81st Contracting holds pieces to air show puzzle

Published March 4, 2015
By Airman 1st Class Duncan McElroy
81st Training Wing Public Affairs

KEESLER AIR FORCE BASE, Miss. -- What would an air show be like without aircraft zooming overhead and vintage warplanes sitting proudly on display?

Not an air show, that's for sure.

Luckily the 81st Training Wing Contracting Squadron works with the air show planners to purchase contracts for almost everything spectators will see at the March 28-29 Keesler Air Show/Open House.

No two contracts are the same, each is fun and challenging in its own way; like a game, explained Kimberley Alvarez, 81st CONS contracting officer. Defining the needs, conducting market research and utilizing competition between vendors ensures high-quality, cost-effective contracts are awarded to the most qualified businesses.

Some contracts, like portable restrooms and trash collection, are already existing contracts that need to be beefed-up to fit the needs of the air show, she said. Others, like the vintage warplanes and audio systems, are new and unique.

Contracting is the middle step to planning the air show, Alvarez continued. After the planners finalize what they want, contracting finds and awards contracts to companies that fulfill the different needs. Once awarded, the planners take over again to finalize preparations.

Through responsible spending, contribution to small businesses and thorough 'shopping,' the 81st CONS is doing their part to ensure Keesler's 2015 Air Show/Open House is an unforgettable show.

Air Show must-haves
Air Boss
Audio system
Fuel/oil
Portable restrooms
Trash collection

Warbirds
T-33 Shooting Star
T-28 Trojan
BAC 167 Strikemaster
BAC L29 Delfin
Piper J-3 Cub
MiG 17A
F-4U Corsair
P-51 Mustang
B-25 Mitchell Bomber

Keesler Air Show/Open House March 28-29