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Event Detail

Registration Open - StraightTalk StraightAnswers: Episode 10 Don Carter, VA OIT Executive Director for Contract and Operations Management Office



 U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA)

Office of Small and Disadvantaged Business Utilization

 StraighTalk StraightAnswers: Episode 10 

 featuring

Don Carter

VA OIT Executive Director for Contract and Operations Management Office


Date:  Monday, July 27, 2026 

Time: 10:00 AM - 11:00 AM ET

Format: Virtual

Hosted By: VA OSDBU


Click the link below to register:

https://veteransaffairs.wbex.com/weblink/register/rbc3cb0d13a52e297072fbf4895bf3262


Agenda

This episode features Mr. Don Carter, VA Office of Information and Technology (OIT) Executive Director for the Contract and Operations Management Office of Strategic Sourcing. We will continue the conversation from March regarding OIT’s evolving procurement and evaluation methods, including a shift towards challenge and outcome-based contracting. Expect to receive guidance on technical skills and capabilities, such as data standardization, cloud, and AI expertise, that OIT is seeking from the industry. Additionally, the session will highlight emerging opportunities within OIT and provide actionable steps for Veterans and small businesses to proactively position themselves for future solicitations. Topics to be discussed:
 
 • Continued overview of OIT’s procurement strategies and contracting vehicles
 • Key trends and technical requirements shaping OIT opportunities
 • Strategies for long-term success and partnerships
  ---------------------------------------------------------
  The VA OSDBU FY2026 Podcast series is a strategic initiative designed to empower Veteran-owned and small businesses engaging with the Federal marketplace. This series leverages conversations with agency leaders and subject matter experts to provide candid insights into Federal procurement, decision-making processes, and practical strategies for overcoming challenges in government contracting.
 
 The podcast offers a unique platform for direct engagement, giving small businesses access to information typically unavailable outside government channels. Key topics include recent policy changes, actionable growth strategies, and best practices for leveraging resources. Participants can pose questions and receive tailored guidance, enhancing their confidence and effectiveness in working with Federal buyers.
 
 This initiative underscores VA’s commitment to supporting Veteran entrepreneurship, driving innovation, and achieving outcomes aligned with the Small Business Act and “Vets First” legislation. The podcast is expected to strengthen the capabilities of Veteran and small businesses while reinforcing VA’s leadership in acquisition excellence.


For more information, please contact VA OSDBU’s Direct Access Program Planning Support Team.

Email: directaccess@va.gov

Phone: (202) 461‑4694

Location

Contact Us

Monday - Friday, 7:00 A.M. to 5:00 P.M. (Eastern)
+1 202-461-4694
DirectAccess@va.gov
Please note: Content on this Web page is for informational purposes only. It is not intended to provide legal advice or to be a comprehensive statement or analysis of application statures, regulations, and case law governing this topic. Rather, it's a plain language summary. If you are seeking claims assistance, your local VA regional office, a VA-recognized Veterans Service Organization, or a VA-accredited attorney or agent can help.