GlobalNet Federal seeks 'big boy' status

GlobalNet Federal last week announced that it had acquired Applitech Inc.,

a professional services company that specializes in high-tech training and

logistical support services.

Both firms are based in Herndon, Va. GlobalNet Federal was launched

in April with the promise of providing strategic, lower-cost information

technology services to the federal government. Its acquisition of Applitech

enables it to move into the realm of computer- and World Wide Web-based

training, said George Filippides, GlobalNet's chairman and chief executive

officer.

One reason for acquiring Applitech is that GlobalNet didn't want to

be "a systems integrator just like everybody else," Filippides said. "We

want to deliver some difference to Uncle Sam, and our e-commerce systems

and methodologies service the average taxpayer tremendously. A contract

done the traditional way that costs $10 million, we can do for between $1.8

[million] and $2.3 million. "

Applitech provides multimedia training services for missile, air flight,

and other systems to government contractors including Northrop Grumman Corp.,

Raytheon Co. and Boeing Co.

"As part of GlobalNet Federal, we'll be able to expand our manpower

and revenues by bringing on new customers in areas [where] we're already

the leaders," said Tom Shea, chief executive officer of Applitech and the

new president of GlobalNet Federal. "Applitech's strength is in our ability

to apply new technologies to very specific needs, like using computer software

tools to develop multimedia training and documentation for defense contractors,

and then delivering that anytime, anywhere over the Internet."

In the past, GlobalNet Federal has acted as a subcontractor to larger

firms. But now the company has begun direct dealing with federal agencies,

including the Environmental Protection Agency, the Interior Department and

the Small Business Administration, Filippides said.

Filippides said he plans many more acquisitions, and Applitech's expertise

in technology training and educational content development will immediately

help GlobalNet Federal on its way to becoming one of the key players in

government contracting.

"We picked up an operating group with good contracts and good relationships

with the big boys," Filippides said. "And the more you play, the more they

consider you one of the big boys."