Lexington, KY – The National Association of State Procurement Officials (NASPO) announced today a new phase of its Academic Talent Expansion Program, allowing more state procurement offices to partner with colleges and universities to attract and develop the next generation of public procurement professionals.

NASPO’s work with higher education has historically focused on direct partnerships with select universities and colleges. This expansion builds NASPO’s work with academic partners by empowering state procurement offices to have a more active role in developing relationships with higher education institutions within their communities. Through the program, states can work alongside NASPO to identify a university or college that aligns with their workforce needs and work to create opportunities that introduce students to public procurement

“Our goal is to build greater awareness of public procurement as a career and strengthen talent pipelines across the country,” said Daniel May, Deputy Chief Strategy Officer for NASPO. “There is incredible talent on college campuses nationwide, and by working together, we can bring public procurement to the forefront as students consider where they want to take their careers.”

Participating states and universities will have the flexibility, based on their individual needs and goals, to provide multiple ways for students to connect with procurement professionals and gain exposure to the field. NASPO can support through access to internships, scholarships, career fairs, guest speakers, research collaborations, and more.

As the program expands, NASPO will continue working with states and universities to bring public procurement into career conversations and student experiences across the country. Through this, we will strengthen the profession’s presence on college campuses and build the talent pipeline for years to come.

“This enhanced program creates opportunities for our states and connects them with faculty, students, and new ideas,” said Brandi Ann Willard, Director of Strategic Initiatives for NASPO. “These connections will support the future of public procurement and help shape how the profession is viewed by generations to come.”

For more information about the Academic Talent Expansion Program, reach out to NASPO at [email protected].

About NASPO: NASPO® is a non–profit association dedicated to advancing public procurement through leadership, excellence, and integrity. It is made up of the directors of the central purchasing offices in each of the 50 states, the District of Columbia, and the territories of the United States. NASPO is an organization that helps its members achieve success as public procurement leaders through the promotion of best practices, education, professional development, research, and innovative procurement strategies. www.naspo.org