VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. -- When it comes to enabling assured access to space, the 30th Contracting Squadron is a vital piece to making that mission happen. Without them, squadrons across the installation would not be able to purchase, renovate or modernize within their unit.
Comprised of contracting professionals, quality analysis managers and property managers, the 30th CONS works diligently to support mission partners to acquire and administer contracts, helping ensure the 30th Space Wing can enable space superiority through service, supply, construction and range support contracts.
Recently, the Air Force introduced a new program, the Expanded Use Initiative, which will cost-effectively modernize the Government Purchase Card program in order to increase the lethality of the force.
“The Expanded Use Initiative creates the opportunity to use the Government Purchase Card further, smarter and broader,” said Tonia Gladen, 30th CONS GPC program manager. “This initiative will allow units to spend more money on their GPC, which will maximize rebates and put more money back into the base.”
With purchases made on GPCs and attainment of contracts, Vandenberg Air Force Base spent approximately $104 million across the base, maintaining, renovating and improving the 30th SW and Western Range during fiscal year 2019. As a whole, VAFB accumulated $85,000 in rebates, which were redistributed back into the installation.
With each rebate that returns to the base, a designated percentage is disseminated back to each squadron, allowing additional items to be purchased that units may not have been able to afford with their current budget. With the implementation of the Expanded Use Initiative, the additional money acquired will allow the 30th SW to grow and innovate faster every year.
According to Maj. Rheesa Paluay, 30th CONS commander, the Multiple Award Construction Contract awarded in March 2020 will provide construction support to three bases, which will allow for faster and more sufficient construction contracts.
Paluay and her team are expanding their services to neighboring bases, such as Los Angeles Air Force Base and Edwards Air Force Base. They are preparing a single construction, five-year contract that will serve all three bases, which will result in a quicker turnaround on construction projects for the bases involved.
Leading from the front, the 30th CONS is enabling the base to innovate and modernize processes that will help for years to come.
“We make sure everyone has what they need,” said Jeffrey Powell, 30th CONS director of business operations. “On top of providing our services to all the units, we also provide key range support for the base, aiding each launch from the Western Range.”