One of the realities of federal contracting is this: contracts don’t last forever.

Whether you’re supporting a defense program, a test and evaluation team, or logistics operations, your job is often tied to a statement of work—and when the work ends, so can the role. But that doesn’t mean you stop being valuable.

In fact, what you do between contracts can be just as important as what you do on the job. It’s your chance to level up, stay sharp, and prove to the next program manager that you’re not just experienced—you’re essential.

Here’s how I approach staying valuable during downtime:

 

1. Keep Learning—Always

If there’s one thing I’ve learned from both the Navy and the contracting world, it’s this: the mission evolves, and so should you.

Between contracts, I carve out time to take online courses, earn certifications, or study something relevant to my field. Recently, I completed Google’s Project Management Certificate series—not because I needed it right away, but because it adds tools to my belt for future roles.

Certs worth looking into (depending on your field):

• CompTIA Security+ or Network+
• OSHA HAZMAT or Safety certifications
• PMP or Agile for project work
• Forklift, RF scanner, or equipment-specific quals
• DoD-specific courses like AMMO-18 or AMMO-49

Every new credential gives your resume more weight.

 

2. Update Your Resume and Portfolio

Don’t wait until you’re scrambling to apply for your next contract. Use the in-between time to rebuild your resume, gather performance bullets, and document specific accomplishments.

Here’s what I include:

• Systems I worked on (e.g., Quickstrike Mines, Hammerhead)
• Special projects I led or improved (e.g., warehouse zoning systems)
• Metrics (inventory audits, test events supported, zero QA failures, etc.)
• Technical tools used (OIS, Intermec RF, SDS systems)

This is also a good time to polish your Webflow or LinkedIn profile, if you have one. Showcase who you are—not just what you’ve done.

 

3. Stay in Touch With Your Network

Federal contracting is a small world. Program managers, site leads, government reps—they remember who delivered. I make a point to stay in touch with my previous supervisors, mentors, and even coworkers. A simple “just checking in” or “congrats on the new contract” message goes a long way.

Bonus: sometimes, opportunities come through these channels before they’re even posted publicly.

 

4. Volunteer to Fill Gaps or Support Short-Term Roles

If you’re still with the company but waiting for the next full-time role, don’t sit idle. Offer to help on short-term projects, audits, or cross-train with another team. This keeps your name visible and shows leadership that you’re still invested—even when things slow down.

You might also gain exposure to areas that expand your career options in the future.

 

5. Refocus on Personal Projects (Without Losing Discipline)

Between contracts is also the best time to breathe. Spend time with your family. Work on hobbies that ground you—I build furniture and tinker in the garage. But I still wake up early, write down daily goals, and keep a routine.

It’s okay to rest. But stay ready. The call to return to the mission can come at any time—and you’ll want to hit the ground running.

 

Final Thoughts

In federal contracting, your value isn’t just in what you did last time—it’s in how prepared you are for what comes next. Staying valuable between contracts means staying active, informed, and connected.

Whether it’s sharpening your skillset, mentoring others, or just showing you’re still in the fight, those small actions build the reputation that keeps you in demand.

Your badge might be on pause. But your mission mindset doesn’t have to be.