Who typically serves on a Contracting Officer Warrant Board (COWB)?

The group that typically serves on a Contracting Officer Warrant Board (COWB) consists of senior contracting officials and legal advisors. This composition is essential because these members possess the necessary expertise to assess the qualifications of individuals seeking a contracting officer's warrant. Senior contracting officials bring experience in procurement processes and regulations, which is crucial for ensuring that all actions align with statutory and regulatory requirements. Legal advisors are also critical to the board as they provide guidance on legal implications and compliance with the Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR) and other pertinent legal frameworks. Their involvement ensures that the board’s decisions are not only prudent from a contracting standpoint but also legally sound, ultimately contributing to effective risk management within the contracting process.