Achievement of Excellence in Procurement ® (AEP) 2026 Educational Series

Join the Achievement of Excellence in Procurement® evaluation team for a series of “AEP Educational Sessions”.

These sessions will be interactive and allow participants to ask questions of the panel.

Questions? Email [email protected]

 Looking for past years' educational sessions/additional resources?

Check out the NPI YouTube channel!

January 15 – AEP Award Platform Tutorial 3:00 EST

Session Objective: Demonstration of navigating the Achievement of Excellence in Procurement® Award application platform and introduction to resources to support the preparation and submittal process.

Register here

February 26 – Rise to Excellence: AEP Award Tips, Tricks and Winning Strategies 3:00 EST

Session Objective:  Learn from a seasoned expert who has guided their organization to award-winning results, including insights on organizing a compelling submission, highlighting your team’s strengths, and leveraging professional development initiatives.  Whether you’re a first-time applicant or striving to maintain your streak, this session offers practical advice to help you navigate challenges, showcase your achievements, and position your agency for recognition.

Register here

March 17 – Cooperative Procurement Strategy (Criteria 16) 3:00 EST

Session Objective: Cooperative procurement programs are designed to provide value to entities in ways such as reduced administrative costs, accelerated service delivery, advantageous pricing or opportunities for increased standardization. Having a proper cooperative procurement strategy in place can ensure procurement professionals properly analyze the available contracting tools including many differing types of cooperatives.
Tammy Rimes - NCPP

April 16 – Showcasing Staff Development: Documentation Strategy to Successfully Demonstrate AEP (Criteria 3) 3:00 EST

Session Objective: Learn from an AEP Award winning agency recognized as a Model Submittal for Criteria. They will share practical guidance on how to successfully document and demonstrate compliance with AEP Criteria 3: Established Procurement Staff Professional Development Program. Attendees will explore effective strategies for capturing outcomes, organizing supporting materials, and showcasing measurable achievements that strengthen an AEP submission.
Pam Wilsky – County of Volusia

Register here

May 7th – 3:00pm EST – Final Wrap-Up and Questions 3:00 EST

Session Objectives:   Join us for the Final Wrap-Up and Questions webinar, your last opportunity to ensure your AEP submission is ready for submission. This interactive session will provide final insights into the submission process, answer your last-minute questions, and review key upcoming dates and events, so you can stay ahead and continue your journey toward procurement excellence. Don’t miss this chance to get the clarity and support you need before the deadline!

Register here

  Thank you to our Educational Partner Axia Cooperative for their generous support allowing us to provide these sessions at no cost.