Prime contractors can expect to be asked for a new round of certifications as the result of a FAR provision that was scheduled to take effect on August 13, 2020 but a delay has been approved for DoD until September 30, 2020. The new provisions prohibit Agencies from contracting with companies that “use” covered telecommunications equipment or services provided by several named Chinese companies.  For the ship repair industry, we understand that many of the low cost, camera-less flip phones frequently utilized by workers are manufactured by one of the named companies and will be prohibited.

For the month of September, in lieu of our regularly scheduled VSRA General Membership Meeting, we will be participating in a Virtual ASNE VSRA FMMS Day with the Fleet Maintenance & Modernization Symposium (FMMS) 2020. The Virtual ASNE VSRA FMMS Day is scheduled for Tuesday, September 15, 2020. 

As a result of the 2019-20 global pandemic, organizations across all sectors are struggling to reorient themselves and establish revised coordinates on a marketplace that has yet to stabilize.  While the next reality for most may not be fully understood, the expanding role of technology is much clearer.  One such example involves transitions toward online learning in response to health concerns associated with traditional classroom learning environments.  Without question, skill development through a virtual platform can offer a safe, effective, and flexible alternative to face-to-face instruction.  The key to success for achieving desired learning outcomes involves planning, preparation, and delivery based on the specific needs of your organization.

The August General Membership meeting was held on Tuesday, August 18, 2020 virtually via Zoom. The Guest Speaker was U.S. Senator Tim Kaine.

As a reminder, there will be no General Membership Luncheon in October! Instead, the 34th Annual Virginia Ship Repair Foundation Golf Tournament will be held at Bayville Golf Club in Virginia Beach on Tuesday, October 20!