OMAHA, Neb. – The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Omaha District participated in the Society of American Military Engineers Omaha Post Industry Day at the CHI Health Center in Omaha, Nebraska, May 28–30, 2025.
SAME promotes engineering support for national security by fostering collaboration among government agencies, private industry and the military.
More than 500 local and regional industry representatives attended the annual event, which provides an opportunity to engage directly with district leadership, learn about upcoming contract opportunities and gain a comprehensive understanding of the Omaha District’s mission and priorities.
“SAME is one of our key partners, and we’re always looking for new and unique ways to collaborate on projects and outreach events,” said Col. Robert Newbauer, Omaha District commander. “As we continue to adapt to shifting requirements, our relationship with industry will be more important than ever in delivering critical projects for the nation.”
In addition to the commander, John Jaszkowiak, Survivable Airborne Operations Center program manager; Steven Carter, Transportation Systems Center director; and John Hickman, Contracting deputy chief, provided district program updates. Andy Temeyer, supervisory program manager, and Dustin Davis, supervisory civil engineer, also gave a technical presentation on USACE’s Sentinel Program.
Matt Hibbert, Office of Small Business Programs deputy, had the opportunity to briefly discuss from stage how USACE is committed to optimizing business opportunities for the small business community in federal acquisition programs sustaining Omaha District projects. He also spoke one-on-one with dozens of individuals representing a wide variety of businesses.
"It may not sound like much, but events like these definitely help humanize the government workforce,” Hibbert said. “In contracting, we often conduct business behind a screen, and while this approach is effective, it can cause the human element to get lost. These types of events help reestablish that personal connection, reminding us that there are people behind the processes."
The Omaha District also staffed a booth throughout the event, offering attendees the opportunity to learn more about contracting and partnership opportunities, both within the district and across the USACE enterprise.
The Omaha SAME Post was established 85 years ago under the leadership of Lt. Col. W.M. Hoge with just 28 members. Today, the post includes more than 500 members and supports the national SAME mission through leadership development, professional education and mentorship of emerging professionals.