How To Make Your First $10,000 with Government Contracts This Year

I recently had a conversion with Karen Blackwell. She brings a wealth of experience to the table, not only from her tenure as a Contracting Officer Representative but also as a Community Support Coordinator.?

It's important to clarify, as Karen humorously noted in our discussion, “Most importantly, is not a Karen," dispelling the often-negative connotations associated with the name.?

Transitioning from a Preschool Teacher to Government Contractor

Karen’s journey into government contracting? was anything but planned. “It was kind of an unusual story,” she said.?

Without any personal or familial military connections, her path was influenced unexpectedly by her ex-husband's ambitions to join the Air Force. The decision brought them to Oklahoma, a place she initially knew little about, leading her to pivot from a career in education to one in government.

“When I first moved to Oklahoma, I cried because I didn't even know where Oklahoma was,” Karen shared, reflecting on the stark transition from her planned life path to one dictated by the needs of military life.?

Initially working as a preschool teacher, her career took a big turn when she met someone who recognized her potential beyond early childhood education. “I had a gentleman who made a general mad because he would not put in a steam room in the gym.?

So they hid him out at the Youth Center, where I worked,” she explained. The encounter led to a conversation about her background in physical education, ultimately steering her towards a government job that better utilized her skills and education.

Getting Through Challenges and Winning Opportunities?

Throughout her career, Karen faced a lot of challenges but also found ways to leverage opportunities within the governmental framework. “Started out as a GS-3, and by the end of my career, I was a GS-12,” she stated, outlining her ascent through the ranks.

Karen's roles required not only a thorough understanding of the regulations and red tape common in government work but also a knack for getting through these challenges with grace and efficiency.

“One of my key strategies was to always be prepared for when money would drop at the end of the year,” Karen revealed. This readiness allowed her to quickly capitalize on available resources, ensuring that funds were used effectively and efficiently. Her proactiveness saved time and maximized the impact of the projects she managed.

Clear Communication

Reflecting on her extensive experience, Karen emphasized the importance of clear communication and strategic planning in government roles. “You have to really try to understand their world and communicate exactly what you need to get that contract rolling,” she advised those new to understanding government contracts.

Karen’s ability to adapt and her knowledge into the often-complicated world of government finance and contracting provide valuable lessons for anyone involved in or considering entering this field. Her job experience shows that being flexible, ready, and really understanding how the government works, are a must for doing well in government contracting.

I hope my conversation with Karen helps you learn more about government funding and contracting, and inspires you to check out this challenging yet rewarding field.

And if you want more tips on showing up as a GovCon Winner, then subscribe to my YouTube channel.?

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________________________________________________________________ I’m the author of the newly released book “The GovCon Winners Way: How To Win Government Contracts Faster Than Trying to Do It Alone!” At 28, I was awarded my first 5-figure federal government contract. I own and operate multiple government contracting businesses and have over $50 million in federal government contract awards. Today, I’ve helped my students win over $3M in Federal Government Contracts in less than 6 months, and I’ll help you, too!?

-#EverythingIsPossible

Click here now to subscribe to my official YouTube channel.

________________________________________________________________ I’m the author of the newly released book “The GovCon Winners Way: How To Win Government Contracts Faster Than Trying to Do It Alone!” At 28, I was awarded my first 5-figure federal government contract. I own and operate multiple government contracting businesses and have over $50 million in federal government contract awards. Today, I’ve helped my students win over $3M in Federal Government Contracts in less than 6 months, and I’ll help you, too!?

-#EverythingIsPossible