playing is something that the VA needs to incorporate and have available for all new coming employees. Excellent course!!”
“It was a great class with a good mixture of students. I am new to the VA so it was very helpful in hearing the different views, experiences, etc from others. Would definitely recommend.”
Purpose
Why are we FLYing?
In 2019, the Secretary of Veterans Affairs signed a memo asking all VA team members to be active participants in their professional development. This sparked an initiative to further invest in talent at VA with strategic and impactful professional development programs. Members of the Talent Development Council (TDC), along with learning leaders across VA, inspired by OPM Leadership Competencies, ICARE Values and Servant Leadership Principles, created the Leadership Development Framework (LDF). VA Staff only with the goal of fostering a continuous learning culture.
The LDF identifies five key leadership levels: Emerging Leader (leading self), Team Leader (leading projects), First Line Supervisors (leading teams), Manager (leading programs) and Senior Leader (leading organizations).
VAAA already offers leadership training via the SALT program at the First Line Supervisor and Manager levels of the LDF and CLIMB program for Emerging Leaders and Team Leaders. FLY addresses OPM Leadership competencies identified at the LDF’s Emerging Leader level:
- Accountability
- Continual Learning
- Problem Solving
- Team Building
- Integrity/Honesty
- Resilience
- Flexibility
- Interpersonal Skills
- Oral Communication
- Written Communication
Eligibility
FLY is open to GS-7, GS-8, and GS-9 members of the VA Acquisition Workforce
FLY participants who recognize the value of working as a team to complete tasks and build respectful working relationships will benefit most from FLY. FLY participants are highly interested in improving VA workplace culture and success by investing in themselves through leadership training and continual learning. FLY focuses on competencies that are the launching point of future leadership opportunities. The program involves active participation and collaboration; therefore, participants must be available fulltime throughout the class.
Structure
The 3.5 day class is instructor-led with scheduled blocks of time for breaks and assignments. The first three days of class include instructor-led discussions and activities, independent assignment periods to read the required textbook and complete graded assessments and journal assignments, and group assignments to prepare for the capstone activity. The final day of class is mostly for group delivery of the capstone activities and the final assessment.
Participants earn course credit for passing the post-course assessment, completing journal and capstone activities in accordance with a passing rubric score, and participating in class. Full attendance is required.
Example of daily schedule:
- Hour 1: Live classroom session
- Hour 2: 10-minute break and live classroom session
- Hour 3: Independent assignment (reading, journal, etc.)
- Hour 4: Lunch
- Hour 5: Group planning of Capstone
- Hour 6: 10-minute break followed by live classroom session
- Hours 7 and 8: Independent assignments (reading, journal, assessment, capstone, etc.)
There will also be up to 50 hours of individual course work and Capstone deliverable work to complete outside of class time. Please note that times and dates listed may be subject to change.
- Understanding Self and Others: Build effective relationships by applying insights on self and others to enhance leadership and organizational influence. Review your EQ360© assessment with a certified coach to identify strengths and development areas.
- Thinking Strategically to Get Results: Develop strategic thinking and problem-solving skills to manage acquisitions effectively. Use creative techniques to align with the organization’s vision and mission, improve learning, and strengthen culture.
- Words and Strategies in Action: Use learning agility, systems thinking, and emotional awareness to develop communication techniques that manage change and turn challenges into opportunities. Engage advocates to solicit buy-in and motivate stakeholders.
- Your Leadership Legacy and Capstone: Reflect on the program’s lessons to leave a leadership legacy. Develop actionable short-term and long-term leadership plans to succeed in acquisition roles.
- Capstone Project: Collaborate with peers and a sponsor on a real-world acquisition challenge. Research, design, and develop deliverables, and present recommendations in a white paper and presentation to Senior Leaders and sponsors.
Interested Candidates
Each year, candidates for the Acquisition Internship Program are recruited and hired by contracting organizations across VA, known as a Participating Acquisition Organization (PAO). Once the candidate is hired by a PAO, the employee is sent to Frederick, MD, via Government travel orders to receive blocks of academy-based training.
Requirements for consideration
- Sign a Continuing Service Agreement (CSA)
- Travel to Frederick Maryland to complete all required academy-based training
Qualifications
Candidates for the program must have a Bachelor’s Degree from an accredited college or university to be considered. They must also not have completed more than 2 of the FAC-C Level I or II certification courses, as this intern program is targeted at brand new contract specialists.
How to Apply
Like all Federal employment opportunities, intern positions are posted on USA jobs. Once the position is posted, interested candidates can apply and submit their application at USA jobs. In the meantime, candidates can create a saved job search to receive email notifications regarding job announcements. The most qualified candidates are referred to the hiring organizations for consideration to be interviewed for a position with the participating organization, and participation in AIP.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Federal Acquisition?
Federal acquisition involves making purchases on behalf of Federal agencies, but it is also much more than that. Like any major business function, it calls for skillful problem solving. Each day the United States Federal Government depends on competent women and men to buy necessary products and contract for services with the funds allocated by Congress. This role requires adeptness at many different business disciplines, such as strategic thinking, evaluation, law, negotiation and management. Each day acquisition professionals engage in sound decision-making to balance a myriad of details without losing site of the overall purpose: protecting and serving the American people.
The acquisition workforce includes individuals who perform contracting, purchasing, partnering, and leveraging functions to support the accomplishment of an agency’s mission. Your work as part of the acquisition workforce will help to provide the Government with the goods and services required to serve our Veterans.
What kind of work does an Acquisition Professional do at VA?
The VA has numerous opportunities for acquisition professionals. VA contract specialists procure a wide variety of items and services: for example, medical supplies for VA hospitals, memorials to honor deceased Veterans, as well as sophisticated IT systems to manage benefits received by Veterans and their families.
What are the requirements for the internship program?
Applicants for the Acquisition Intern Program (AIP) must have a Bachelor’s degree. Visit the Office of Personnel Management’s website for specific acquisition profession Qualification Standards.
Why apply for the VA Acquisition Intern Program?
Participants are hired as full time Federal employees with all associated benefits, including:
- Generous paid leave (starting with 13 days of vacation and 13 days of sick leave annually)
- Ten Federal holidays
- Competitive compensation packages with annual pay increases
- Excellent health care plans
- Advancement opportunities
- Retirement program (Thrift Savings Plan)
The VA has acquisition offices in almost all 50 states, Puerto Rico, and the District of Columbia; the opportunities for career growth and development are extensive.
Is extra consideration given to candidates with NCMA certification?
While it does not provide an advantage in the application process, all additional certifications and education will be taken into consideration in the selection process. Interested candidates should note that this is an entry-level, intensive training program so those that are already FAC-C certified, or are well on their way, do not make ideal candidates for this program.
What type of appointing authority are the interns hired under?
Participants in the Acquisition Intern Program are hired by VA acquisition organizations competitively through USA Jobs.
Do interns get to choose where they work or in what part of the country?
AIP participants are competitively hired by acquisition organizations within the VA, and participants entering into AIP are permanent employees of that hiring organization and location. All OJT occurs at that same permanent duty station.
How do you apply for the internship program?
Applicants apply for the Acquisition Intern Program in the same manner they would any federal job, through job announcements on the USAJobs website.
Does VA pay any housing allowance or travel expenses for people who have to relocate?
VA does not currently pay any housing allowance or travel expenses for relocation of AIP participants.
Warriors to Workforce Program
The Warriors to Workforce Program (W2W) is a program that offers Veterans an opportunity to transition into a career in the federal government by applying their military skills and experiences to the federal workforce. The program focuses on transitional support, mentoring, professional development, and foundational career training activities. Interns complete the program as a cohort, fortified by a built-in support system that mirrors the team environment and camaraderie that they experienced in the military. These relationships create a foundation for a lasting professional network throughout their career.
Program Highlights
The W2W Program is the first training and development program of its kind for transition training and direct job placement in the civil service. Our hybrid program design shortens the learning curve and provides a career roadmap for our Wounded Warriors. Program participants are hired into W2W as GS-5 federal employees and complete four main program components: Business Education, Professional Development, Peak Performance Training and Mission Service:
- Business Education: Business courses from an accredited academic institution
- Professional Development: Foundational training focused on professional skills most sought out by employers. Participants will receive training in a range of topics to include conflict management, written and oral communication, professional conduct, time management, and growth mindset.
- Peak Performance Training: Interactive workshops to strengthen teaming cultures and fine-tune critical thinking skills; uses dynamic mobile training platforms to increase memory recall, cognitive agility and mental reflex; and leverages technologies used by Olympic athletes to maximize personal performance through heartrate regulation and breathing in individualized training sessions.
- Mission Service & Industry Experience: Throughout the program, interns participate in Mission Service events to connect with the VA’s mission and Industry Offsite trips to gain an understanding of industry partners.
After W2W Program Completion
The federal contract specialist career field requires 24 hours of college business credits. The W2W Program helps Veterans obtain that positive education requirement while providing a federal job with full benefits and a rewarding professional career path in federal contracting. Once participants obtain the positive education requirement and successfully complete the W2W Program, they are converted to contract specialists on a GS-7/9 career ladder track and matriculate to the Acquisition Intern Program (AIP). W2W serves as a foundation to AIP. There, participants learn the essential technical and professional competencies for contracting professionals in an experiential learning environment with real-world work scenarios. Upon successful completion of the AIP, interns are strategically infused into the Acquisition workforce to meet the needs of federal contracting organizations throughout the country.
Interested Candidates
Qualifications
- Candidates for the program must have a high school diploma (or equivalent) and minimal college credits.
- Candidates must be eligible for hire under the Veterans’ Recruitment Appointment (VRA) Authority.
- If you have too many business credits, or already have a degree? Visit www.acquisitionacademy.va.gov/schools/internship/curriculum.asp.
Conditions of Employment
- Flexibility to travel on TDY for in-person training in Frederick, Md.
- Must sign a Continuing Service Agreement (CSA) to maintain employment with the VA for a period of 18 months after training completion.
Must sign a Mobility Statement in order to participate in the program. Final job placement will be at a VA contracting organization within the U.S. (location based on needs of the VA).
Role of a Contract Specialist
What Does a Contracting Professional Do?
Federal acquisition professionals, including contracting professionals, make strategic and innovative business decisions to help the United States acquire vital goods and services needed.
The most common contracting professional in the Federal Government is a Contract Specialist. These personnel act as business partners to Program Managers in their Agencies, assisting them in planning for and acquiring the goods and services needed so that Agencies can accomplish their mission.
Contract Specialists are in high demand as the Government’s need for goods and services has increased dramatically over the past few years and the services being acquired are more technically complex as well as the projects and contracts being of longer duration.
Contracting professionals:
- Act as business partners to the Program Managers in their agencies
- Assist in planning for and acquiring the goods and services needed so that agencies can accomplish their mission
- Are in high demand as the Government’s need for goods and services has increased dramatically over the past few years
Specific day-to-day tasks include:
- Notify individuals or offices of decisions, problems, or further actions needed
- Explain or justify decisions, conclusions, findings, or recommendations
- Make improvements, solve problems, or take corrective action when problems arise
- Negotiate contracts for services or supplies
- Negotiate with individuals or organizations to resolve conflicts, disputes, or grievances
- Acquire and maintain a working knowledge of relevant laws, regulations, policies, standards, or procedures
- Interpret and apply laws, regulations, policies, standards, or procedures to specific issues
- Implement new or revised laws, regulations, policies, standards, or procedures
- Monitor contracts (includes administering, extending, modifying, or terminating contracts)
- Collaborate with others or work on teams
- Purchase or contract for property, services, supplies, equipment, or other items
- Solicit proposals or bids for contracts or property
- Use computer systems or applications to access, create, edit, print, send, retrieve, or manipulate data, files, or other information.