Laughlin Air Force Base, Texas —
The 47th Contracting Squadron at Laughlin Air Force Base held its first Small Business Industry Day on Friday, April 26, 2024. The event brought more than 25 local and small businesses to the base and educated on how to partner with the base for upcoming construction projects and needed services.
“A new trainer aircraft requires building new infrastructure and a new backbone to the way we train and educate,” said Col. Kevin A. Davidson, 47th Flying Training Wing commander. “Everything from maintenance to operations to support has opportunities for change that will begin in the next few years.”
The purpose of the event was to connect with local contractors who are investing within the Del Rio community to reduce procurement lead times.
“Now is the perfect time for you to come here and start this process. There are 25 companies here that currently don't have what they need to operate on government contracts,” said David. Mr. Song said. “I’m excited to be able to teach them the process.”
Small Business Industry Day covered how businesses do business with government, government purchasing cards, and included an overview of construction and service projects for fiscal year 2024 and 2025 and beyond.
“The mission here is growing and there's a lot of infrastructure to build and improve,” said Maj. Matthew Thorne, 47th Contracting Squadron commander. “This is your chance to be a part of that impact.”
After lunch, briefings on contractor capabilities were held, as well as one-on-one briefings with 47th Contracting Squadron personnel and requested companies.
“To increase competition, it is important to educate local businesses and partners and provide them with information on how to do business with the government,” said Jesús, 47th Contracting Squadron business director and Del Rio native.・Mr. Perez stated. “For all future construction projects, we have a responsibility to give Del Rio's small businesses the opportunity to be competitive and do business with Laughlin.”
The 47th Contracting Squadron oversees all funds used by Laughlin for services, goods and construction contracts. They act as designated representatives of the government and have exclusive authority to enter into contracts or agreements that obligate funds appropriated to the government.
“We have been preparing for months to ensure this event is a success,” Perez said. “We look forward to the new partnerships we have built with local businesses through this event, and even more at future Laughlin Small Business Industry Days.”
If you would like to participate in a future Industry Day at Laughlin Air Force Base, please contact Jesus Perez, Director of Business Operations at Laughlin Air Force Base, at (830) 298-5641.
