Frequently Asked Questions
Q: If I live in the DC area, do I have to stay at The Ritz-Carlton Pentagon City during Week 1?
Due to the busy schedule, all participants are expected to stay at the hotel both for convenience and networking. Meeting days generally begin at 7:30 a.m. and end each night between 8:30 p.m.-9:00 p.m. Cancelling a room does not realize any cost savings since they are guaranteed in advance under contract for the program.
Q: Do I need a rental car while attending APEX?
All transportation will be coordinated by the APEX staff; therefore, it is not recommended that you rent a car for APEX.
Q: Will we have any free time during the program?
During week one you will have an hour break daily before dinner. On Wednesday, March 21st, you will have an evening at leisure, in which dinner is optional.
Q: Do I need to pack for both weeks?
Yes. Pack for the entire program as you will probably not have the opportunity to return home between the residential week and travel week. However, for those who reside in the local area, you will have an opportunity on Wednesday, March 21st to return home and pick up additional items.
Q: When is business attire required during Week 1?
Business attire, which includes a tie for men, is required at the Pentagon on Monday, March 19th and Tuesday, March 20th.
Q: When is business attire required during Week 2?
Business attire is required during our visits to the Combatant Commands Tuesday, March 27th - Friday, March 30th. This is defined as slacks, sports coat and open collar (full business suites are not necessary on week 2).
Q: When is business casual recommended during Week 2?
Business casual is recommended on Friday, March 23rd - Monday, March 26th, because of the nature of our tours and meetings. Women are strongly encouraged to wear slacks during this time because we will be climbing ladders, etc.
Q: What is APEX's definition of business casual?
Business casual is defined by this program as slacks, comfortable walking shoes, open collar or golf shirts.
Q: Will I have an opportunity for self-laundry service during Week 2?
There is self-laundry service available at the Holiday Inn on the Bay in San Diego. There is a Laundromat near the Antler's Hilton hotel in Colorado Springs, but not in the hotel. There is 1 washer and dryer combination at The Hampton Inn in Las Vegas. There are laundry services available through billeting at STRATCOM, and there is 1 washer and dryer at the Marriott Miami Airport hotel.
Q: I don't have an official photograph. Do I have to have one?
We are strongly encouraging everyone to submit a photograph, primarily for networking purposes. However, we do not want this requirement to place an undue burden on you. We will have a digital camera available to take your picture on the first day of APEX 34.
Q: What are the security clearance procedures for APEX 34?
JPAS ONLY to verify clearance information - SMO Code DDAADC. If your clearance is not kept via JPAS, your agency Security Officer and agency Special Security Officer (SSO) will need to pass clearances. Please visit 'Registration' for complete instructions on what information to submit if you do not use JPAS. If your clearance is out of scope, please ensure you have an open investigation and it can be seen in JPAS.
For further information, please contact Washington Headquarters Service security office POC, Sylvia Johnson, at 571-372-3983 or by e-mail at sylvia.johnson@whs.mil.