Three Educational Tracks Designed for Stages of Government Contracting Experience

Whether preparing to pursue a government contract for first time or a firm is looking to strengthen its competitive advantage, the 2026 North Puget Sound Contracting Conference has educational programming designed to serve businesses at every stage of their contracting journey.
This year's conference will feature three dedicated learning tracks, allowing attendees to customize their experience based on their business goals, level of government contracting experience, and areas of interest. From foundational training to advanced strategy and regional project opportunities, each track delivers practical insights from industry experts, government agencies, and experienced contractors.

Track 1: Intro to Government Contracting

For those new to government contracting, these sessions help businesses understand the fundamentals of competing for public sector work while avoiding common pitfalls that can prevent companies from winning contracts.

Capture Management 101 – Finding and Winning the Right Opportunities
Success in government contracting begins long before a solicitation is posted. This session introduces attendees to the fundamentals of capture management, including how to research agencies, identify the right opportunities, review procurement forecasts, and position your company before bidding begins. Panelists will also discuss the importance of maintaining registrations, certifications, and vendor profiles so your business is visible, compliant, and ready to compete.

Compliance Essentials – Insurance, Bonding, and Prevailing Wage Requirements
Public Works contracts come with unique requirements that every contractor must understand. This panel breaks down the essentials—including insurance, bonding, licensing, and prevailing wage requirements—to help businesses confidently prepare for public sector work and avoid costly compliance mistakes.

Building a Strong Foundation – Business Resources for Government Contractors
A successful government contractor is built on more than winning bids. Representatives from lending institutions, the Small Business Development Center, and the U.S. Small Business Administration will discuss financing options, business planning assistance, certifications, and loan programs that can help businesses strengthen operations, improve cash flow, and prepare for long-term growth.

Track 2: Advanced Government Contracting

For businesses already active in the government marketplace, Track 2 offers higher-level strategies for growing market share, managing increasing compliance demands, and planning for the future.

Strategic Capture & Market Shaping – Influencing the Pipeline Before It's Published
Winning more contracts often starts months—or even years—before an RFP is released. This session explores how contractors can monitor acquisition and acquisition trends, understand agency planning cycles, engage ethically with stakeholders, and align business capabilities with long-term government priorities. Gain practical strategies for positioning well before opportunities officially hit the street.

Advanced Compliance & Risk Management – PLAs, Cybersecurity, and Emerging Mandates
As government contracting requirements continue to evolve, staying compliant has become increasingly complex. This panel covers critical topics including Project Labor Agreements (PLAs), cybersecurity requirements, subcontractor compliance, and emerging mandates. Learn how to assess readiness, manage risk, incorporate compliance costs into project planning, and build stronger internal processes.

Succession Planning & Contract Continuity – Preparing for Ownership Transition
Ownership transitions present unique challenges for government contractors. Whether planning for retirement, selling a business, or transferring ownership to the next generation, contractors must navigate contract transfer requirements while protecting valuable past performance and maintaining agency relationships. This session provides practical guidance on succession planning strategies that help ensure business continuity and preserve contract opportunities.

Track 3: Projects & Agency Connections

A unique opportunity to hear directly from public agencies and project leaders about upcoming infrastructure investments and contracting opportunities in the region.
Whether you're interested in transportation, public works, or federal contracting, these sessions offer valuable insight into future work and how your business can prepare to compete.

U.S. 2 Trestle Project
One of the region's most anticipated transportation projects takes center stage during this panel discussion. Local leaders, transportation experts, and community stakeholders will provide updates on the proposed improvements to the U.S. Route 2 Trestle, including planning efforts, funding, environmental review, anticipated timelines, and the project's expected impact on mobility, safety, and economic development throughout Snohomish County.

Regional Public Works Project Panel
Hear directly from public agencies across the North Puget Sound region as they discuss upcoming capital improvement projects, construction programs, infrastructure investments, and procurement priorities. Get an early look at planned work and valuable insight into how agencies are preparing future contracting opportunities.

Federal Agency Contracting Panel
Representatives from federal agencies, including the U.S. Navy and other regional federal partners, will discuss how businesses can successfully compete for federal contracts. Learn how agencies buy goods and services, where to find opportunities, what procurement officials look for in vendors, and practical steps your business can take to become a successful federal contractor.

Build Your Conference Experience
The educational tracks at the 2026 North Puget Sound Contracting Conference are designed to meet businesses where they are—from those taking their first steps into government contracting to seasoned firms looking to expand into new markets and connect directly with public agencies.
No matter which sessions you choose, you'll leave with practical knowledge, new connections, and actionable strategies to help your business compete for government contracts with greater confidence.