January jumps right into business

So much for winter doldrums. Agencies have been pushing policy, setting goals and moving forward, keeping contractors on their toes. The year starts with what some are calling the biggest IT transition ever, the Defense Department's Business Management Modernization Program, a new enterprise architecture. Staff Writer Doug Beizer took a close look at the project as it nears an important milestone -- the March release of the architecture's final version and its transition plan. What this means for you: big business. Check out Beizer's story for the details.For more than 30 years, Alaska Native Corporations and tribally owned companies have received regulatory advantages meant to help impoverished tribal communities. But now these companies are swimming in new business, Senior Writer Patience Wait found. Her story describes the efforts of officials and Congress to take a closer look ? and possibly rein in ? this branch of 8(a) companies.The Federal Aviation Administration's Next Generation Air Transportation System to overhaul the nation's air transportation system looks ahead to 2025 and the plan's completion. The first opportunities around this ambitious project, ultimately worth billions of dollars, will come this year. Staff Writer Roseanne Gerin's story in the Federal section is a must-read to see how you may fit into the grand plan.