WASHINGTON, D.C. (October 17, 2024) — The Defense Innovation Unit (DIU) recognizes the selection of six contracting officers for the third cohort of the Immersive Commercial Acquisition Program (ICAP) for 2024-2025.
The ICAP Fellowship, a collaboration between the Defense Acquisition University (DAU) and DIU, offers an immersive 12-month fellowship that provides hands-on experience in commercial acquisition. The selected fellows for the flagship innovation program are:
Ashley Ebert, Defense Contract Management Agency
Nicholas Roney, Maryland Procurement Office
Christopher Seto, Department of the Navy
Laura Stella, Department of the Air Force
U.S. Air Force Maj. Mark Zakner, U.S. Air Force
Justin Zerbato, General Services Administration
Launched in May 2022, ICAP fellowship is a unique opportunity for acquisition professionals to work directly with cutting-edge technology companies, learn from industry experts, and gain valuable experience in commercial acquisition. Fellows benefit from an immersive experience that combines DAU learning with relevant, on-the-job training through the execution of DIU prototype projects.
ICAP is a critical component of the Department of Defense's efforts to stay ahead of the curve in the rapidly changing technological landscape. The program provides acquisition professionals with the knowledge, skills, and experience needed to navigate the complex world of commercial acquisition.
To celebrate the accomplishments of the outgoing 2023-24 cohort and welcome the new fellows, DIU and DAU are set to host an ICAP Recognition Ceremony on Wednesday, October 23, 2024 at 9:00am EDT virtually or at the DAU Campus on Fort Belvoir.
Following the recognition ceremony Mr. Frank Kelley, DAU President (Acting), will host an Innovate to Win webinar from the same stage beginning at 10 a.m. Eastern (7 a.m. Pacific). The webinar will focus on driving innovation in contracting with guest speakers Ms. Kirstin Riesbeck, DIU Deputy Director, People, Finance & Management, and Mr. John M. Tenaglia who serves as the Principal Director, Defense Pricing, Contracting, and Acquisition Policy (DPCAP).
Both events can be attended in person or virtually, and registration is required. For more information please visit:
ICAP Recognition Ceremony: https://www.dau.edu/events/immersive-commercial-acquisition-program-recognition-ceremony#tab1
Innovate to Win Webinar https://www.dau.edu/events/driving-innovation-contracting#tab1
To learn more about the ICAP fellowship and its impact on the defense acquisition process visit the ICAP website: https://www.diu.mil/work-with-us/immersive-commercial-acquisition-program-icap