GSE Systems Annual Report 2021

Plain-text annual report

GSE SYSTEMS INC FORM 10-K (Annual Report) Filed 03/31/22 for the Period Ending 12/31/21 Address Telephone CIK 6940 COLUMBIA GATEWAY DRIVE, SUITE 470 COLUMBIA, MD, 21046-3308 4109707874 0000944480 Symbol GVP SIC Code Industry Sector Fiscal Year 7372 - Services-Prepackaged Software IT Services & Consulting Technology 12/31 http://www.edgar-online.com © Copyright 2022, EDGAR Online, a division of Donnelley Financial Solutions. All Rights Reserved. Distribution and use of this document restricted under EDGAR Online, a division of Donnelley Financial Solutions, Terms of Use. UNITED STATESSECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSIONWashington, D.C. 20549FORM 10-K(Mark One) ☒ ANNUAL REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d)OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934For the fiscal year ended December 31, 2021 ☐ TRANSITION REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d)OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934For the transition period from ____ to ____ Commission File Number 001-14785 GSE Systems, Inc.(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)Delaware 52-1868008(State of incorporation) (I.R.S. Employer Identification Number) 6940 Columbia Gateway Dr., Suite 470, Columbia MD 21046(Address of principal executive offices) (Zip Code)Registrant’s telephone number, including area code: (410) 970-7800 SECURITIES REGISTERED PURSUANT TO SECTION 12(b) OF THE ACT:Title of each class Trading Symbol(s) Name of each exchange on which registeredCommon Stock, $0.01 Par Value GVP The NASDAQ Capital MarketSECURITIES REGISTERED PURSUANT TO SECTION 12(g) OF THE ACT: NONEIndicate by check mark if the registrant is a well-known seasoned issuer, as defined in Rule 405 of the Securities Act. Yes ☐ No ⌧Indicate by check mark if the registrant is not required to file reports pursuant to Section 13 or 15(d) of the Act. Yes ☐ No ⌧Indicate by check mark whether the registrant (1) has filed all reports required to be filed by Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to file such reports), and (2) has been subject to such filingrequirements for the past 90 days. Yes ⌧No □Indicate by check mark whether the registrant has submitted electronically every Interactive Data File required to be submitted pursuant to Rule 405 ofRegulation S-T (§ 232.405 of this chapter) during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to submit such files). Yes⌧No □Indicate by check mark if disclosure of delinquent filers pursuant to Item 405 of Regulation S-K is not contained herein, and will not be contained, to thebest of registrant’s knowledge, in definitive proxy or information statements incorporated by reference in Part III of this Form 10-K or any amendment to thisForm 10-K. [ ]Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a large accelerated filer, an accelerated filer, a non-accelerated filer, a smaller reporting company, or anemerging growth company. See the definitions of “large accelerated filer”, “accelerated filer”, “smaller reporting company” and “emerging growth company”in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act. (Check one):Large accelerated filer □Accelerated filer □Non-accelerated filer □Smaller reporting company ☒Emerging growth company ☐ If an emerging growth company, indicate by check mark if the registrant has elected not to use the extended transition period for complying with anynew or revised financial accounting standards provided pursuant to Section 13(a) of the Exchange Act. ☐Indicate by check mark whether the registrant has filed a report on and attestation to its management’s assessment of the effectiveness of its internalcontrol over financial reporting under Section 404(b) of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act (15 U.S.C. 7262(b)) by the registered public accounting firm that prepared orissued its audit report. Yes ☐ No ☒Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a shell company (as defined in rule 12(b)-2 of the Exchange Act). Yes ☐ No ⌧The aggregate market value of Common Stock held by non-affiliates of the Registrant was $37,342,565 on June 30, 2021, the last business day of theRegistrant’s most recently completed second fiscal quarter, based on the closing price of such stock on that date of $1.01.The number of shares outstanding of the registrant’s Common Stock as of February 28, 2022 was 20,980,811 shares.DOCUMENTS INCORPORATED BY REFERENCEPortions of the registrant’s Proxy Statement for the 2022 Annual Meeting of Shareholders to be filed pursuant to Regulation 14A under the SecuritiesExchange Act of 1934, as amended, are incorporated by reference into Part III.TABLE OF CONTENTSPART I PageItem 1.Business3Item 1A.Risk Factors16Item 1B.Unresolved Staff Comments27Item 2.Properties27Item 3.Legal Proceedings28Item 4.Mine Safety Disclosures28 PART II Item 5.Market for Registrant’s Common Equity, Related Shareholder Matters, and Issuer Purchases of Equity Securities29Item 6.Selected Financial Data29Item 7.Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations30Item 7A.Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk41Item 8.Financial Statements and Supplementary Data42Item 9.Changes in and Disagreements with Accountants on Accounting and Financial Disclosure77Item 9A.Controls and Procedures77Item 9B.Other Information78Item 9C.Disclosure Regarding Foreign Jurisdictions that Prevent Inspection78 PART III Item 10.Directors, Executive Officers and Corporate Governance*78Item 11.Executive Compensation*79Item 12.Security Ownership of Certain Beneficial Owners and Management and Related Shareholder Matters*79Item 13.Certain Relationships and Related Transactions, and Director Independence*80Item 14.Principal Accountant Fees and Services*80 PART IV Item 15.Exhibits and Financial Statement Schedules80Item 16.Form 10-K Summary81 SIGNATURES85 Exhibits Index81*to be incorporated by reference from the Proxy Statement for the registrant’s 2021 Annual Meeting of Shareholders.Table of ContentsCAUTIONARY STATEMENT REGARDING FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS.This report and the documents incorporated by reference herein contain “forward-looking” statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Actof 1933 and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (the “Exchange Act”) that are based on management’s assumptions, expectationsand projections about us, and the industry within which we operate, and that have been made pursuant to the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995reflecting our expectations regarding our future growth, results of operations, performance and business prospects and opportunities. Wherever possible, wordssuch as “anticipate”, “believe”, “continue”, “estimate”, “intend”, “may”, “plan”, “potential”, “predict”, “expect”, “should”, “will” and similar expressions, orthe negative of these terms or other comparable terminology, have been used to identify these forward-looking statements. These forward-looking statementsmay also use different phrases. These statements regarding our expectations reflect our current beliefs and are based on information currently available to us.Accordingly, these statements by their nature are subject to risks and uncertainties, including those listed under Item 1A Risk Factors, which could cause ouractual growth, results, performance and business prospects and opportunities to differ from those expressed in, or implied by, these forward-looking statements.We may not actually achieve the plans, intentions or expectations disclosed in our forward-looking statements and you should not place undue reliance on ourforward-looking statements. Actual results or events could differ materially from the plans, intentions and expectations disclosed in the forward-lookingstatements we make. Except as otherwise required by federal securities law, we are not obligated to update or revise these forward looking statements to reflectnew events or circumstances. We caution you that a variety of factors, including but not limited to the factors described below and in Item 1A Risk Factors,could cause our business conditions and results to differ materially from what is contained in forward-looking statements: •changes in the rate of economic growth in the United States and other major international economies;•changes in investment by the nuclear and fossil electric utility industry, the chemical and petrochemical industries, or the U.S. military;•changes in the financial condition of our customers;•changes in the regulatory environment;•changes in political climate;•changes in project design or schedules;•contract cancellations;•changes in our estimates of costs to complete projects;•changes in trade, monetary and fiscal policies worldwide;•currency fluctuations;•war and/or terrorist attacks on facilities either owned by our customers or our company, or where equipment or services are or may be provided;•catastrophic failure or other incident at facilities either owned by our customers or our company, or where equipment or services are or may beprovided;•initiation, prosecution, or outcomes of future litigation;•protection and validity of our trademarks and other intellectual property rights;•increasing competition by foreign and domestic companies;•compliance with our debt covenants;•recoverability of claims against our customers and others;•changes in estimates used in our critical accounting policies; and•impact of the Novel Coronavirus (COVID-19), or other future pandemics, on the global economy and on our customers, suppliers, employees andbusiness.The forward-looking statements are based upon management’s beliefs and assumptions and are made as of the date of this report on Form 10-K. Other factorsand assumptions not identified above were also involved in the formation of these forward-looking statements and the failure of such other assumptions to berealized, as well as other factors, may also cause actual results to differ materially from those projected. Most of these factors are difficult to predict accuratelyand are generally beyond our control. You should consider the areas of risk described above and in Item 1A Risk Factors in connection with any forward-looking statements that may be made by us. You should not place undue reliance on any forward-looking statements. New factors emerge from time to time,and it is not possible for us to predict which factors will arise. 2Table of ContentsWe undertake no obligation to publicly update any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise. You areadvised, however, to consult any additional disclosures we make in proxy statements, quarterly reports on Form 10-Q and current reports on Form 8-K filedwith the SEC. Company Information Available on the Internet Our Internet address is www.gses.com. We make available free of charge through our Internet site our annual reports on Form 10-K; quarterly reports on Form10-Q; current reports on Form 8-K; proxy statements, and any amendment to those reports filed or furnished pursuant to the Exchange Act as soon asreasonably practicable after such material is electronically filed with, or furnished to, the SEC. PART I ITEM 1.BUSINESS. GSE Systems, Inc. (hereinafter referred to as “GSE”, the “Company”, “we”, “us” or “our”), a Nasdaq-listed company trading under the symbol GVP, is aleading provider of engineering services and technology, expert staffing, and simulation software to clients in the power and process industries. We providecustomers with simulation, engineering technology, engineering and plant services that help clients reduce risks associated with operating their plants, increaserevenue through improved plant and employee performance, and lower costs through improved operational efficiency. In addition, we provide professionalservices that help clients fill key vacancies in the organization on a short-term basis, including but not limited to, the following: procedure writing, planningand scheduling; engineering; senior reactor operator (“SRO”) training and certification; technical support and training personnel focused on regulatorycompliance and certification in the nuclear power industry. Our services help our customers provide clean energy to all in a reliable and safe manner. There is growing recognition of the importance of low and zerocarbon energy as the United States in particular, and the world in general, races to decarbonize power grids. We are uniquely positioned as one of the largestindependent nuclear services companies in the United States to support decarbonization of the power industry. In fact, the more wind and solar that comes ontothe grid, the greater zero carbon base-load becomes to ensure grid stability, reliability and safety. Decarbonization is a leading means of deliveringenvironmental equity – ensuring that anyone regardless of background and economic status can benefit from a safe and healthy environment, free of pollutionrelated to carbon intensive power generation. Our operations also include interactive software for tutorials and simulation for the refining, chemical, andpetrochemical industries. We execute projects globally with approximately 308 employees, as of December 31, 2021. We operate from offices in the U.S. and China and with additionalemployees deployed at client sites. While most of our revenue comes from support provided to the nuclear power industry, we also serve agencies in the UnitedStates Department of Energy (“DOE”), the United States Navy and adjacent defense opportunities, and the oil and gas, refining, chemical, and petrochemicalmarkets. GSE was formed to consolidate the simulation and related businesses of General Physics International Engineering & Simulation, S3 Technologies, andEuroSim. We completed our Initial Public Offering in 1995. Since 2014, GSE has grown by consolidating and acquiring businesses serving the nuclear power industry. On November 14, 2014, we acquired Hyperspring,LLC (“Hyperspring”). Hyperspring is a nuclear industry focused staffing and training firm that employs highly skilled, high-value professionals primarilyfilling training and consulting positions on a contract basis for nuclear power plant operators. Hyperspring professionals provide training, operations andmaintenance support including: generic fundamentals exams, accreditation training visit preparation, SRO certification, procedure development, workmanagement, tagging/labeling, outage execution, planning/scheduling, corrective action, self-assessments and equipment reliability. On September 20, 2017,we acquired Absolute Consulting, Inc. (“Absolute”). Absolute is a provider of technical consulting and staffing solutions to the global nuclear power industrywith expertise in procedure writing, engineering, technical support, scheduling, planning, project management, training, project controls, and corrective actions.On May 11, 2018, we acquired True North Consulting, LLC (“True North”). True North is a provider of engineering solutions to nuclear and non-nuclearpower plants with an emphasis on regulatory-driven, American Society of Mechanical Engineers (“ASME”) code programs. On February 15, 2019, weacquired DP Engineering Ltd, Co. (“DP Engineering”). DP Engineering is a specialized provider of high-value engineering services and solutions to the nuclearpower industry. Founded in 1995 in Fort Worth, Texas, DP Engineering generates over 90% of its revenue from the nuclear power industry with core expertisein mechanical design; civil/structural design; electrical, instrumentation and controls design; digital controls/cyber security; and fire protection. DP Engineeringprimarily works under master service agreements as the Engineer of Choice (“EOC”). 3Table of ContentsFOCUS FOR 2022 Early in 2020 as the COVID-19 pandemic unfolded, the end markets that we serve, the power industries, delayed certain essential services and dramatically cutback on non-essential services. Although this impacted us, as an essential services provider to an essential industrial base, we benefited from maintaining abaseline of business to continue and align itself to the realities of the pandemic. Additionally, as the pandemic effects started to wane, resulting staffingshortages in industry resulted in new opportunities for our Workforce Solutions segment (further defined below under Operating Segments). In 2021, theeffects of the pandemic continued to impact the end markets we serve, but those effects were mitigated by a number of factors, including the following: thepandemic largely has had a targeted effect on the population; the availability of vaccines to address COVID-19 and, despite logistical challenges, making solidprogress for those in most need; the economy of the United States has not had as much disruption as was initially feared which has benefited our end markets;and most importantly our end markets seem poised to spend to catch up on essential services that had been delayed as a result of the pandemic. As weconcluded 2021 and entered 2022, we achieved several, significant contract “wins” that we publicly announced. We are optimistic that both the opportunitiesand successes are a harbinger of a more attractive business environment for the power industries that we serve.As we look ahead to 2022 and beyond, with a new administration in the United States, there is renewed focus on decarbonizing the power sector, which isrecognized as a key means in achieving environmental equity. The new administration is in the process of rejoining the Paris climate accord, has spoken insupport of zero carbon power sources such as nuclear, and has spoken of increased public spending in support of the industry and related industries. Thebipartisan infrastructure plan passed in 2021 specifically has spending elements in support of nuclear power and technology development.In light of these emerging policies, there has been significant increase in the public awareness of the essential requirement that nuclear be a big part of the gridto achieve zero carbon goals. In an article early in 2020, Yale360.com, highlighted the potential of new generation Small Module Reactors (“SMRs”) in drivingthe achievement of a zero-carbon grid. Nuclear, especially SMRs, are recognized for their potential to replace carbon intensive power generation whilemaintaining a smaller footprint than existing coal plants. In February 2021, the Montana State Senate approved a feasibility study to evaluate replacing coalfired power generation with SMRs at the Colstrip power plant. Further, the benefits of SMRs are also noted as a key element to restore ecological systemswhile simultaneously maintaining zero carbon power generation. Idaho GOP Rep. Mike Simpson has proposed a sweeping $33.5 billion plan to save thePacific Northwest’s iconic salmon that includes breaching four of the most controversial dams in the country. The power generation of the dams would bereplaced by building SMRs as part of this plan. As 2021 unfolded, Canada, Poland, the Czech Republic, Bulgaria and Romania have all announced plans topursue the build out of nuclear power generation, especially initial review of SMRs. Finally, Management feels that we are well positioned as one of the largestindependent businesses focused on services supporting decarbonization through our support of the nuclear power industry to benefit from these developmentsin the economy and governing policy.Branding GSE Systems, Inc. remains the legal name of the parent company, publicly traded on Nasdaq under the ticker symbol “GVP”; GSE operations and marketinguses the more distinct trademark “GSE Solutions” as a way to communicate the fact that GSE’s specialized business units help customers reduce risk andoptimize performance through unique solutions, a centralized project approach, expert resource management, and a culture of continuous improvement to drivedecarbonization of the power industry.OPERATING SEGMENTS 4Table of ContentsWe operate through two reportable business segments: Performance Improvement Solutions and Workforce Solutions. Each segment focuses on deliveringsolutions to customers within our target markets. Marketing and communications, accounting, finance, legal, human resources, corporate development,information systems and other administrative services are organized at the corporate level. Business development and sales resources are generally aligned witheach segment to support existing customer accounts and new customer development. The business units collaborate to facilitate cross-selling and thedevelopment of new solutions. The following is a description of our business segments:Performance Improvement Solutions (approximately 51.0% of revenue) Our Performance Improvement Solutions segment primarily encompasses our power plant high-fidelity simulation solutions, technical engineering services forASME programs, power plant thermal performance optimization, and interactive computer-based tutorials/simulation focused on the process industry. ThePerformance Solutions segment includes various simulation products, engineering services, and operation training systems delivered across the industries weserve: primarily nuclear and fossil fuel power generation and the process industries. Our simulation solutions include the following: (1) simulation software andservices, including operator training systems, for the nuclear power industry, (2) simulation software and services, including operator training systems, for thefossil power industry, and (3) simulation software and services for the process industries used to teach fundamental industry processes and control systems tonewly hired employees and for ongoing workforce development and training. We and our predecessors have been providing these services since 1976. Our Performance Improvement Solutions segment include the following: (1) in-service testing for engineering programs focused on ASME OM code includingAppendix J, balance of plant programs, and thermal performance; (2) in-service inspection for specialty engineering including ASME Section XI; (3) softwaresolutions; and (4) mechanical design, civil/structural design, electrical, instrumentation and controls design, digital controls/cyber security, and fire protectionfor nuclear power plant design modifications. Our subsidiaries, True North and DP Engineering, typically work as either the EOC or specialty EOC for ourclients under master services agreements and are included in our Performance Improvement Solutions segment due to their service offerings. We have beenproviding these engineering solutions and services since 1995.Workforce Solutions (approximately 49.0% of revenue) The Workforce Solutions segment supports entire project lifecycles and provides highly specialized and skilled talent throughout the energy and engineeringindustries. Hyperspring provides training and professional service solutions, while Absolute provides technical and professional staffing and procedure writingexperts. Together, our Workforce Solutions team reduces risk and costs, boosts agility and responsiveness, eliminating non-productive time, all while providingtimely, flexible and effective solutions. Examples of some of the highly skilled positions we fulfill are senior reactor operations instructors, procedure writers,project managers, engineers, work management specialists, planners and training material developers. These employees work at our clients’ facilities underclient direction. We manage this business through our subsidiaries, Hyperspring and Absolute. The business model, management focus, margins and otherfactors clearly separate the business line from the rest of our product and service portfolio. We have been providing these services since 1997.Financial information is provided in Note 20 of the accompanying consolidated financial statements regarding our business segments and geographicoperations and revenue.BUSINESS STRATEGY, INDUSTRY TRENDS, PRODUCTS AND SERVICESBusiness Strategy Serve existing customers and adjacencies with compelling solutions, with a focus on decarbonization: Our objective has been to create a leading business focused on decarbonizing the power industries by providing a diverse set of highly unique and essentialservices and technologies. We are now one of the leading, publicly traded engineering and technology companies serving the zero-carbon energy sector ofnuclear power and adjacent nuclear markets in DOE, US Navy and related defense sectors. As a result of this effort and established leadership position in keysectors, we are positioned to expand into essential clean energy opportunities that may arise such as wind, solar, hydrogen production, and others. In 2022, wewill keenly focus on organic growth in the sectors we serve by: cross selling and upselling in our existing markets as we focus on delivering significant value toour customers in a manner of excellence; create new and compelling solutions in-house as a result of advancing our technology offerings in sponsorship withindustry early adopters focused on critical business need; develop new services as a result of combining our expertise; expand into compelling adjacentmarkets such as clean energy as they may arise with renewed sales focus.5Table of ContentsCross sell and upsell into existing markets: From 2015 through early 2019, we devoted considerable time and effort to diversify the Company’s solutions capabilities for the nuclear power sector via arollup of essential services providers to the industry. To ensure efficient and streamlined operations for the business, we have brought all of the engineeringservices together into one organization with one leader; and the Workforce Solutions teams together as one team under one leader. The business units operateuniformly within their respective structure. As such, the opportunity to cross-sell the capabilities across the entire customer base is greatly enhanced. Thisfurther differentiates us as a unique provider to industry vs. providers of specific niche services. The unified go-to-market efforts, such as cross-sellingcapability should lead to greater share of available spending within the customer base, which in turn should lead to significant upselling opportunity. As a resultof a rejuvenated marketing effort, we are equipped to take this new approach to market. In particular, with the US government rejoining the Paris ClimateAgreement and driving to decarbonize the energy grid by 2035, and create a carbon neutral economy by 2050, decarbonization of the energy sector will requiresignificant investment for decades to come. As a key provider of essential services to the power sector, with a focus on decarbonization, we are poised tobenefit from and exploit this investment.Organic growth through new and compelling technology: While managing through the pandemic, in parallel, our leadership was investigating compelling opportunities by which we could utilize our capabilities tocreate significant value for the industry and advance the efforts of decarbonizing the power sector. As a result, we have identified a robust pipeline of new andcompelling technology solutions to develop and take to market. Net new solutions, such as Data Validation and Reconciliation ("DVR") and Thermal SystemMonitoring ("TSM"), have created new revenue streams with the potential of on-going annuities through license revenue, software maintenance and servicesrevenue. More on DVR and TSM below. GSE has announced a handful of new wins for these new solutions, which were created through our uniquecombination of our industry/engineering know-how and software development capabilities. As we have demonstrated in the past few years, small wins overtime accrue into meaningful revenue on an on-going basis. This is a key element of our organic growth thesis: focusing on creating and bringing to marketcompelling technology solutions.Focus on compelling adjacencies in clean energy, defense, and national labs: Research and development (R&D). We invest in R&D to deliver unique solutions that add value to our end-user markets. Our software tools leverage the high-end expertise of our experienced staff in helping plants operate better and more efficiently. Our software technology together with our deep staff expertisesupports multiple industries including the nuclear industry, as a part of the larger decarbonization drive. Our software technology includes decision-supporttools for engineering simulation supporting design and plant commissioning, operational performance tools, and training platform.One area of significant recent enhancement is in improving the thermal performance of power plants. We have introduced the next generation platform in TSM,providing the technology platform to centralize and continuously monitor plant thermal performance. The solution benefits our customers by automatingstandardized reporting in modern dashboards available to engineers and decision makers across the fleet, leveraging automation to facilitate troubleshootingplant performance issues, reducing time and error with direct access to source data, and applying industry guidelines for problem resolution. This platform alsosupports integration with DVR (implemented by True North) that enhances the quality of data for plant performance insights, analysis and decision making,providing a solution to better detect and identify faulty measurements/sensors and thus reduce maintenance costs by focusing on critical components.In the area of engineering simulations, we deliver nuclear core and Balance-of-Plant modeling and visualization systems to the industry. To address the nuclearindustry’s need for more accurate simulation of both normal and accident scenarios, we provide our DesignEP® and RELAP5-HD® solutions. Our entireJADETM suite of simulation software, including industry leading JTOPMERET® and JElectricTM software, provides the most accurate simulation of Balance-of-Plant and electrical systems available to the nuclear and fossil plant simulation market. The significant enhancements we have made to our SimExec® andOpenSimTM platforms enables customers to be more efficient in the daily operation of their simulators. We have brought SimExec® and OpenSimTM togetherinto a next generation unified environment that adds new capabilities as requested by clients and driven by market need.6Table of ContentsAdditionally, enhancements to training content and delivery continue through the EnVision On-Demand platform, allowing our customers to access trainingcontent from anywhere in synchronous and asynchronous modes, thus increasing their efficiency and reducing infrastructure costs. We intend to continue tomake pragmatic and measured investments in R&D that first and foremost are driven by the market and complement our growth strategy. Such investments inR&D may result in on-going enhancement of existing solutions as well as the creation of new solutions to serve our target markets, ensuring that we addgreater value that is easier to use, at lower total cost of ownership than any alternative available to customers. We have pioneered a number of industrystandards and intend to continue to be one of the most innovative companies in our industry. During the years ended December 31, 2021 and 2020, we havemade R&D investments totaling $0.9 million and $1.0 million, respectively.Strengthen and develop our talent while delivering high-quality solutions.Over the past several years, we have assembled a unique and highly experienced group of talent through organic growth and strategic acquisition. Ourengineering team comprised of design, simulation, regulatory compliance, and performance optimization capabilities are unique to the industry and capable ofaddressing the entire power generation life cycle.Our experienced employees and management team are our most valuable resources. The continued integration of our team in parallel with attracting, training,and retaining top talent is critical to our success. To achieve our goals, we intend to remain focused on providing our employees with opportunities to increaseclient contact within their areas of expertise and to expand and deepen our service offerings. As we refine our product and service areas to best align with thecritical areas listed above, we will also integrate and apply our composite employee talent to the fullest extent possible combining employee personal andprofessional growth opportunities with fulfillment of cutting-edge industry needs. Performance-based incentives including opportunities for stock ownership,bonuses and competitive benefits as benchmarked to our industry and locations will also be utilized to ensure continuity of our approach.We have developed a strong reputation for quality services based upon our industry-recognized depth of experience, ability to attract and retain qualityprofessionals, and exceptional expertise across multiple service sectors. As we continue to integrate and leverage our individual company componentsassembled over the past several years, our capabilities and reputation will further strengthen. Industry Trends Industry need to build and sustain a highly skilled workforce We believe a critical ongoing challenge facing the industries we serve is access to, and continued development of, a highly trained and efficient workforce. Thischallenge manifests primarily in two ways: the increasing pace at which industry knowledge and experience are lost as a significant percentage of the existingexperienced workforce reaches retirement age; and the fact that as new power plants come on-line, there is an increased demand for more workers to staff andoperate those plants. In the United States, the energy industry is expected to lose a large percentage of its workforce within the next few years as baby boomers retire on thetraditional schedule. For example, Power Engineering reported that the power sector needs more than 100,000 skilled workers within the next few years toreplace retiring baby boomers. Electric, Light, and Power reported that 72% of energy employers currently struggle to find quality candidates and fill openpositions. The National Electrical Contractors Association reported that 7,000 electricians join the field each year, while 10,000 retire. Finally, the NuclearEnergy Institute estimated that 39% of the nuclear workforce were eligible to retire in the next few years. As the nuclear industry continues to operate andmodernizes its fleet and strains to maintain the high standards of training for the existing workforce, existing plant simulator systems, which provide a criticalenvironment for training services, are often operating 24 hours a day. As workers retire and the need to backfill as well as expand the workforce for new units,certain operators are exploring the opportunity to de-bottleneck their existing simulator capabilities through the creation of dual reference simulators. Otherworkforce shortages and/or short-term spikes in demand for specialist skills that we offer similarly are positive developments for our business. Further, as newnuclear technologies are researched and developed, such as new reactors and new fuels, the R&D industry needs to identify the right talent to advance thoseendeavors. Our business is uniquely positioned to identify and provide solutions that offer the best personnel for both short and long-term assignments. 7Table of ContentsGlobally, as more people increase their standard of living, there is an expectation that their demand for power will increase, which in turn will require the on-going construction of power plants to meet this surging demand. The drive to lower carbon emissions from power generation while ensuring a stable baseloadto accommodate intermittent energy sources such as wind and solar power brings focus on the essential nature of nuclear power. Developing a skilled laborforce to operate these plants and keeping their skills current and their certifications in compliance with regulatory requirements is a key challenge facing theglobal power industry. Status of decarbonization nuclear power in 2021/2022 According to World Energy Outlook report, 2019 had the second highest energy generation year for nuclear in history. By 2030, nuclear is planned to increasein generation capacity from roughly 400 GW to roughly 450 GW. Most new plants will be built in developing economies such as China and India, andadvanced economies will invest to extend the lifetimes and increase the output of remaining nuclear reactors to bridge the gap to a new generation of reactorsunder development. With that said, several western countries have announced plans to develop nuclear power, including but not limited to the United States [atIdaho National Laboratory ("INL") via Utah Associated Municipal Power Systems’ (“UAMPS”)], Canada, Czech Republic, Poland, Bulgaria and Romania.Decarbonizing the power sector is a key focus for advanced and developing nations. As a critical part of zero carbon clean energy, nuclear energy ensuresaccess to abundant, clean, reliable and affordable energy to all who can connect to the grid, no matter a person’s background or status. To combat climatechange and the pollution of the atmosphere, nuclear is a key element to decarbonizing the power sector across the world. As more variable sources of powercome on to the grid, such as wind and solar, ensuring a stable grid requires baseload, and nuclear is the essential source of economically scalable carbon freebaseload. As such, nuclear, wind and solar are tied together in the massive effort to decarbonize economies the world over. Nuclear provides 10% of the world’s power, and 20% of power for the United States. President Biden is on record indicating a desire to decarbonize theUnited States power sector by 2035 and achieve a carbon neutral grid by 2050. The bipartisan infrastructure legislation passed into law in 2021 had specificallocation to enhance the nuclear power sector. To support this effort, the Department of Energy has made significant investment in the development of nextgeneration zero carbon energy production through the development of advanced reactors and/or small modular reactors from Terra Power, X-Energy, NuScaleand others.These reactors are quickly becoming realty, with a January 2021 announcement of an agreement to facilitate the development of a project proposal for aNuScale-designed plant to be built at the United States Department of Energy (“DOE”) Idaho National Laboratory grounds. Engineering, procurement andconstruction firm, Fluor, will provide its services for Utah Associated Municipal Power Systems’ (“UAMPS”) Carbon-Free Power Project. The project includesplans for nuclear energy featuring NuScale’s small modular reactor design. NuScale has been a long-time customer, using our simulation technology andengineering services to enhance their reactor design, operations and accelerate NRC licensing efforts. In addition to the NuScale plans, HOLTEC, another firmwith SMR technology, is studying the feasibility of building an SMR facility in New Jersey at the Oyster Creek site of a decommissioned traditional nuclearpower plant. GE Hitachi Nuclear has also made a number of exciting announcements regarding their SMR technology being considered in Canada, Poland,potentially Clinch River in the United States, and elsewhere. The SMR momentum is noted in the mainstream press. The Wall Street Journal notes the significant plans for SMRs being developed in the United States andelsewhere at an accelerated clip. In addition to the plants currently planned, as mentioned earlier in this document, proponents of SMRs, see them as acomplementary role in the smart grid of the future—replacing coal- and gas-fired plants and operating alongside wind and solar. All of this is part of a broader effort for decarbonization that we, through the aforementioned strategies, plan to exploit for organic growth.Products and Services Performance Improvement Solutions 8Table of ContentsOur engineering team, comprised of design, simulation, regulatory compliance, and performance optimization capabilities are unique to the industry andcapable of addressing the entire power generation life cycle. As we move forward in alignment with client and industry goals targeting clean energy productionand overall decarbonization we are positioned to be at the forefront in three critical areas:•optimization of existing generation assets•design support and deployment of advanced reactor designs•integration with renewable power sourcesOptimizing Existing Generation AssetsAs the existing fleet of nuclear reactors age and competitive pressures increase, we find ever increasing significance in being able to provide value to theircontinued operation. Maximizing power production through a variety of methods such as digital verification and reconciliation, a statistical based analysisused to lower uncertainty, and thus increase recognized power output is instrumental in helping these facilities face current competitive pressures. Otherapproaches involving safe reduction of testing and inspection requirements or performance periodicities are also at the forefront of our cost saving techniqueswith defined services and products providing a clear and positive return on investment. In all cases, these efforts are aligned with keeping this important sourceof carbon free base power economically and technically viable.Advanced Reactor Designs & Deployment Designers of first-of-a-kind plants or existing plants need a highly accurate dynamic simulation platform to model a wide variety of design assumptions andconcepts from control strategies to plant behavior to human factors. Because new builds and upgrades to existing plants result in deployment of newtechnology, often involving the integration of disparate technologies for the first time, a high-fidelity simulator enables designers to model the interactionbetween systems in advance of construction. With our combination of simulation technology and expert engineering, we were chosen to build first-of-a-kindsimulators for the AP1000, PBMR, and small modular reactors such as those being built by NuScale. Going forward, we also envision many of theoptimization techniques and strategies currently emphasized for the existing reactor fleet incorporated with new-build prototypes as they begin to add value andassume a larger component of our clean, carbon free, power requirements.Renewable Integration A significant component of overall decarbonization regarding power generation will ultimately fall to renewable sources such as wind, solar, and hydrogeneration. These technologies are individually well on their way towards assuming a significant share of the overall generation make-up and are expected tosignificantly increase. One of the particular needs is the ability to safely and efficiently integrate these renewable sources with our existing and planned nucleargeneration. We are on the cutting edge, working closely with academia and industry support organizations to design, model, and evaluate creative approachesto support this integration. Base load production, renewable availability, and other pertinent factors are at the core of the solutions we are exploring.Engineering Solutions for Decarbonization With overall decarbonization as our primary focus, we will blend our current and future efforts in those areas described above to best support that goalpositioning our Engineering team as recognized leaders in the pursuit of Clean Energy. An overview highlighting many areas of our current and plannedinvolvement as well as the associated benefits is summarized below:With nuclear power being such a high percentage of carbon free power generation, the continued safe and efficient operation of these plants is critical tomeeting decarbonization goals. We help the industry achieve these goals through better training and provide engineering services to optimize performancewhile maintaining regulatory compliance. Our focus is on products and services to improve the efficiency and lower operating costs for existing powergeneration assets as well as help the next generation of carbon free power plants achieve design approval and plant startup as quickly as possible.9Table of ContentsTraining plant operators and engineers is critical to safe operations and continued viability of the industry. Using state-of-the-art modeling tools combined withour leading nuclear power modeling expertise, we provide simulation solutions that achieve unparalleled fidelity and accuracy. We have also adapted thesesolutions to provide highly accurate training across a variety of delivery platforms. These include universal or generic simulators which are excellent inteaching fundamental concepts, systems, and plant behaviors. They are also used by academia for research on improved plant operations, human factors designand the development of automated procedures and decision support systems for the next generation of reactors. Our part task simulators and virtual controlpanels are cost effective solutions enabling customers broader freedom in where they deliver simulation training and opening the door for plant engineers andmaintenance staff to access high fidelity training without interrupting the operator training program. Our full scope simulators use the most sophisticatedmodeling technology. For these reasons, we have delivered more nuclear power plant simulators than any other company in the world.Even prior to the COVID pandemic, we had delivered training products though the cloud. This delivery method reduces our customers infrastructure andownership costs and provides anytime, anywhere access to rich learning content. Innovative Critical Thinking Exercises enable autonomous simulation trainingto take place, reducing the burden on instructors and increasing training touch time for students and employees. All of which enable the training organization tobe more flexible and efficient.Our simulation solutions not only address industry training needs, but are used for simulation assisted engineering, the process of using simulation to virtuallytest and commission plant designs prior to construction. Because new builds and upgrades to existing plants result in deployment of new technology, our high-fidelity simulator enables designers to model the interaction between systems in advance of construction. With our combination of simulation technology andexpert engineering, we were chosen to build first-of-a-kind simulators for the AP1000, PBMR, and small modular reactors such as those being built byNuScale. This technique reduces design costs, accelerates design approvals, de-risks projects, and provides clients with a tool to sell their new plant designs toboth customers and regulators. In essence, enabling our customers to get to market faster.Beyond training, our technology is used to improve the efficiency of existing power generation assets. Our TSM System provide live insights into plantoperations, by monitoring performance of key plant equipment, analyzes degradation and advises actions to be taken. When combined with DVR techniques,we can help reduce operating and maintenance cost. DVR enhances the quality of data for analysis and decision making, providing a solution to better detectand identify faulty measurements/sensors and thus reduce maintenance costs by focusing on critical components.Our EP-Plus software suite provides one common platform for all engineering programs, helping client engineers keep track of engineering program inspectionand monitoring requirements aimed at safe plant operations. This reduces the engineering workload of our customers, saving costs and enabling staff to focuson the most critical activities.All of these technologies leverage the vast experience and industry expertise of our engineering team. Our engineering team helps our clients throughout theentire plant lifecycle. We are the Engineer of Choice (“EOC”) in areas such as:•Design engineering for plant mechanical, electrical, I&C, civil and structural, fire protection and cyber systems•Engineering programs addressing ASME codes, balance of plant programs other regulatory programs and economic driven programs such asplant thermal performance•Simulation engineering for nuclear, thermal and process plant training and virtual commissioningWe see organic growth through closer integration of these engineering activities and technologies to provide solutions to improve the performance of ourcustomers’ people and plants. Workforce Solutions 10Table of ContentsAs our customers’ experienced employees retire or pursue other opportunities, access to industry experts to operate and train existing and new employees howto operate nuclear plants is essential to ensure safe, ongoing plant operation. In addition, operating and training needs change over time and sometimes ourclients require fixed-price, discrete projects, new or updated methods, or specialized courses in contrast to straight staff augmentation. The industry needsoperating personnel, including procedure writers, engineers, operators and instructors who can step in and use, as well as, update the client’s operatingmethods, procedures, training material and more. Finding technical professionals and instructors, who know the subject, can perform the work or teach it toothers and can adapt to the client’s culture is critical. We provide qualified professionals, instructors and turnkey projects/courses that work within the client’ssystem and complement the operating or training methods they already have in place. Examples of our training program courses include senior reactor operator(“SRO”) certification, generic fundamentals training, and simulation supervisor training. We also provide expert support through workforce solutions,consulting, or turnkey projects for procedure writing, technical engineers, project managers, training material upgrade and development, outage execution,planning and scheduling, corrective actions programs, and equipment reliability. Our Workforce Solutions segment include traditional staffing services, such astemporary and direct hire, as well as customized approaches in which we work with our customers to evaluate their specific needs and put together a strategicplan specifically to meet their unique needs. Workforce solutions is not only a complement to our other service offerings; it often leads the way as the preferredmethod for many of our clients to execute entire projects and/or supplement their own staff during project peak periods or with specialized skill sets that areoften hard to find. Our staffing experts give our customers the ability to ramp up quickly, eliminate risks, and provide more flexible options as situations oftendemand.In addition to the core training and staffing business lines in the nuclear sector, we continue to see significant organic growth opportunity with our WorkforceSolutions segment by expanding our service offerings to meet the evolving needs of the energy industry as well as other opportunities that supportdecarbonization and major infrastructure projects. Due to the experience within our team, we are well positioned to expand our Workforce Solutions segmentofferings through our existing relationships and industry knowledge. This growth is occurring both with existing and new customers. We are placing a greateremphasis on cross-selling the services offered by our Workforce Solutions segment with our Performance Improvement Solutions segment. The WorkforceSolutions segment continues expanding our footprint with companies dedicated to the support of decarbonization, and our success is showing with contractawards, scope expansion, and targeted opportunities to support engineering, manufacturing, and construction projects with companies dedicated to clean energysolutions. We have continued to better position us to support these opportunities with strategic hires and staff alignment. As the recent increases in employmenttransition have demonstrated, companies must also be able to adapt quickly to evolving staffing needs. This has certainly been demonstrated with companiesadjusting and allowing more employees to work from home, but it’s not the only answer. Employees are making changes in their professional lives for manyreasons, and our workforce solutions offer our customers added support and more flexibility to support ever changing needs. In fact, Workforce Solutions isuniquely positioned for growth in these types of employment environments. Our flexible solutions, and specialized industry experience position us both forcurrent and future staffing needs.We recognize the necessity to listen to the needs of our customers and provide the right solution. Whether the answer is one of our traditional service offeringsor putting together a customized approach, we have the capabilities to help our customers get the job done. We bring together the collection of skills we haveamassed over more than 40 years beginning with its traditional roots in custom high-fidelity simulation and training solutions for the power industries,extended through the acquisition of specialized engineering capabilities, enhanced by the entry and intermediate level training solutions of EnVision, backed bythe extensive Workforce Solutions services of Absolute and Hyperspring, and now strengthened by our ability to successfully adapt, diversify, and offer asolutions based approach with our Workforce Solutions.CUSTOMER AND LOCATIONSFor almost 50 years, we have been developing next-generation, custom training simulation technologies. Since we built the first commercial full-scope nuclearpower plant simulator in 1971, we have completed more than 1,100 installations across the power and process industries in 50 countries.In 2021, approximately 12% of our revenue was generated from end-users outside the United States and we have a concentration of revenue from oneindividual customer, which accounted for 13.8% of our consolidated revenue, respectively. A small representative list of our customer base includes: ABB Inc.,American Electric Power, Bechtel Hanford National Laboratory, Duke Energy, EDF Energy (United Kingdom), Emerson Process Management, EntergyNuclear Operations Inc, Exelon, PSEG Nuclear, Inc., Siemens AG (Germany), Southern Nuclear Operating Company, Inc., State Nuclear Power AutomationSystem Engineering Company (China), Savannah River Nuclear Solutions, LLC, Slovenkse Elektrarne, A.S. (Slovakia), Tennessee Valley Authority, andWestinghouse Electric Co. Hydrocarbon and chemical process customers include numerous large oil refineries and chemical plants such as BP (worldwide),Statoil ASA (Norway), Chevron, Shell Oil Company (worldwide), Total (Belgium), and Valero (USA).11Table of ContentsMARKETING AND SALES We market our products and services through a network of direct sales staff, agents and representatives, and strategic alliance partners. Market-orientedbusiness and customer account teams define and implement specific campaigns to pursue opportunities. We continue to have a proactive public relations program, issuing non-financial press releases to announce product development and significant deliveries, aswell as our presence at numerous industry trade shows and technical conferences. We are active on numerous social media platforms and strive to build astrong presence across all media that our clients use to find information about us. Our goal is to provide useful information at each stage of the client’s journeywith us. Our ability to support our multi-facility, international, and multinational clients is facilitated by our network of offices and strategic partners in the U.S. andoverseas. In addition to our office located in China, our ability to conduct international business is enhanced by our multilingual and multicultural workforce.We have strategic relationships with system integrators and agents representing its interests in Bulgaria, Japan, Malaysia, Singapore, South Korea, Taiwan,Ukraine and various locations in the Gulf Coast Countries of the Middle East. COMPETITION In the nuclear simulation market, we compete directly with firms primarily from Canada, France and the U.S., such as L-3 MAPPS Inc., a subsidiary of Harris(Canada), CORYS T.E.S.S (France) and Western Services Corporation. In the fossil simulation market, we compete with smaller companies in the U.S. andoverseas. In the process industry, our main competition comes from large digital control system/automation companies such as Honeywell and Schneider. Inour engineering market, we compete with firms primarily from North America such as Enercon Services, Kinectrics, Sargent & Lundy, and AECOM. The Workforce Solutions business services include technical professional and training-related and services as well as staff augmentation solutions. Thecompetition for these services includes but is not limited to the following: GP Strategies (acquired by LTG in 2021), The Westwind Group, ProfessionalTraining Technologies, and Western Technical Services. The competition for staff augmentation includes: System One, Aerotek, and Peak Technical.Competition with staff augmentation is further impacted by wide scale industry consolidation as a result of the growing movement toward use of ManagedStaffing Providers (MSPs). As some competitors, have been forced to close their doors, others have lost market share with the MSP model as it has shown aclearer picture of which companies can best deliver. By conducting in depth reviews and ensuring strategic alignment with MSP providers, WorkforceSolutions has continuously found success with the MSP models and avoided the missteps that have impacted other competitors.Competitive Advantages Although there is competition in various industry niches, few companies in our space compare to our engineering, simulation and performance optimizationexpertise, especially for the nuclear power industry. Few of our competitors serve the broader performance improvement market and few work across the fullspectrum of energy markets addressing clean energy sources and decarbonization initiatives, specifically, existing nuclear generation, advanced reactorapplications, and ongoing integration with renewable power sources. Our unique combination of talent and expertise, built through organic and acquisition-based growth has positioned us perfectly to align with the clean energy initiatives of our clients and the industry at large.Full Spectrum Support. Over the past several years we have assembled a unique and highly experienced group of talent through organic growth and strategicacquisition. Our Engineering team comprised of design, simulation, regulatory compliance, and performance optimization capabilities are unique to theindustry and capable of addressing the entire power generation life cycle. A major and ongoing attribute associated with this unique grouping of expertise is ourmulti-tiered approach aimed at leveraging the aggregate strengths and abilities of our resource components towards maximizing client and shareholder value.This centers on the following key areas:12Table of Contents•Retain and strengthen our “Base” revenue through optimization of current capabilities and established client relationships.•Integrate our product and service areas to provide more comprehensive or enhanced solutions when internal or external value can be identified.•Explore, evaluate, and develop new collaborative service areas, products, and solutions closely aligned with internal core strengths, client goals, andoverall industry clean power initiatives.Base Revenue and Strategic Integration. We will continue to build upon what has historically worked well for our Engineering Service Areas maintaining ourclient connections through efforts that provide a clear and immediate return such as optimized power generation and efforts that reduce or extend testing andinspection requirements. In parallel we are aggressively evaluating ways to integrate and package our design, simulation, and plant performance componentsto further enhance client benefit. In many cases this is structured with our historical base scope of supply proposed as the stand-alone foundation with optionalscopes included to deliver a more integrated comprehensive solution if desired.New Product / Service Areas. A dedicated, strategically focused exercise centered on evaluation of core capabilities, potential adjacencies, client needs, andindustry direction has resulted in several new product or service initiatives within our Engineering group. Further development, expansion, and application ofexisting product lines and associated services have moved to the forefront of this effort with the added benefit of minimizing engineering and informationtechnology level of effort while maintaining very high client benefit. Additional competitive advantage are also present through client contracts which helpfund the R&D components of the initiatives. Proprietary Software Tools. We developed a library of proprietary software tools including auto-code generators and first principles-based system models thatsubstantially improve and expedite the design, production and integration, testing and modification of software and systems. These tools are used toautomatically generate the computer code and systems models required for specific functions commonly used in simulation applications, thereby enabling us orour customers to develop repeatable high-fidelity, real-time software quickly, accurately and at lower costs. We also have an expertise integrating third-partyengineering codes into our simulation environment, thereby offering some of the most sophisticated technical solutions in the market. We have a substantiallibrary of process-specific simulation models and e-learning modules aimed at the oil and gas, refining and specialty chemicals markets. Lastly, our TSMplatform is being used as a plant performance reporting tool and as the graphical user interface for our DVR service initiatives which provide high value clientreturn through power recovery and other optimization strategies. This platform also serves as the foundation for our new product service initiatives withnumerous optional modules and applications under consideration. Performance Expertise. We are a leading innovator and developer of engineering directed solutions for the power generation industry. Our design, simulation,and plant performance resources are fully engaged with industry developments and client requirements routinely providing answers to our clients most pressingneeds. Design modifications addressing base generation usage for nuclear facilities, optimization of power production through innovative statistical analysis,and real-time simulation software producing high-fidelity, real-time plant simulation are representative examples. As of December 31, 2021, we employed ahighly educated and experienced multinational workforce of approximately 308 employees, including approximately 135 engineers and scientists in fields suchas nuclear, chemical, mechanical and electrical engineering, applied mathematics and computer sciences, and approximately 112 instructors and plantoperations staff specialists.Unique Combination of Talent. Few in our market space bring together the sophistication of simulation technology with the engineering expertise, trainingexpertise and plant performance expertise to provide the holistic people and plant performance improvement solutions as well as we do. Reputation for Customer Satisfaction. As part of its ISO-9001:2015 Quality Program Certification, we measure customer satisfaction across numerous factorssuch as On-Time Delivery, Problem Solving, and Customer Communication. In each category measured, we routinely exceed customer expectations. Training Curricula We have developed hundreds of detailed courses and simulator exercise material and specific industrial applications including oil and gas refining, gas-oilproduction, nuclear and combined cycle gas turbine power plant and desalination. Our Workforce Solutions business is mostly focused on training and operations support. Our trainers and consultants provide their services at customerfacilities which allows us to interface with our customers directly in the course of doing business versus only periodically calling on customers. Our proximitygives us a significant competitive advantage in that we can immediately offer and implement solutions rather than contending with lengthy bid processes. 13Table of ContentsINTELLECTUAL PROPERTY We depend upon our intellectual property rights in our proprietary technologies and our distinctive trade and service marks. We maintain a portfolio of:trademarks and servicemarks (both registered and unregistered) on our logos, product and service names, and other elements of trade dress; copyrights (bothregistered and unregistered) on written materials including software code, manuals, and other creative works; trade secret protections on its proprietarytechnologies and methodologies; and licenses from third parties to use and commercially exploit other protected intellectual property. While such trademarks,copyrights, trade secrets, and inbound licenses as a group are of material importance to us, we do not consider any one trademark, copyright, trade secret, orlicense to be of such importance that the loss or expiration thereof would materially affect us. We distribute our software products under software licenseagreements that grant customers nonexclusive and nontransferable licenses for the use of the products. Usage of our licensed on-premise software is restrictedto designated computers at specified sites, unless the customer obtains a site-wide license for its use of the software. Our software products delivered as aservice (SaaS) over the internet also contain customer verifications and usage limitations. We employ not only software and hardware security measures toprevent unauthorized use of its software, but also detailed contractual terms and limitations within our license and service agreements to prohibit unauthorizedusage or reproduction. We offer our customers both perpetual software licenses with unlimited duration (as long as the customer complies with the licenseterms) and term-limited software licenses and usage agreements. We do not own any patents. We believe that all of our trademarks are valid and will have an unlimited duration as long as they are adequately protected andsufficiently used. We have numerous registered U.S. trademarks, including: GSE Systems®, JTOPMERET®, RELAP5-HD®, TOTALVISION®, VPanel® andSimExec®. We believe that our international trademark protection is adequate to our business needs. We also claim trademark rights to DesignEP™, JavaApplication and Development Environment (JADE)™, OpenSim™, PSA-HD™, RACS™, SimSuite Pro™, SmartTutor™, THOR™, and Xtreme I/S™.Despite these protections, we cannot be sure that we have protected or will be able to protect our intellectual property adequately, that the unauthorizeddisclosure or use of our intellectual property will be prevented, that others have not or will not develop similar technology independently, or, to the extent weown any patents in the future, that others have not or will not be able to design around those patents. Furthermore, the laws of certain countries in which ourproducts are sold do not protect our products and intellectual property rights to the same extent as do the laws of the United StatesGOVERNMENT REGULATIONS Our operations are directly and indirectly affected by political developments and both domestic and foreign governmental regulations. We cannot determine theextent to which changing political priorities, new legislation, new regulations or changes in existing laws or regulations may affect our future operations,positively or negatively. INDUSTRIES SERVEDThe following chart illustrates the approximate percentage of our 2021 and 2020 consolidated revenue by industries served: Years ended December 31, 2021 2020 Nuclear power 91% 89%Fossil fuel power 6% 7%Process 3% 4%Total 100% 100% 14Table of ContentsBACKLOGAs of December 31, 2021, we had approximately $41.3 million of total gross revenue in backlog compared to $40.4 million as of December 31, 2020. Most ofour contract terms are for less than 24 months. Our backlog includes only those amounts that have been funded and authorized and does not reflect the fullamounts we may receive over the term of such contracts. Our backlog includes future expected revenue at contract rates, excluding contract renewals orextensions that are at the discretion of the client. We calculate backlog without regard to possible project reductions or expansions or potential cancellationsunless and until we have reason to believe that such changes may occur. Backlog is expressed in terms of gross revenue and, therefore, may include significant estimated amounts of third-party or pass-through costs to subcontractorsand other parties. Because backlog is not a defined accounting term, our computation of backlog may not necessarily be comparable to that of our industrypeers. HUMAN CAPITAL As of December 31, 2021, we had approximately 308 employees, which include 187 in our Performance Improvement segment and 121 in our WorkforceSolutions segment. The 308 employees are comprised of 241 fulltime employees and 67 part time employees, Excluding our Workforce Solutions segment,which consists primarily of specialized instructors, our employee attrition rate for 2021 among all staff was approximately 7.5%. To date, we have been able tolocate and engage highly qualified employees as needed and we expect our growth efforts to be addressed through attracting top talent.Our people are what make us who we are today. Not only does it depend on employing highly skilled professionals but also people who can work together,effectively and collaboratively, as a team, whether departmental, cross functional, or cross company. Our employees come from diverse backgrounds as well asa diverse geography, and we look to attract people by offering a positive and welcoming work environment, strong management and leadership teams, alongwith a competitive compensation and benefit package.Talent Management We are committed to recruiting, hiring, retaining, and developing the most talented and skilled professionals & graduates available in the job market. Ourapproach to talent management includes a rigorous selection process followed by coaching, training, and knowledge transfer. We differentiate our programfrom typical performance management programs by focusing on the manager’s role. HR provides support but the day-to-day interactions that ensure theemployee’s success come from the manager. They coach and develop employees through their active and regular interactions. This is a critical part of bothcurrent performance as well as knowledge transfer from our more experienced staff that may be nearing the end of their career, to our less experienced.Training takes place internally and across our companies to take advantage of our SMEs in our industry. As a result of this we can integrate different talentpools to be interchangeable across projects. In addition, we offer a tuition reimbursement that allows employees to further their education or attend externalprofessional development programs.In 2022, we will be putting career paths in place and compensation structures that will increase our retention rates as well as offering leadership developmentfor our upcoming, emerging leaders that will lead us into the future.Compensation & BenefitsWe offer market competitive compensation and benefit programs for our employees in order to attract and retain superior talent. In addition to competitive basewages, additional benefits provided include: a Long-Term Incentive Stock Option Plan, a Company matched 401(k) Plan, healthcare and insurance benefits,health savings and flexible spending accounts, paid time off, family leave, and employee assistance programs.Diversity & Inclusion A diverse and inclusive workforce adds value to our Company and helps us succeed. We believe diversity is important because it provides varied insight andvaried perspectives which results in innovative thinking, better decision making and faster problem solving. Having a diverse workforce also brings differentskill sets and experiences that are shared throughout the Company. Our culture, which is collaborative in nature, provides for inclusion of all employees in allaspects of our work. Health, Safety, & COVID-19 15Table of ContentsThe health and safety of our employees is of paramount importance to us. Our OSHA records show that we have had zero injuries/illnesses in the past fouryears, and we attribute that to our employees working carefully so they don’t get injured. We provide everyone a safety manual and the employees that work atpower plants are also provided with the necessary safety training on site.In response to COVID-19, we have implemented some protocols to keep our employees safe. All employees are provided remote work with office visitsrestricted to essential work only and includes use of masks, social distancing, and proper hand washing and cleaning protocols. Travel has also been limited toessential work only. While some employees are doing essential work at client sites, all our clients have provided their COVID safety protocols, and they arestrictly adhered to.During COVID-19, our employees have faced the challenges of maintaining their mental health as well as providing an environment for their children toparticipate in virtual learning. In response to this, we have provided multiple mental health resources for our employees and their families includingsubscriptions to Headspace as well as a wellness program that incentivizes and motivates people to eat healthy, get some form of exercise, and destress. Wealso offer an Employee Assistance Program (“EAP”) and full access to mental health providers through our health partner, Cigna. And in order for ouremployees to be able to assist in the virtual learning environment with their children, we have offered flexible work schedules to accommodate their needs.COVID-19Our employees began working remotely during the first quarter of 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic and will continue to do so when practical and asmandated by local, state and federal directives and regulations. Employees almost entirely work from home within our Performance Improvement Solutionssegment, except when required to be at the client site for essential project work. Our performance contracts, which are considered an essential service, arepermitted to and mostly continue without pause; however, we have experienced certain delays in new business. For our staff augmentation business, we haveseen certain contracts for our Workforce Solutions customers pause, delay, and/or reduce scope as clients faced their own challenges associated with shrinkingtheir on-premise workforces to the minimum operating levels in response to the pandemic; as a result, our Workforce Solutions segment has experienced adecline in its billable employee base since the start of the pandemic. We cannot fully estimate the length or gravity of the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic,and we have experienced delays in commencing some projects, as a result, our ability to recognize revenue has been delayed for some contracts. We routinelymonitor our operating expenses as a result of contract delays and have made adjustments to keep our gross profit at a sustainable level.ITEM 1ARISK FACTORS. The following are some of the factors that we believe could cause our actual results to differ materially from historical results and from the resultscontemplated by the forward-looking statements contained in this report and other public statements we have made. Additional risks and uncertainties notpresently known to us, or that we currently see as immaterial, may also harm our business. Most of these risks are generally beyond our control. If any of therisks or uncertainties described below, or any such other or additional risks and uncertainties actually occurs, our business, results of operations and financialcondition could be materially and adversely affected. The following information should be read in conjunction with Item 1 – Business, Item 7 – Management’sDiscussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations and the consolidated financial statements and related notes under Item 8 – FinancialStatements and Supplementary Data.RISKS RELATED TO MACROECONOMIC CONDITIONS AND COVID-19 A regional epidemic or global pandemic, including the COVID-19 virus may adversely affect our business operations and financial condition. A regional epidemic or global pandemic, depending upon its duration, severity, could have a material adverse effect on our business. 16Table of ContentsIn March 2020, the World Health Organization declared the COVID-19 virus a global pandemic and President Donald J. Trump declared a national emergencyin the United States. This pandemic has caused substantial disruptions to populations, including economic markets and businesses, worldwide. Governmentand public health officials have and are expected to continue to recommend significant regulations and restrictions in order to contain the spread of the virusand mitigate harm. These regulations and restrictions, adopted at varying times and extents in the affected locations, have had (and may continue to have)serious adverse impacts on economic markets and the operation of businesses in those locations. This pandemic has increased macroeconomic and stockmarket volatility and uncertainty, which may continue. Parts of our business have been and could continue to be adversely affected by this pandemic. In response to the pandemic, varying restrictions have beenimplemented, either by government order or by voluntary measures, to try to contain the spread of virus and mitigate harm, such as temporary closures orrestrictions on business operations, and/or the imposition of social distancing, quarantine, remote work, or other limitations on in-person meetings. The timingand severity of these imposed restrictions have varied in jurisdictions and, while some have been lifted, they could be reinstated at any time. These disruptions have and may continue to adversely affect our customers’ operations. These disruptions have and may continue to impact the ability of oursubcontractors, partners, and suppliers to operate and fulfill their contractual obligations. Depending on the severity and duration of these disruptions and thesubsequent supply chain effects, customer demand, our ability to meet demand, and our revenue and profit margins, may continue to be negatively impacted. These disruptions have and may continue to adversely affect our own business operations. Our employees, in many cases, are working remotely and usingvarious technologies to perform their functions. Personnel performing services offered by our Performance Solutions segment, have been classified as essentialby most governmental bodies in affected jurisdictions, and accordingly have for the most part been able to continue without pause. Because of the embeddedpresence of personnel in our Workforce Solutions segment, this segment has faced restrictions on personnel being deployed to customer sites, which negativelyimpacts our business that is related to those disrupted services. Both the health and economic aspects of the COVID-19 virus are highly fluid and the futurecourse of each is uncertain. For these reasons and other reasons that may come to light if the coronavirus pandemic and associated protective or preventativemeasures expand, we may experience a material adverse effect on our business operations, revenues and financial condition; however, its ultimate impact ishighly uncertain and subject to change. Due to the uncertainty of the severity and duration of these events, the extent and effectiveness of containment and mitigation measures that make be taken bygovernmental authorities or voluntarily, to the extent the COVID-19 pandemic, or any other regional epidemic or global pandemic has or may adversely impactour business, such impact may also heighten other risks set forth in this Section 1A – Risk Factors. We are subject to regulations and laws related to COVID-19 impacting our workforce. On September 9, 2021, President Biden released the COVID-19 Action Plan, Path Out of the Pandemic (the “Plan”), with the stated goal of getting morepeople vaccinated. As part of the Plan, Executive Order 14042, Ensuring Adequate COVID Safety Protocols for Federal Contractors (the “Order”), creates theSafer Federal Workforce Task Force (the “Task Force”), which released guidance for U.S. Government contractors and their subcontractors. This guidanceincluded mandatory vaccination of all employees working on or for a government contract, either directly or indirectly, by January 4, 2022 (subject to medicaland religious exemptions). As a part of the Plan and Order, President Biden also directed, the Department of Labor’s Occupational Safety and HealthAdministration (“OSHA”) to issue an Emergency Temporary Standard (“ETS”) requiring that all employers with at least 100 employees ensure that their U.S.-based employees are fully vaccinated for COVID-19 or obtain a negative COVID-19 test at least once a week. On November 4, 2021, the OSHA issued thisETS, however the implementation of the ETS was blocked by federal appeals courts, pending resolution of ongoing litigation challenging the constitutionalityof the ETS, and the ETS was withdrawn by OSHA on January 25, 2022. OSHA, however, has not withdrawn the proposed rule that would effectuate the samemandate, and it cannot be known whether OSHA may reissue the ETS or otherwise issue new emergency temporary standards imposing similar mandates. Wehave already received notice by both government customers and prime contractors serving government customers regarding the vaccination requirement and itsapplication to our business with those customers. As an employer of more than 100 employees, we would also be subject to the ETS or a similar mandateshould it become effective. It is possible that additional jurisdictions where we do business may impose similar mandates that would apply to our employees. In addition, certain of our customers have or may require vaccines for those of our employees who provide on-site service at their facilities. We will continue tomonitor the status of these or other mandates or regulations and their application to us and our business. Our efforts, to comply with these or other mandatesand restrictions, including continuing to require that some or all of our employees be fully vaccinated against COVID-19, or submit to frequent testing, couldresult in increased costs, labor attrition and disruption, as well as difficulty in securing future labor needs, and could adversely impact our ability to deliverservices to the jurisdictions or customers where such mandates or restrictions are imposed.17Table of ContentsWe are subject to a wide variety of laws and regulations, and these may change. Our businesses are subject to regulation by U.S. federal and state laws, and foreign laws, government regulations and policies, and other administrativerequirements. Changes to laws or regulations may require us to modify our business objectives if existing practices become more restricted, subject toescalating costs, or prohibited outright. Particular risks include possible curtailment of our intended business activities or strategies as a result of changed ornew regulatory risks arising from federal laws and regulations, such as laws and regulations regarding export of sensitive technologies or technical informationor changed interpretations of existing laws and regulations. Our business and the industries in which we operate are also at times being reviewed orinvestigated by regulators, which could lead to enforcement actions, fines and penalties, or the assertion of private litigation claims and damages. Anysignificant change to laws, regulations, enforcement policies, or liability regimes, or other actions by government bodies having jurisdiction over our business,may have material adverse effects on our business and profitability. We have only limited ability to foresee, plan for, or influence changes to theserequirements. RISKS RELATED TO OUR INDUSTRY Our business is largely dependent on sales to the nuclear power industry. Any significant disruption in this industry would have a material adverseeffect upon our revenue and profitability. In 2021 and 2020, 91.0% and 89.0% of our revenue, respectively, was from customers in the nuclear power industry customers. We expect to derive asignificant portion of our revenue from customers in the nuclear power industry for the foreseeable future. Market demand for, and our ability to supply nuclearpower plant simulators and related products and services is dependent on the continued operation of nuclear power plants globally and, to a lesser extent, on theconstruction of new nuclear power plants. A wide range of factors affect the continued operation and construction of nuclear power plants, including thepolitical, regulatory and legal environment in which they operate, the availability and cost of alternative means of power generation, the occurrence of futurenuclear incidents, such as the one which occurred at the Fukushima Daiichi nuclear plant in 2011, and general economic conditions. Significant regulatorychanges in the U.S. or abroad could materially affect demand for our products, the profitability of our service deliveries to nuclear power industry customers,and the overall efficacy of our current business model. Customer concentration in the U.S. nuclear power industry subjects us to risks and uncertainty, which we may not be able to mitigate throughdiversification. The U.S. nuclear industry has significant customer concentration with a limited number of entities owning all of the 93 nuclear reactors currently operating inthe United States. In 2021, we continued to experience high customer concentration with respect to each of our businesses. Indeed, one customer accounted for13.8% of our total consolidated revenue for the year-ended December 31, 2021. We monitor our customer concentration and seek to diversify our customerbase within this concentrated industry. In addition to pursuing diversification strategies and expanding relationships with targeted customers, we mitigate theassociated customer concentration risk by developing meaningful relationships with each nuclear power plant, which are often separately responsible forvendor selection and individual procurement decisions. While our acquisition activity has the potential to diversify our customer base through inorganic means, we have also found that some of the strongestcommercial opportunities are within our existing customer base, as our existing relationships are a resource for introductions, due diligence, and businessintelligence. Our acquisition of DP Engineering highlights these kinds of opportunities and challenges. Through the acquisition process, we benefited frominsights obtained from our subsidiaries who work side-by-side with DP Engineering within our existing footprint. At the same time, DP Engineering hadsignificant customer concentration within our existing customer base. As a result, our strategy with DP Engineering included a focus on new customeracquisition and diversification. Despite this strategy, DP Engineering was significantly impacted by the loss of a significant customer. The nuclear power industry, our largest customer group, is associated with a number of hazards which could create significant liabilities. 18Table of ContentsOur business could expose us to third party claims with respect to product, environmental and other similar liabilities. Although we have sought protectionfrom these potential liabilities through a variety of legal and contractual provisions as well as through liability insurance, the effectiveness of such protectionshas not been fully tested. Certain of our products and services are used by the nuclear power industry primarily in operator training. Although our contracts forsuch products and services typically contain provisions designed to protect us from potential liabilities associated with such use, there can be no assurance thatwe would not be materially adversely affected by claims or actions which may potentially arise due to factors that may be outside of our direct control. The industries in which we operate are highly competitive. This competition may prevent us from raising prices at the same pace at which our costsincrease. Our businesses operate in highly competitive environments with both domestic and foreign competitors, many of whom have substantially greater financial,marketing, and other resources than we do. The principal factors affecting competition in our industries include price, technological proficiency, ease of systemconfiguration and use, product reliability, applications expertise, engineering support, local presence, personal relationships, and the relative financial stabilityof the competitor. We believe competition in the simulation fields may further intensify in the future as a result of advances in technology, consolidations andstrategic alliances among competitors, increased costs required to develop new technology and the increasing importance of software content in systems andproducts. Because our business has a significant international component, changes in the value of the dollar could adversely affect our ability to competeinternationally and could reduce our profitability on international business opportunities that we do win. Any of these competitive factors, or any combinationof two or more factors, could make it more difficult for us to bid successfully on new projects, or to complete projects at profit margins that we considerreasonable. An inability or reduced ability to win new work would have a material adverse impact on our backlog and revenue, and an inability or reducedability to secure reasonable profit margins on projects awarded to us would have a material adverse impact on our profitability and overall results of operations RISKS RELATED TO OUR PRODUCTS, SERVICES, AND BUSINESS PRACTICES Our simulation business is dependent on product innovation and research and development, which costs are incurred prior to realization of revenuefor new products and improvements. We believe that our success will depend in large part on our ability to maintain and enhance our current product line, develop new products, maintaintechnological competitiveness and meet an expanding range of customer needs. Our product development activities are aimed at the development andexpansion of our library of software modeling tools, the improvement of our display systems and workstation technologies, and the advancement andupgrading of our simulation technology. The life cycles for software modeling tools, graphical user interfaces, and simulation technology are variable andlargely determined by competitive pressures and the evolution of software and standards that may be controlled by third parties. Consequently, we will need tocontinue to make significant investments in research and development to enhance and expand our capabilities in these areas and to maintain our competitiveadvantage. We cannot control, and we may be unable to predict accurately, the development and evolution of these competitive pressures and external softwareand standards. We may be unable to monetize our investment in research and development in a timely manner, or at all. Unexpected or excessive delays inrealizing a return on these investments may have a material and adverse effect on our cash position, results of operations, and financial condition. Our backlog is subject to unexpected adjustments and cancellations and may not be a reliable indicator of future revenues or earnings. Backlog represents products or services that our customers have committed by contract or purchase order to purchase from us and that we have not yetdelivered or recognized as revenue. Our backlog as of December 31, 2021 and 2020 was $41.3 million and $40.4 million, respectively. There can be noassurance that the revenues projected in our backlog will be realized or, if realized, will result in profits. Because of project cancellations or changes in projectscope and schedule, we cannot predict with certainty whether or when backlog services will be performed, or products delivered. In addition, even where aproject proceeds as scheduled, it is possible that contracted parties may default and fail to pay amounts owed to us. Our poor project performance couldincrease the cost associated with a project. Thus, delays, suspensions, cancellations, payment defaults, scope changes and poor project execution couldmaterially reduce or eliminate the revenues and profits that we actually realize from projects in backlog. Reductions in our backlog due to cancellation ormodification by a customer or for other reasons may adversely affect, potentially to a material extent, the revenues and earnings we actually receive fromcontracts and orders included in our backlog. Many, but not all, of the contracts in our backlog provide for cancellation fees in the event customers cancelprojects. These cancellation fees usually provide for reimbursement of our out-of-pocket costs and payments, for work performed prior to cancellationincluding varying percentages of the profits we would have realized had the contract been completed. We usually have no contractual right to payment for all ofthe lost revenue or lost profits in the event of cancellation of the contracts and orders reflected in our backlog, however. Projects may remain in our backlog forextended periods of time. If we experience significant project terminations, suspensions, or scope adjustments to contracts reflected in our backlog, ourfinancial condition, results of operations and cash flows may be adversely impacted. 19Table of ContentsWe may encounter difficulties in effectively integrating acquired businesses. As part of our business strategy, we have acquired, and intend to acquire, companies with compatible or related products. These acquisitions will beaccompanied by the risks commonly encountered in acquisitions of companies, which include, among other things: •potential exposure to unknown liabilities of the acquired companies; •higher than anticipated acquisition costs and expenses; •depletion of cash and other Company assets and resources in connection with the acquisition or integration; •difficulty and expense of integrating the operations and personnel of the companies, especially if the acquired operations are geographicallydistant or culturally different; •potential disruption of our ongoing business and diversion of management time and attention; •failure to maximize our financial and strategic position by the successful incorporation of acquired technology; •difficulties in adopting and maintaining uniform standards, controls, procedures, and policies; •loss of key employees and customers as a result of changes in management; and •possible dilution to our shareholder. We may not be successful in overcoming these risks or any other problems encountered in connection with any of our acquisitions, and if we are not successful,our financial results may be materially impacted. We may be forced to modify our strategic objectives or seek alternative sources of growth. RISKS RELATED TO FOREIGN OPERATIONSOur sales to foreign customers expose us to risks associated with operating internationally. Sales of products and services to end users outside the United States accounted for approximately 12.0% of our consolidated revenue in 2021 and 17.0% ofconsolidated revenue in 2020. Consequently, our businesses are subject to a variety of risks that are specific to international operations, including thefollowing: •export laws and regulations that could erode our profit margins or restrict the export of some or all of our products;•compliance with the U.S. Foreign Corrupt Practices Act and similar non-U.S. regulations;•the burden and cost of compliance with foreign laws, treaties and technical standards generally, as well as responding to changes in thoserequirements;•contract award and funding delays;•potential restrictions on transfers of funds;•potential difficulties in accounts receivable collection;20Table of Contents•currency fluctuations, including costs and potentially limited availability of viable hedging options;•import and export duties and value added or other taxes;•transportation and communication delays and interruptions;•differences in insurance availability and coverage in some jurisdictions;•difficulties involving strategic alliances and managing foreign sales agents or representatives;•uncertainties arising from foreign local business practices and cultural considerations; and•potential military conflicts and political risks, including particularly the current conflict between Russia and Ukraine•potential disruption of our international business due to the worldwide COVID-19 virus outbreak. In December 2019, an outbreak of the COVID-19 virus was reported in Wuhan, China. On March 11, 2020, the World Health Organization declared theCOVID-19 virus a global pandemic. This highly contagious disease has spread to most of the countries in the world and throughout the United States, creatinga serious impact on customers, workforces and suppliers, disrupting economies and financial markets, and potentially leading to a world-wide economicdownturn. It has caused a disruption of the normal operations of many businesses, including the temporary closure or scale-back of business operations and/orthe imposition of either quarantine or remote work or meeting requirements for employees, either by government order or on a voluntary basis. The pandemicmay adversely affect our international customers’ operations, our employees and our employee productivity. It may also impact the ability of oursubcontractors, partners, and suppliers to operate and fulfill their contractual obligations, and result in an increase in costs, delays or disruptions inperformance. These supply chain effects, and the direct effect of the virus and the disruption on our employees and operations, may negatively impact both ourability to meet customer demand and our revenue and profit margins. In late February 2022, following rising tensions between the regions, Russian military forces launched significant military action against Ukraine, andsustained tension, conflict, and disruption in the region is expected. We do not have employees or operations in Russia or Ukraine, but we do have customers who do business in these countries or surrounding countries. Suchoperations and customers may be adversely affected by the continued conflict and any related disruptions, sanctions or other governmental actions. While we have and will continue to adopt measures to reduce the potential impact of losses resulting from the risks of our foreign business, we cannot ensurethat such measures will be adequate. During the years ended December 31, 2021 and 2020, we did not have revenues greater than 10% from any individualforeign country. Exports and sales to certain foreign countries, including the People’s Republic of China, are subject to regulatory, political, and other risks. The export and sale of our services and technology to certain foreign countries including China, are subject to U.S. export control regulations. Export controlpolicy pertaining to China and other countries may be enforced through laws and regulations administered by the Department of Commerce and theDepartment of Energy, and jurisdiction with regard to the export and sale of our services and technology may be overlapping and unclear. Specificgovernmental authorizations may be required before we can export our services or technology to countries such as China or collaborate with foreign entities orforeign individuals located in countries such as China. These restrictions include our own wholly-owned Chinese subsidiary and its employees. If export orother authorizations are required and not granted, or are significantly delayed, our international business plans pertaining to China and other countries could bematerially affected. Further, our exports and sales to China and other countries with respect to which the United States may have shifting or negativediplomatic and trade relations, including sales made by or through our wholly-owned Chinese subsidiary, expose us to particular risks associated with thepolitical and regulatory relationship between the U.S. and China and between the U.S. and such other countries. In October 2018, DOE announced the tightening of certain export control restrictions with regard to the export of nuclear technology to China, includingcertain presumptive denials with regard to the export of identified nuclear technologies to China. Although we do not believe that these policy changes coverour technologies or services, additional restrictions pertaining to U.S. regulation and policy pertaining to international trade with China could adversely affectour business in China and the performance of our Chinese subsidiary. 21Table of ContentsFinally, violation of export control regulations, including those pertaining to China, could subject us to fines and other penalties, such as losing the ability toexport for a period of years, which would limit our revenue growth opportunities and significantly hinder our attempts to expand our business internationally.Although we take steps to monitor and ensure our compliance with all applicable export laws and regulations, we are nevertheless exposed to political andregulatory risks that we may not be able to mitigate fully and that may have a material adverse effect upon our international business operations. Our operations within China subject us to risks and uncertainties relating to the laws and regulations of China. Our business and operations within China may be adversely affected by China’s continuously evolving internal policies, laws and regulations, including thoserelating to nuclear technology, trade, taxation, import and export tariffs or restrictions, currency controls, cybersecurity and data protection, indigenousinnovation and the promotion of a domestic nuclear industry, and intellectual property rights and enforcement and protection of those rights. Enforcement ofexisting laws or agreements in China may be inconsistent. In addition, changes in the political environment, governmental policies, international trade policiesand relations, or U.S. - China relations could result in revisions to laws or regulations or their interpretation and enforcement, exposure of our proprietaryintellectual property to risk of loss, increased taxation, trade sanctions, the imposition of import duties or tariffs, restrictions on imports or exports, currencyrevaluations, or retaliatory actions by the Chinese government in response to U.S. actions, any or all of which could have an adverse effect on our businessplans and operating results. RISKS RELATED TO OUR FINANCIAL CONDITIONS, ACCOUNTING, AND CONTRACTS If we cannot comply with the financial or other restrictive covenants in our credit agreement, or obtain waivers or other relief from our lender, wemay cause an event of default to occur, which could result in loss of our sources of liquidity and acceleration of our debt. In order to fund general working capital needs, repayment of indebtedness, and other corporate purposes, we entered into a Securities Purchase Agreement withLind Global Fund II LP (“Lind Global”) in March 22, 2022. Pursuant to which we issued to Lind Global a two-year, secured, interest-free convertiblepromissory note in the amount of $5.75 million (the “Convertible Note”) and a common stock purchase warrant to acquire 1,283,732 shares of our commonstock (the “Warrant”). The Convertible Note will reach maturity in February of 2024, although we are permitted to prepay the Convertible Note, subject tocertain restrictions. We may not be able to refinance or restructure this Convertible Note or any other debt, sell assets or raise equity, in each case oncommercially reasonable terms or at all, which could cause us to default on our obligations and impair our liquidity. Our inability to generate sufficient cashflow to satisfy repayment obligations or to refinance or restructure these obligations on commercially reasonable terms could have a material adverse effect onour business, financial condition, results of operations and cash flows. Upon the occurrence of an event of default under the Convertible Note, or another creditarrangement, our lenders could elect to declare all amounts outstanding thereunder to be immediately due and payable. If we were unable to repay alloutstanding amounts in full, our lenders could exercise various remedies including instituting foreclosure proceedings against our assets pledged to them ascollateral to secure that debt. 22Table of ContentsOur PPP Loan eligibility and forgiveness remains subject to audit for compliance with applicable SBA Requirements.As a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, we sought and obtained support through various business assistance programs. We applied for and, on April 23, 2020,received a payroll protection program loan in the amount of $10.0 million (the “PPP Loan”) under the Coronavirus Aid, Relief and Economic Security Act (the“CARES Act”), as administered by the Small Business Administration (the “SBA”). The application for receipt of the PPP Loan required us to certify, in goodfaith, that the attendant economic uncertainty made the loan necessary to support our ongoing operations. The PPP Loan was serviced by Citizens Bank, N.A.(the “Lender”). We used the proceeds of the PPP Loan for payroll and related costs, rent and utilities. Pursuant to the regulations promulgated by the SBA, inorder to request forgiveness of the PPP Loan, we were required to submit an application to the Lender substantiating that we were entitled to the PPP Loan andused the proceeds of the PPP Loan as permitted under the CARES Act. The Lender reviewed our application for forgiveness and associated documentation, andon February 26, 2021 forwarded our application to the SBA with the Lender’s determination that the loan is fully forgivable. On August 5, 2021, we receivednotice that full principal amount and all accrued interest thereon of the PPP Loan was formally forgiven by the SBA. Under the terms of the PPP Loan, we mustretain all records relating to our PPP Loan for a period of six years from the date the loan was forgiven. During this period, our PPP Loan eligibility and loanforgiveness application are subject to review and audit by the SBA. We are aware of the requirements of the PPP Loan and believe we are within the eligibilitythreshold and have used the loan proceeds in accordance with the PPP Loan forgiveness requirements. We have retailed all necessary documentation supportingour eligibility. If, despite our actions and good faith belief that we satisfied all eligibility requirements for the PPP Loan, we are made subject to an audit andare found to have been ineligible to receive the PPP Loan or forgiveness thereof, or are found in violation of any of the laws or regulations that apply to us inconnection with the PPP Loan, we may be subject to penalties, including significant civil, criminal, and administrative penalties and could be required to repaythe PPP Loan. An audit by the SBA could consume significant financial and management resources. Any of these events could harm our business, results ofoperations and financial conditions. Employee retention tax credits, made available under the CARES Act, allow eligible employers to claim a refundable taxcredit against the employer share of Social Security tax equal to 70% of the qualified wages they pay to employees. The ERC Credits are subject toconfirmation that we were eligible to receive the credits and the CARES Act could be subject to further modification or revised interpretation.Our revenue, results of operations, and cash flows may suffer upon the loss of a significant customer. For the years ended December 31, 2021 and 2020, four customers have provided more than 10% of Workforce Solutions segment's revenues: Years ended December 31, 2021 2020 Customer A 28% 0%Customer B 19% 15%Customer C 13% 12%Customer D 10% 11%Hyperspring and Absolute, which together comprise our Workforce Solutions segment, may lose a significant customer if any existing contract with suchcustomer expires without extension, renewal, or negotiation or if it is terminated by the customer prior to expiration, to the extent such early termination ispermitted by the contract. A number of Hyperspring's and Absolute’s contracts typically are subject to expiration during each year, and either company maylose any of these contracts if we are unable to extend, renew, or renegotiate the contracts. The loss of any significant customer would adversely affect ourWorkforce Solutions segment’s revenue, results of operations, and cash flows. For the years ended December 31, 2021 and 2020, two and one customers have provided more than 10% of Performance Improvement Solutions segment'srevenues, respectively: Years ended December 31, 2021 2020 Customer E 14% 6%Customer F 12% 11%Customer A also provided 13.8% of our total consolidated revenue for the years ended December 31, 2021, While the acquisition of DP Engineering increasedour product and service offerings, we anticipate that it will further increase our customer concentration in our Performance Improvement Solutions segment. Absolute, True North, and DP Engineering, which together comprise our Performance Improvement Solutions segment, may lose a significant customer if anyexisting contract with such customer expires without extension, renewal, or negotiation or if it is terminated by the customer prior to expiration, to the extentsuch early termination is permitted by the contract. A majority of the contracts entered into by our Performance Improvement Solutions businesses are able tobe terminated by our customer on relatively short notice without cause or further compensation. The loss of any significant customer would adversely affectour Performance Improvement Solutions segment’s revenue, results of operations, and cash flows. 23Table of ContentsOur expense levels are based upon our expectations as to future revenue, and we may be unable to adjust spending to compensate for a revenueshortfall. Accordingly, any revenue shortfall would likely have a disproportionate effect on our operating results.Our revenue was $55.2 million and $57.6 million for the years ended December 31, 2021 and 2020, respectively. We had operating loss of $6.0 million and$9.5 million for the years ended December 31, 2021 and 2020, respectively. Our operating results have fluctuated in the past and may fluctuate significantly inthe future as a result of a variety of factors, including purchasing patterns, timing of launch or release of new products and enhancements by us and ourcompetitors, and fluctuating global economic conditions. Because our expense levels are based in part on our expectations as to future revenue and includescertain fixed, pre-negotiated, and prepaid costs, we may be unable to adjust spending in a timely manner to compensate for any revenue shortfall. Because ofthis lag in response time, such revenue shortfalls likely would have a disproportionate adverse effect on our operating results. A sustained decline in the price of our common stock or weaker than forecasted operating results could result in write-downs of goodwill and otherintangible assets and capitalized software development costs. In conjunction with business acquisitions, we record goodwill and other intangible assets and review their fair value for impairment annually as of December31, or on an interim basis if impairment indicators are present, such as a significant reduction in our market capitalization, significant declines in operatingperformance or disruptions to the business that could reduce our future cash flow. We used a discounted cash flow analysis to test for impairment andconcluded that the carrying value of the definite-lived intangible assets of DP Engineering exceeded its fair value by $4.3 million, and we recorded animpairment for this amount as of the three months ended March 31, 2020. We can provide no assurance that we will not have an impairment charge in futureperiods as the result of changing conditions. See Note 7 to our consolidated financial statements for information regarding our goodwill.We capitalize certain computer software development costs and, accordingly, the capitalized costs are reported on our balance sheet. Capitalization of computersoftware development costs begins upon the establishment of technological feasibility. Capitalization ceases and amortization of capitalized costs begins whenthe software product is commercially available for general release to customers. Amortization of capitalized computer software development costs is includedin cost of revenue and is determined using the straight-line method over the remaining estimated economic life of the product, typically three years. On anannual basis, and more frequently as conditions indicate, we assess the status of our development programs and the recoverability of the unamortized softwaredevelopment costs by estimating the net undiscounted cash flows expected to be generated by the sale of the product. If the undiscounted cash flows are notsufficient to recover the unamortized software costs, we will write-down these costs to their estimated fair value based on the future undiscounted cash flows.The excess of any unamortized computer software costs over the related net realizable value is written down and charged to operations. Write-down of goodwill and capitalized software development costs in the current and future accounting periods may have an impact on our value, results ofoperations, and price of our common stock. We are currently a party to multiple fixed price contracts and will continue to enter into similar contracts in the future. If we are not able to estimateaccurately or control costs on such projects, the profitability of such projects could be reduced. A significant portion of our revenue is attributable to contracts entered into on a fixed price basis, which enable us to benefit from cost savings, but expose us tothe risk of cost overruns. If our initial estimates are incorrect regarding our costs of performance under these contracts, or if unanticipated circumstances arise,we could experience cost overruns that could result in reduced profits or even net losses on these contracts. Our financial condition is dependent upon ourability to maximize our earnings from our contracts. Lower earnings or losses caused by cost overruns could have a negative impact on our financial results. Under our time and materials contracts, we are paid for labor at negotiated hourly billing rates and for certain expenses. Under cost-reimbursable contracts,which are subject to a contract ceiling amount, we are reimbursed for allowable costs and are paid a fee, which may be fixed, or performance based. In bothcases, however, if our costs exceed the contract ceiling or are not allowable under the provisions of the contract or applicable regulations, we may not be ableto obtain reimbursement for all such costs even under a time and materials or cost-reimbursable contract. Our inability to successfully estimate and manage costs on each of these contract types may materially and adversely affect our financial condition. 24Table of ContentsWe use derivative instruments in the normal course of our business which could result in financial losses and exposure to other risks that negativelyimpact our net income (loss) and business operational efficiency. While we had no foreign exchange contracts outstanding as of December 31, 2021, we periodically enter into forward foreign exchange contracts to managemarket risks associated with the fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates on foreign-denominated trade receivables. We could recognize financial lossesas a result of volatility in the market values of these contracts or if a derivative instrument counterparty fails to perform. We attempt to minimize creditexposure by limiting counterparties to internationally recognized financial institutions, but even these counterparties are subject to default and contract risk andthis risk is beyond our control. We also engage in interest rate hedging transactions in the ordinary courses of our business to mitigate the risk that amountsborrowed under our credit facility at floating interest rates may be affected by adverse rate movements. Depending on future business, market, and interest rateenvironments, however, these hedging transactions may not be effective to mitigate the financial impact of the risks for which they were put into placesufficiently to justify their expense. Additionally, we may need or wish to avail ourselves of other forms of hedging or derivative instruments in the futuredepending on our business needs, and these other types of derivative instruments may be subject to the same and other risks and may not be available to us on acost-effective or risk-controlled basis, if at all. The unavailability of viable and cost effective risk management, hedging, or similar instruments now or in thefuture could adversely impact our business operational efficiency or results. We issue letters of credit, performance, advance payment, and bid bonds in the normal course of our business which could result in financial lossesthat negatively impact our net income (loss). We may be required to issue letters of credit, performance, advance payment, and bid bonds to our customers and potential customers as a normal part of ourbusiness activities. Our customers may have the ability to draw upon these performance bonds in the event we fail to cure a material breach of the contractwithin a specified period after receiving notice from the customer regarding the nature of the breach. For the year ended December 31, 2021, we did not issueany advance payment or performance bonds, but we may be required to do so in the future to secure contract awards. As of December 31, 2021, we had fourletters of credit outstanding for customers in the respective amounts of $513,300, $359,674, $118,800, and $60,000 for an aggregate outstanding amount of$1,051,774. Our ability to use our net operating loss (NOL) carryforward and certain other tax attributes may be limited. Under Section 382 of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended, if a corporation undergoes an “ownership change,” generally defined as a greater than50% change (by value) in its equity ownership over a three-year period, the corporation’s ability to use its pre-change NOL carryforwards, and other pre-change tax attributes (such as research tax credits) to offset its post-change income or tax liabilities may be limited. We may experience ownership changes inthe future as a result of shifts in our stock ownership. As a result, if we earn net taxable income, our ability to use our pre-change NOL carryforwards to offsetU.S. federal taxable income may be subject to limitations, which could potentially result in increased future tax liability to us. RISKS RELATED TO INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY We rely upon our intellectual property rights for the success of our business, but the steps we have taken to protect our intellectual property may beinadequate. Although we believe that factors such as the technological and creative skills of our personnel, new product developments, frequent product enhancements andreliable product maintenance are important to establishing and maintaining a technological leadership position, our business depends, in part, on the strength ofour intellectual property rights in our proprietary technology and information. We rely upon a combination of trade secret, copyright, and trademark law,contractual arrangements and technical means to protect our intellectual property rights. We enter into confidentiality agreements with our employees,consultants, joint venture and alliance partners, customers, and other third parties that are granted access to our proprietary information, and we limit access toand distribution of our proprietary information. There can be no assurance, however, that we have protected or will be able to protect our proprietarytechnology and information adequately, that the unauthorized disclosure or use of our proprietary information will be prevented, that others have not or will notdevelop similar technology or information independently, or, to the extent we own any patents in the future, that others have not or will not be able to designaround those future patents. Furthermore, the laws of certain countries in which our products are sold do not protect our products and intellectual propertyrights to the same extent as the laws of the United States. Our inability to protect our intellectual property rights from infringement, dilution, or loss could makeit more difficult for us to generate revenue from the offer, licensure, and sale of our products and services and could enable third parties to compete with usmore effectively. 25Table of ContentsThird-party claims that we allegedly infringe the intellectual property rights of others may be costly to defend or settle and could damage ourbusiness. We cannot be certain that our software and services do not infringe issued patents, copyrights, trademarks or other intellectual property rights of third parties.We may be subject to legal proceedings and claims from time to time, including claims of alleged infringement of intellectual property rights of third parties byus or our licensees concerning their use of our software products and integration technologies and services. Third parties may bring claims of infringementdirectly against us, or because our software is integrated with our customers’ networks and business processes, as well as other software applications against us,our customers, and our business partners or software suppliers, if the cause of the alleged infringement cannot easily be determined. Claims of alleged infringement may have a material adverse effect on our business and may discourage potential customers from doing business with us onacceptable terms, if at all, even if the claims are ultimately adjudicated to have no merit, dismissed, or settled. Defending against claims of infringement may betime-consuming and may result in substantial costs and diversion of resources, including our management’s attention to our business. Furthermore, a partymaking an infringement claim could secure a judgment that requires us to pay substantial damages. A judgment could also include an injunction or other courtorder that could prevent us from selling our software or require that we re-engineer some or all of our products or modules. Claims of intellectual propertyinfringement also might require us to enter costly royalty or license agreements. We may be unable to obtain royalty or license agreements on terms acceptableto us or at all. Our business, operating results and financial condition could be harmed significantly if any of these events were to occur, and the price of ourcommon stock could be adversely affected. In addition, we have agreed, and may agree in the future, to indemnify certain of our customers against claims thatour software infringes upon the intellectual property rights of others. Although we carry general liability insurance, our current insurance coverage may notapply to, and likely would not protect us entirely or at all from, liability that may be imposed under any of the types of claims described above. RISKS RELATED TO CYBER SECURITY Cyber security incidents could disrupt business operations, result in the loss of critical and confidential information, and adversely impact ourreputation and results of operations. Global cyber security threats can range from uncoordinated individual attempts to gain unauthorized access to our information technology (IT) systems tosophisticated and targeted measures known as advanced persistent threats. While we employ comprehensive measures to prevent, detect, address and mitigatethese threats (including access controls, data encryption, vulnerability assessments, continuous monitoring of our IT networks and systems, and maintenance ofbackup and protective systems), cyber security incidents, depending on their nature and scope, could potentially result in the misappropriation, destruction,corruption or unavailability of critical data and confidential or proprietary information (our own or that of third parties) and the disruption of businessoperations. The potential consequences of a material cyber security incident include reputational damage, litigation with third parties, civil or regulatoryliability for loss of sensitive or protected information such as personal data, incident response costs, diminution in the value of our investment in research,development and engineering, loss of intellectual property, and increased cyber security protection and remediation costs, which in turn could adversely affectour competitiveness and results of operations. RISKS RELATED TO ATTRACTING AND RETAINING TALENT We are dependent on our management team, and the loss of or the inability to attract and retain one or more key employees or groups could harm ourbusiness and prevent us from implementing our business plan in a timely manner. 26Table of ContentsOur future success is substantially dependent on the continued services and continuing contributions of our executive officers and other key personnel. All ofour recently acquired businesses, including Hyperspring, Absolute, True North, and DP Engineering, are particularly dependent on key personnel and their keystrategic relationships. The loss of the services of any of our executive officers or other key personnel could harm our business. Our future success also dependson our ability to continue to attract, retain, and motivate highly skilled employees. If we are not able to attract and retain key skilled personnel, our businesscould be harmed and our revenue, profitability, and overall results of operations could be materially impacted. A failure to attract and retain technical personnel could reduce our revenue and our operational effectiveness. There is a continuing demand for qualified technical personnel in the industries within which we operate. We believe that our future growth and success willdepend upon our ability to attract, train and retain such personnel. Our design and development efforts, particularly within our Performance ImprovementSolutions business segment, depend on hiring and retaining qualified technical personnel. An inability to attract or maintain a sufficient number of technicalpersonnel could have a material adverse effect on our contract performance or on our ability to capitalize on market opportunities. RISKS RELATED TO STATE LAW Provisions in our corporate documents and Delaware law could delay or prevent a change in control of our Company, even if that change may beconsidered beneficial by some shareholders. The existence of some provisions of our certificate of incorporation and bylaws and Delaware law could discourage, delay or prevent a change in control of ourCompany that a shareholder may consider favorable. These include provisions: •providing that our Board of Directors fixes the number of members of the board and fills all vacancies on the Board of Directors;•providing for the division of our Board of Directors into three classes with staggered terms;•limiting who may call special meetings of shareholders;•prohibiting shareholder action by written consent, thereby requiring shareholder action to be taken at a meeting of the shareholders;•establishing advance notice requirements for nominations of candidates for election to our Board of Directors or for proposing matters that can beacted on by shareholders at shareholder meetings;•establishing supermajority vote requirements for certain amendments to our certificate of incorporation and bylaws;•limiting the right of shareholders to remove directors; and•authorizing the issuance of “blank check” preferred stock, which could be issued by our Board of Directors to increase the number of outstandingshares and thwart a takeover attempt.In addition, we are subject to Section 203 of the Delaware General Corporation Law, which may have an anti-takeover effect with respect to transactions notapproved in advance by our Board of Directors, including discouraging takeover attempts that might result in a premium over the market price for shares of ourcommon stock. We believe these provisions protect our shareholders from coercive or otherwise unfair takeover tactics by requiring potential acquirers to negotiate with ourBoard of Directors and by providing our Board of Directors with more time to assess any acquisition proposal and are not intended to make our Companyimmune from takeovers. These provisions apply even if the offer may be considered beneficial by some shareholders, however, and could delay or prevent anacquisition that our Board of Directors determines is not in the best interests of our Company and our shareholders. ITEM 1B.UNRESOLVED STAFF COMMENTS. None.ITEM 2.PROPERTIES. 27Table of ContentsWe are headquartered in Columbia, Maryland. On November 28, 2017, we entered into an office lease agreement to sublease 5,039 rentable square feet of anoffice building located in Columbia, Maryland. The lease is for an initial six years and six months with two renewal periods of five years each. The office inColumbia, Maryland, now serves as our executive office location. We lease a facility in Sykesville, Maryland (37,000 square feet). The lease for this facility expires on June 30, 2023. As of December 31, 2021, we subleasedapproximately 4,500 square feet of the facility with a sublease term ending June 30, 2023. In addition, we lease office space domestically in Huntsville, Alabama; Montrose, Colorado; Fort Worth, Texas, and internationally in Beijing, China. Ourleases for these facilities have terms ending between 2022 and 2026. See Note 6 and 18 to our consolidated financial statements for information regarding ourrestructuring activity and leases ITEM 3.LEGAL PROCEEDINGS. We are, from time to time, involved in ordinary routine litigation incidental to the conduct of our business. Neither we nor any of our subsidiaries are a party to,nor is any of our property the subject of, any material pending legal proceedings that, in the opinion of our management, are likely to have a material adverseeffect on our business, financial condition or results of operations. ITEM 4.MINE SAFETY DISCLOSURES. Not applicable. 28Table of ContentsPART IIITEM 5.MARKET FOR REGISTRANT’S COMMON EQUITY, RELATED SHAREHOLDER MATTERS, AND ISSUER PURCHASES OFEQUITY SECURITIES. Our common stock is listed on the NASDAQ Stock Market Exchange, where it trades under the symbol “GVP”. The following table sets forth, for the periodsindicated, the high and low sale prices of our common stock, as reported by the NASDAQ Stock Market Exchange for each full quarterly period within the twomost recent fiscal years:2021 Quarter High Low First $2.68 $1.30 Second $1.92 $1.24 Third $1.70 $1.14 Fourth $1.73 $1.27 2020 Quarter High Low First $1.84 $0.88 Second $1.18 $0.91 Third $1.08 $0.90 Fourth $1.46 $0.98 On February 28, 2022, there were 20,980,811 shares of our common stock outstanding. As of the latest record date, we had 725 holders of record. This numberdoes not include beneficial owners of our common stock whose shares are held in the names of various dealers, clearing agencies, banks, brokers and otherfiduciaries.ITEM 6.SELECTED FINANCIAL DATA. This information is not required for smaller reporting companies.29Table of ContentsITEM 7.MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS. We are a leading provider of professional and technical engineering, staffing services and simulation software to clients in the power and process industries. Weprovide customers with simulation, engineering and plant services that help clients reduce risks associated with operating their plants, increase revenue throughimproved plant and employee performance, and lower costs through improved operational efficiency. In addition, we provide professional services that helpclients fill key vacancies in their respective organizations, primarily in procedures, engineering, technical support and training focused on regulatorycompliance and certification in the nuclear power industry. Our operations also include interactive computer-based tutorials and simulation software for therefining, chemical, and petrochemical industries.Early in 2020 as the COVID-19 pandemic unfolded, the end markets that we serve, namely the power industries, delayed certain essential services anddramatically cut back on non-essential services. Although these delays and reductions impacted us, as an essential services provider to an essential industrialbase, we benefited from maintaining a baseline of business to continue and align itself to the realities of the pandemic. Additionally, staffing shortages haveresulted in new opportunities for our Workforce Solutions segment. In 2021, the effects of the pandemic still impacted the end markets we serve, but thoseeffects have been mitigated by a number of factors, including the following: the pandemic largely has had a targeted effect on the population; a number ofvaccines in the market being distributed and, despite logistical challenges, making substantial progress for those in most need; the economy of the UnitedStates has not had as much disruption as was initially feared, which has benefited our end markets; and most importantly our end markets seem poised tocontract with us for essential services that had been delayed as a result of the pandemic. As we end 2021 and begin 2022, we have had a number of significantcontract wins that have been publicly announced, which we hope will be a harbinger of a more attractive business environment for the power industries weserve.As a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, we have sought and obtained support through various business assistance programs. We applied for and, on April 23,2020, received the PPP Loan under the CARES Act, as administered by the SBA. The application for receipt of the PPP Loan required us to certify, in goodfaith, that the attendant economic uncertainty made the loan necessary to support our ongoing operations. The PPP Loan bore interest at a rate of 1% per annumand would mature on April 23, 2022, with the first payment deferred until September 2021. We used the proceeds of the PPP Loan for payroll and related costs,rent and utilities. Pursuant to the regulations promulgated by the SBA, in order to request forgiveness of the PPP Loan, we were required to submit anapplication to the Lender substantiating that we were entitled to the PPP Loan and used the proceeds of the PPP Loan as permitted under the CARES Act. TheLender reviewed our application for forgiveness and associated documentation, and on February 26, 2021 forwarded our application to the SBA with theLender’s determination that the loan is fully forgivable. On August 5, 2021, we received notice that full principal amount and all accrued interest thereon of thePPP Loan was formally forgiven by the SBA.During the second quarter of 2021, we performed analysis to determine our first quarter 2021 eligibility for the Employee Retention Credit available under theCARES Act . We amended certain payroll tax filings and applied for a refund of $2.4 million dollars in April 2021. For the second quarter of 2021, we haveapplied for a refund of $1.8 million dollars from the IRS with the timely filing of Form 941 and have already recognized a benefit of $900,000 in value fromunremitted payroll taxes as allowable. For the third quarter of 2021, we have applied for a refund of $1.0 million from the IRS with the timely filing of Form941 and have recognized a benefit of $1.4 million in value from unremitted payroll taxes as allowable. Subsequent to the year end, we received refunds of $1.1million, which was included in the other current assets balance at December 31, 2021.We entered into a contract with a subcontractor to purchase large equipment from Siemens in order to build a simulator for project Slovenske ElektrarneMochovce Full Scope Simulator Upgrade in December 2018. The total contract price was about $2.7 million and included VAT taxes of approximately$450,000. We paid the VAT taxes and had pursued the collection of this VAT refund for a couple of years. In May 2021, we were informed that this VAT refundwas no longer collectable. As a result, we wrote off this VAT receivable during 2021.30Table of ContentsOn September 9, 2021, President Biden released the COVID-19 Action Plan, Path Out of the Pandemic (the “Plan”), with the stated goal of getting morepeople vaccinated. As part of the Plan, Executive Order 14042, Ensuring Adequate COVID Safety Protocols for Federal Contractors (the “Order”), creates theSafer Federal Workforce Task Force (the “Task Force”), which released guidance for U.S. Government contractors and their subcontractors. This guidanceincluded mandatory vaccination of all employees working on or for a government contract, either directly or indirectly, by January 4, 2022 (subject to medicaland religious exemptions). As a part of the Plan and Order, President Biden also directed, the Department of Labor’s Occupational Safety and HealthAdministration (“OSHA”) to issue an Emergency Temporary Standard (“ETS”) requiring that all employers with at least 100 employees ensure that their U.S.-based employees are fully vaccinated for COVID-19 or obtain a negative COVID-19 test at least once a week. On November 4, 2021, OSHA issued this ETS,however the implementation of the ETS was blocked by federal appeals courts, pending resolution of ongoing litigation challenging the constitutionality of theETS, and the ETS was withdrawn by OSHA on January 25, 2022. OSHA, however has not withdrawn the proposed rule that would effectuate the samemandate, and it cannot be known whether OSHA may reissue the ETS or otherwise issue new emergency temporary standards imposing similar mandates. Wehave already received notice by both government customers and prime contractors serving government customers regarding the vaccination requirement and itsapplication to our business with those customers. As an employer of more than 100 employees, we would also be subject to the ETS or a similar mandateshould it become effective. It is possible that additional jurisdictions where we do business may impose similar mandates that would apply to our employees. In addition, certain of our customers may require vaccines for those of our employees who provide on-site service at their facilities. We will continue tomonitor the status of these or other mandates or regulations and their application to us and our business.31Table of ContentsResults of Operations. The following table sets forth the results of operations for the periods presented expressed as a percentage of revenue. ($ in thousands) Years ended December 31, 2021 % 2020 % Revenue $55,183 100.0% $57,620 100.0%Cost of revenue 43,325 78.5% 42,835 74.3% Gross profit 11,858 21.5% 14,785 25.7%Operating expenses Selling, general and administrative 14,908 27.0% 15,765 27.4%Research and development 626 1.1% 686 1.2%Restructuring charges 798 1.4% 1,297 2.3%Loss on impairment 3 - 4,302 7.5%Depreciation 284 0.5% 330 0.6%Amortization of definite-lived intangible assets 1,213 2.2% 1,943 3.4%Total operating expenses 17,832 32.3% 24,323 42.2% Operating loss (5,974) (10.8%) (9,538) (16.6%) Interest expense (159) (0.3%) (623) (1.1%)Gain (loss) on derivative instruments, net 19 0.0% (17) 0.0%Other income (expense), net 16,884 30.6% (4) 0.0% Income (loss) before taxes 10,770 19.5% (10,182) (17.7%)Provision for income taxes 163 0.3% 355 0.6% Net income (loss) $10,607 19.2% $(10,537) (18.3%)Comparison of the Years Ended December 31, 2021 to December 31, 2020. Revenue. Revenue for the year ended December 31, 2021, totaled $55.2 million, which was 4.2% less than the $57.6 million of revenue for the year endedDecember 31, 2020. (in thousands) Year ended December 31, 2021 2020 Change Revenue: $ % Performance Improvement Solutions $28,140 $32,790 (4,650) (14.2)%Workforce Solutions 27,043 24,830 2,213 8.9%Total revenue $55,183 $57,620 (2,437) (4.2)%Performance Improvement Solutions revenue decreased 14.2% from $32.8 million to $28.1 million for the years ended December 31, 2020 and 2021,respectively. The decrease of revenue was primarily due to several significant projects ending in the prior fiscal year. We recorded total PerformanceImprovement Solutions orders of $30.0 million and $26.2 million for the years ended December 31, 2021 and 2020, respectively.For the year ended December 31, 2021, Workforce Solutions revenue increased 8.9% to $27.0 million compared to revenue of $24.8 million for the year endedDecember 31, 2020. The increase in revenue was primarily due a significant new customer obtained in Q1 2021. We recorded total new orders of $26.5 millionand $19.1 million for the years ended December 31, 2021 and 2020, respectively.32Table of ContentsAs of December 31, 2021, our backlog was $41.3 million, $31.8 million was attributed to the Performance Improvement Solutions segment and $9.5 millionwas attributed to the Workforce Solutions segment. As of December 31, 2020, our backlog was $40.4 million with $30.3 million attributed to the PerformanceImprovement Solutions segment and $10.1 million attributed to the Workforce Solutions segment. The increase in our backlog over fiscal year 2020 wasprimarily due to higher orders in the Performance Improvement Solutions during fiscal year 2021.Gross profit. Gross profit was $11.9 million, or 21.5% of revenue, for the year ended December 31, 2021 compared to $14.8 million, or 25.7% of revenue, forthe year ended December 31, 2020. ($ in thousands) Years ended December 31, 2021 % 2020 % Gross profit: Performance Improvement Solutions $8,124 28.9% $11,395 34.8%Workforce Solutions 3,734 13.8% 3,390 13.7%Consolidated gross profit $11,858 21.5% $14,785 25.7%The Performance Improvement Solutions segment's gross profit decreased by $3.3 million during fiscal year 2021 over fiscal year 2020. The decrease isprimarily related to lower revenue and several significant projects completed in the prior year.The Workforce Solutions segment's gross profit increased by $0.3 million during fiscal year 2021 over fiscal year 2020. The increase in gross profit wasprimarily driven by an increase in revenue in the Workforce Solutions segment.Selling, general and administrative expenses. Selling, general and administrative (SG&A) expenses totaled $14.9 million and $15.8 million for the years endedDecember 31, 2021 and 2020, respectively. Fluctuations in the components of SG&A spending were as follows: ($ in thousands) Years ended December 31, 2021 % 2020 % Selling, general and administrative expenses: Corporate charges $10,305 69.1% $10,881 69.0%Business development 3,024 20.3% 3,364 21.3%Facility operation & maintenance (O&M) 872 5.8% 928 5.9%Provision for loss on legal settlement - 0.0% 477 3.0%Bad debt expense 691 4.6% 103 0.7%Other 16 0.1% 12 0.1%Total $14,908 100.0% $15,765 100.0%Corporate charges decreased $0.6 million in 2021 compared to 2020. The decrease was primarily due to a reduction of external legal, audit, and consultantsfees of $0.8 million. Additionally, the Company saw a reduction in realized foreign exchange rate loss of $0.3 million during the fiscal year 2021.Business development charges decreased $0.3 million in 2021 compared to 2020. The decrease was primarily due to lower headcount in 2021.Facility O&M expenses decreased $0.1 million for the year ended December 31, 2021 compared to the year ended December 31, 2020. The decrease during thefiscal year 2021 was mainly due to lease terminations in the first half of 2020. Provision for loss on legal settlement. On August 17, 2020, Absolute entered into a Settlement Agreement with the plaintiffs (Joyce), which resulted a finalsettlement cost, including plaintiff's attorney fees of approximately $1.4 million. On September 29, 2020, the Company received $952 thousand from a generalescrow account, originally set up as part of the Company's purchase of Absolute during fiscal 2017. The Company presented the loss on Joyce legal settlementand the benefit from the proceeds from the release of escrow from the Absolute transaction in selling, general and administrative expenses, in the amount of$477 thousand for the year ended December 31, 2020. There were no similar transactions during the same period of 2021.33Table of ContentsBad debt expense. We recorded bad debt expense of $691 thousand and $103 thousand for the years ended December 31, 2021 and December 31, 2020,respectively. GSE's bad debt allowance is based on historical trends of past due accounts, write-offs, and specific identification and review of customeraccounts. Included in the current year provision is an impairment of unbilled receivables of $824 thousand related to a customer contract with our GSE Beijingentity offset by $133 thousand recovery of bad debt from previously written off balances. As of December 31, 2021, management considered the following factors when assessing the unbilled receivable balance in question for impairment: the overallgeopolitical environment, the Company’s inability to travel to China to meet with the customer to resolve their concerns, and the restrictions on restarting theproject due to both regulatory constraints and our ability to meet future milestones. Based on these factors we determined that the unbilled was impaired and areserve for unbilled was recorded resulting in bad debt expense of $824 thousand. We will continue to pursue billing and collections of this balance. Research and development. Research and development costs consist primarily of software engineering personnel and other related costs. Research anddevelopment costs, net of capitalized software, totaled $0.6 million and $0.7 million for both the years ended December 31, 2021 and 2020, respectively. Restructuring charges. Restructuring charges totaled $0.8 million and $1.3 million for the years ended December 31, 2021 and 2020, respectively. OnDecember 27, 2017, the Board of GSE Systems, Inc. approved an international restructuring plan to streamline and optimize the Company’s global operations.Under this international restructuring plan, we have incurred cumulative restructuring charges of $3.9 million. The Company expects no future charges relatingto the international restructuring plan, excluding any tax impacts and cumulative translation adjustments from the final disposal of foreign entities.Additionally, during the third quarter of 2019, the Company implemented a restructuring plan as a result of the work suspension of DP Engineering’s largestcustomer and subsequent notification on August 6, 2019 that the EOC contract was being terminated. This plan was put in place to align the workforce with theexpected level of business moving forward. Under this restructuring plan, we have incurred total restructuring of $2.6 million. In the twelve months endingDecember 31, 2020, we recorded $1.0 million to international restructuring, and $0.2 million of related employee termination benefits. The decrease in our2021 restructuring plan charges was mainly due to final charges related to the liquidation of our Sweden operations during the period, pursuant to our foreignrestructuring plan.Loss on impairment of goodwill and definite-lived intangible assets. We recognized a $3 thousand ROU asset impairment during the fiscal year 2021. Werecognized a $4.3 million intangible asset impairment during the fiscal year 2020.Depreciation. Depreciation expense totaled $0.3 million and $0.3 million for the years ended December 31, 2021 and 2020, respectively. Amortization of definite-lived intangible assets. Amortization expense related to definite-lived intangible assets totaled $1.2 million and $1.9 million for theyears ended December 31, 2021 and 2020, respectively. The decrease in amortization expense was primarily due to the reduction in the carrying value of DPEngineering’s intangible assets, due to the $4.3 million impairment in Q1 2020. Additionally, certain intangible assets such as Customer Contracts &Relationships have larger amortization the earlier they are in their useful lives. Interest expense. Interest expense totaled $0.2 million and $0.6 million for the years ended December 31, 2021 and 2020. The decrease was due to a reductionin total indebtedness during the fiscal year 2021.Gain (loss) on derivative instruments, net. The Company periodically enters into forward foreign exchange contracts to manage market risks associated withthe fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates on foreign-denominated trade receivables. The Company had not designated the contracts as hedges andrecognized a loss on the change in the estimated fair value of the contracts of $17 thousand for the years ended December 31, 2020. We had no foreignexchange contracts outstanding as of December 31, 2021. The foreign currency denominated trade receivables, unbilled receivables, billings in excess of revenue earned and subcontractor accruals that are related to theoutstanding foreign exchange contracts are remeasured at the end of each period into the functional currency using the current exchange rate at the end of theperiod. The gain or loss resulting from such remeasurement is also included in gain (loss) on derivative instruments net in the consolidated statements ofoperations. For the years ended December 31, 2021 and 2020, the Company incurred a gain of $19 thousand and $15 thousand, respectively, related to theremeasurement of such assets and liabilities. Other income (expense), net. The Company recognized $16.9 million of other income, net and $(4) thousand of other expense, net for the years endedDecember 31, 2021 and 2020, respectively. The increase was primarily due to the recording of $10.1 million PPP loan forgiveness by SBA and $7.2 millionEmployee Retention Credit during the period, offset by VAT write-off of $0.5 million, We paid VAT taxes for a subcontractor equipment purchase and hadpursued the collection of this VAT refund for a couple of years. In May 2021, we were informed that this VAT refund was no longer collectable.34Table of ContentsProvision for Income Taxes. The Company files tax returns in the United States federal jurisdiction and in several state and foreign jurisdictions. Because of thenet operating loss carryforwards, the Company is subject to U.S. federal and state income tax examinations for tax years 2000, and forward, and is subject toforeign tax examinations by tax authorities for the years 2016 and forward. Open tax years related to state and foreign jurisdictions remain subject toexamination but are not considered material to our financial position, results of operations or cash flows. The Company’s tax expense in 2021 was $0.2 million, representing an annual effective tax rate of 1.5%, and consisted of $0.1 million of current tax provisionand $0.1 million of deferred tax liability related to the portion of goodwill which cannot be offset by deferred tax assets. The Company’s tax expense in 2020was $0.4 million, representing an annual effective rate of (3.5)% and consisted of $0.4 million of current tax provision. The significant change of $0.8 million in net operating loss carryforwards was primarily driven by the release of the U.S. uncertain tax position on the U.K.worthless stock deduction which originally offset the federal and state net operating losses.The difference between the effective rate and statutory rate primarily resulted from a change in valuation allowance, permanent differences, including PPP loanforgiveness and foreign restructuring, accruals related to uncertain tax positions, the tax impact of stock compensation forfeitures, foreign tax expense, andstate tax expense. Please see Note 15 for additional information.Coronavirus Aid, Relief and Economic Security Act On March 27, 2020, the United States enacted the Cares Act. The Cares Act is an emergency economic stimulus package that includes spending and tax breaksto strengthen the United States economy and fund a nationwide effort to curtail the effect of COVID-19. While the CARES Act provides sweeping tax changesin response to the COVID-19 pandemic, some of the more significant provisions which are expected to impact our consolidated financial statements includeremoval of certain limitations on utilization of net operating losses and increasing the ability to deduct interest expense, as well as amending certain provisionsof the previously enacted Tax Cuts and Jobs Act. On April 23, 2020, we received $10 million in funds under the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP), a part ofthe CARES Act. On August 5, 2021, the Company was notified that the Small Business Administration ("SBA") had forgiven the PPP loan including allaccrued interest thereon was forgiven. Employee retention tax credits, made available under the CARES Act, allow eligible employers to claim a refundable taxcredit against the employer share of Social Security tax equal to 70% of the qualified wages they pay to employees.Consolidated Appropriations ActOn December 27, 2020, the Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2021 (CAA) was signed into law. The CAA included additional funding through tax credits aspart of its economic package for 2021. We evaluated these items in our tax computation as of December 31, 2021 and determined that the items do not have amaterial benefit on our consolidated financial statements as of December 31, 2021.Critical Accounting Policies and EstimatesIn preparing our consolidated financial statements, management makes several estimates and assumptions that affect our reported amounts of assets, liabilities,revenues and expenses. Those accounting estimates that have the most significant impact on our operating results and place the most significant demands onmanagement’s judgment are discussed below. For all of these policies, management cautions that future events rarely develop exactly as forecasted, and thebest estimates may require adjustment. Revenue Recognition. We derive our revenue through three broad revenue streams: 1) System Design and Build (“SDB”), 2) software, and 3) training andconsulting services. We recognize revenue from SDB and software contracts mainly through the Performance Improvement Solutions segment and revenuefrom training and consulting services through both the Performance Improvement Solutions segment and Workforce Solutions segment. 35Table of ContentsThe SDB contracts are typically fixed-price and consist of initial design, engineering, assembly and installation of training simulators which include hardware,software, labor, and post contract support (“PCS”) on the software. We generally have two main performance obligations for an SDB contract: the trainingsimulator build and PCS period. The training simulator build performance obligation generally includes hardware, software, and labor. The transaction priceunder the SDB contracts is allocated to each performance obligation based on its standalone selling price. We recognize the training simulator build revenueover the construction and installation period using the cost-to-cost input method as our performance creates or enhances assets with no alternative use to us,and we have an enforceable right to payment for performance completed to date. Cost-to-cost input method best measures the progress toward completesatisfaction of the performance obligation. PCS revenue is recognized ratably over the service period, as PCS is deemed as a stand-ready obligation. In applying the cost-to-cost input method, we use the actual costs incurred to date relative to the total estimated costs to measure the work progress toward thecompletion of the performance obligation and recognize revenue accordingly. Estimated contract costs are reviewed and revised periodically as the workprogresses, and the cumulative effect of any change in estimates is recognized in the period in which the change is identified. Estimated losses are recognizedin the period such losses are identified. Uncertainties inherent in the performance of contracts include labor availability and productivity, material costs, changeorder scope and pricing, software modification and customer acceptance issues. The reliability of these cost estimates is critical to our revenue recognition as asignificant change in the estimates can cause the our revenue and related margins to change significantly from the amounts estimated in the early stages of theproject. The SDB contracts generally provide a one-year base warranty on the systems. The base warranty is not accounted for as a separate performance obligationunder the contract because it does not provide the customer with a service in addition to the assurance that the completed project complies with agreed-uponspecifications. Warranties extended beyond our typical one-year period, if any, are evaluated on a case by case basis to determine if it provides more than justassurance that the product operates as intended, which would require carve-out as a separate performance obligation. Revenue from the sale of perpetual standalone and term software licenses, which do not require significant modification or customization, is recognized uponits delivery to the customer. Revenue from the sale of cloud-based subscription-based software licenses is recognized ratably over the term of such licensesfollowing delivery to the customer. Delivery is considered to have occurred when the customer receives a copy of the software and is able to use and benefitfrom the software. A software license sale contract with multiple performance obligations typically includes the following elements: license, installation and training services andPCS. The total transaction price of a software license sale contract is typically fixed and is allocated to the identified performance obligations based on theirrelative standalone selling prices. Revenue is recognized as the performance obligations are satisfied. Specifically, license revenue is recognized when thesoftware license is delivered to the customer; installation and training revenue is recognized when the installation and training is completed without regard to adetailed evaluation of the point in time criteria due to the short-term nature of the installation and training services (one to two days on average); and PCSrevenue is recognized ratably over the service period, as PCS is deemed as a stand-ready obligation. The contracts within the training and consulting services revenue stream are either time and materials (“T&M”) based or fixed-price based. Under a typicalT&M contract, we are compensated based on the number of hours of approved time provided by workers and the bill rates which are fixed per type of work, aswell as approved expenses incurred. Our customers are billed on a regular basis, such as weekly, biweekly or monthly. In accordance with AccountingStandards Codification (“ASC”) 606-10-55-18, we elected to apply the “right to invoice” practical expedient, under which we recognize revenue in the amountto which we have the right to invoice. The invoice amount represents the number of hours of approved time worked by each worker multiplied by the bill ratefor the type of work, as well as approved expenses incurred. Under a typical fixed-price contract, we recognize the revenue on a percentage of completion basisas it relates to construction contracts with revenue recognized based on project delivery over time. Revenue from the sale of short-term contracts with adelivery period of one month or less is recognized in the month completed.For contracts with multiple performance obligations, we allocate the contract price to each performance obligation based on its relative standalone selling price.We generally determine standalone selling prices based on the prices charged to customers. 36Table of ContentsImpairment of Intangible Assets, including Goodwill. Our intangible assets impairment analysis includes the use of undiscounted cash flow and discounted cashflow models that require management to make assumptions regarding estimates of revenue growth rates and operating margins used to calculate projectedfuture cash flows, risk-adjusted discount rates and future economic factors that may impact each asset group. We review goodwill and intangible assets forimpairment annually as of December 31 and whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate the carrying value of an asset may not be recoverable. Wetest goodwill at the reporting unit level. A reporting unit is an operating segment, or one level below an operating segment, as defined by U.S. GAAP (See Note7). Accounting Standards Update (“ASU”) 2011-08, Intangibles — Goodwill and Other (Topic 350): Testing Goodwill for Impairment (“ASU 2011-08”). ASU2011-08 permits an entity to first assess qualitative factors to determine whether it is more likely than not that the fair value of a reporting unit is less than itscarrying amount as a basis for determining whether it is necessary to perform the two-step goodwill impairment test. An entity is not required to perform stepone of the goodwill impairment test for a reporting unit if it is more likely than not that its fair value is greater than its carrying amount (Step 0). If the Step 0test indicates the fair value of a reporting unit is less than its carrying value, then additional impairment testing is required in accordance with the provisions ofASC 350, Intangibles — Goodwill and Other. ASU 2017-04, Simplifying the Test for Goodwill Impairment (“ASU 2017-04”). ASU 2017-04 simplifies the accounting for goodwill impairment byeliminating Step 2 of the current goodwill impairment test, which required a hypothetical purchase price allocation. Goodwill impairment will now be theamount by which the reporting unit’s carrying value exceeds its fair value, limited to the carrying value of the goodwill.As of December 31, 2020, we performed a quantitative step 1 analysis and have concluded that the estimated fair values of each of our reporting units as ofDecember 31, 2020, is more likely than not, greater than their respective carrying values.Our goodwill impairment analysis includes the use of a discounted cash flow model that requires management to make assumptions regarding estimates ofgrowth rates used to forecast revenue, operating margin and terminal value as well as determining the appropriate risk-adjusted discount rates and other factorsthat impact fair value determinations. Determining the fair value of a reporting unit is judgmental in nature and involves the use of significant estimates andassumptions. These estimates and assumptions include revenue growth rates and operating margins used to calculate projected future cash flows, risk-adjusteddiscount rates, future economic and market conditions and determination of appropriate market comparable. We base our fair value estimates on assumptionswe believe to be reasonable but that are unpredictable and inherently uncertain. Actual future results may differ from those estimates. In addition, we makecertain judgments and assumptions in allocating shared assets and liabilities to determine the carrying values for each of our reporting units. The timing andfrequency of our goodwill impairment tests are based on an ongoing assessment of events and circumstances that would indicate a possible impairment. Wewill continue to monitor our goodwill and intangible assets for impairment and conduct formal tests when impairment indicators are present.Capitalization of Computer Software Development Costs. In accordance with U.S. GAAP, we capitalize computer software development costs incurred aftertechnological feasibility has been established, but prior to the release of the software product for sale to customers. Once the product is available to be sold, weamortize the costs, on a straight-line method, over the estimated useful life of the product, which is typically three years. As of December 31, 2021, we have netcapitalized software development costs of $0.5 million. On an annual basis, and more frequently as conditions indicate, we assess the recovery of theunamortized software development costs by estimating the net undiscounted cash flows expected to be generated by the sale of the product. If the undiscountedcash flows are not sufficient to recover the unamortized software costs, we will write-down the investment to its estimated fair value based on future discountedcash flows. The excess of any unamortized computer software costs over the related net realizable value is written down and charged to operations. Included incapitalized software development costs are certain expenses associated with the development software services. These are similarly capitalized, although notsubjected to the same recoverability considerations. Significant changes in the sales projections could result in an impairment with respect to the capitalizedsoftware that is reported on our consolidated balance sheets. Deferred Income Tax Valuation Allowance. Deferred income taxes arise from temporary differences between the tax basis of assets and liabilities and theirreported amounts in the consolidated financial statements. Management makes a regular assessment of the ability to realize our deferred tax assets. In makingthis assessment, management considers whether it is more likely than not that some or all of the deferred tax assets will not be realized. The ultimate realizationof deferred tax assets is dependent upon the generation of future taxable income during the periods in which those temporary differences become deductible.Management considers the scheduled reversal of our deferred tax liabilities and projected future taxable income in making this assessment. A valuationallowance is recorded to reduce the total deferred income tax asset to its realizable value. As of December 31, 2021, our largest deferred tax asset was $6.2million of net operating losses. It primarily relates to a U.S. net operating loss carryforward of $6.2 million; $4.5 million of the net operating loss carryforwardexpires in various amounts between 2023 and 2037; $1.7 million of the net operating loss carryforward is an indefinite-lived deferred tax asset. We do notbelieve that it is more likely than not that we will be able to realize our deferred tax assets for our U.S. and foreign deferred tax assets as of December 31, 2021,and therefore we have recorded a $9.4 million valuation allowance for our net deferred tax assets. The Company has a deferred tax liability in the amount of$0.1 million at December 31, 2021 related to the portion of goodwill which cannot be offset by deferred tax assets 37Table of ContentsLiquidity and Capital Resources. As of December 31, 2021, we had cash and cash equivalents of $3.6 million compared to $6.7 million at December 31, 2020. For the years ended December 31, 2021 and 2020, net cash used in operating activities was $0.2 million and provided by operating activities was $1.1 million,respectively. The year over year decrease in cash provided by operating activities was largely driven by: •A $6.2 million decrease in net inflows from changes in net working capital was primarily driven by increased collections due to large milestonepayments of large projects in the prior year. •A $2.1 million decrease in operating expenses (excluding non-cash operating expenses) mainly driven by a reduction of external legal and auditfees in 2021. •A $2.9 million decrease in gross profit, primarily driven by lower revenue due to COVID-19. Net cash used in investing activities. For the year ended December 31, 2021, net cash used in investing activities was $0.8 million compared to net cash of $0.3million used in investing activities in the prior year. The increase in cash outflow in 2021 was primarily related to the systems implementation, see note 10 forfurther details. Net cash used in financing activities. For the years ended December 31, 2021 and 2020, net cash used in financing activities totaled $2.2 million and $6.1million, respectively. The decrease in cash used in financing activities of $3.8 million was driven by a $2.0 million repayment of line of credit in 2021compared to a repayment on term loans of $18.5 million offset by proceeds of the PPP Loan of $10 million.Paycheck Protection Program Loan (“PPP Loan”)We applied for and, on April 23, 2020, received a payroll protection program loan in the amount of $10.0 million (the “PPP Loan”) under the CARES Act, asadministered by the SBA. The application for receipt of the PPP Loan required us to certify, in good faith, that the attendant economic uncertainty made theloan necessary to support our ongoing operations. The PPP Loan bore interest at a rate of 1% per annum and would mature on April 23, 2022, with the firstpayment deferred until September 2021. We used the proceeds of the PPP Loan for payroll and related costs, rent and utilities. Pursuant to the regulationspromulgated by the SBA, in order to request forgiveness of the PPP Loan, we were required to submit an application to the Lender substantiating that we wereentitled to the PPP Loan and used the proceeds of the PPP Loan as permitted under the CARES Act. The Lender reviewed our application for forgiveness andassociated documentation, and on February 26, 2021 forwarded our application to the SBA with the Lender’s determination that the loan is fully forgivable. OnAugust 5, 2021, we received notice that full principal amount and all accrued interest thereon of the PPP Loan was formally forgiven by the SBA.Credit FacilitiesOn December 29, 2016, we entered a 3-year $5.0 million revolving line of credit facility (“RLOC”) with the Citizens Bank, N.A. (the “Bank”) to fund generalworking capital needs and acquisitions. On May 11, 2018, we entered into the Amended and Restated Credit and Security Agreement (the “Credit Agreement”or the “Credit Facility”) to (a) expand the RLOC to include a letter of credit sub-facility and not be subject to a borrowing base and (b) to add a $25.0 millionterm loan facility, available to finance permitted acquisitions over the following 18 months. The credit facility was subject to certain financial covenants andreporting requirements and was scheduled to mature on May 11, 2023 and accrue interest at the USD LIBOR, plus a margin that varies depending on ouroverall leverage ratio. We subsequently amended and ratified the Credit Agreement a number of times, and as a part of the Eighth Amendment andReaffirmation Agreement, we repaid the entire outstanding balance on the term loan facility. Due to a projected violation of the leverage ratio at the end of thefirst quarter of 2021, we signed the Ninth Amendment and Reaffirmation Agreement with an effective date of March 29, 2021 (See FN 13).38Table of ContentsFollowing the Ninth Amendment, we experienced continued delays in commencing new projects and thus our ability to recognize revenue was delayed forsome contracts. Reductions in orders and other negative changes to orders experienced at the beginning of the pandemic started to reverse in 2021, but not atthe level expected as ongoing COVID concerns continue to hinder the pace of recovery. This deterioration in the recovery plan resulted in breaching theMinimum Liquidity ratio subsequent to both June 30, 2021 and at September 30, 2021 as well as projected breaching of the Leverage and Fixed Charges ratiocovenant. On November 12, 2021, due to these covenant violations, we signed the Tenth Amendment and Reaffirmation Agreement with an effective date ofNovember 12, 2021 to adjust the thresholds for future covenants to ease the risk of non-compliance. Per the Tenth Amendment, we received a waiver for thefixed charge coverage ratio and leverage ratio for the quarters ending September 30 and December 31, 2021, and we agreed, (i) interest on the outstandingprincipal amount of the RLOC shall accrue at the interest rate in effect for the RLOC from time to time, but the interest due and payable on the RLOC on eachInterest Payment Date shall be determined by subtracting seventy-five (75) basis points from the Applicable Margin and (ii) the seventy-five (75) basis pointsof accrued interest on the RLOC not paid on any Interest Payment Date pursuant to clause (i) above shall be due and payable on the Termination Date or thedate of payment in full of the RLOC. RLOC Amount” means (i) $3,500,000 (ii) on each date a payment in the amount of $250,000 is made pursuant toSubsection 2.1.5(d), the RLOC Amount immediately prior to such payment reduced by $250,000 and (iii) on March 31, 2022 and on each June 30, September30, December 31 and March 31 thereafter, the RLOC Amount immediately prior to each such date reduced by $37,500. In addition, we agreed, by December31, 2021, we will pay the Bank $250,000 to be applied to the principal amount outstanding under the RLOC. Commencing on March 31, 2022 and on eachJune 30, September 30, December 31 and March 31 thereafter, we will pay the Bank $75,000 to be applied to the principal amount outstanding under theRLOC. In addition, within the fifth (5th) Business Day after we have received, subsequent to November 1, 2021, Employee Retention Credits in an aggregateamount not less than $500,000, we will pay the Bank $250,000 to be applied to the principal amount outstanding under the RLOC. We are also required tomaintain a minimum of $2.25 million in aggregate USA liquidity. We incurred $15 thousand of amendment fee related to this amendment. During the year ended December 31, 2021, we repaid for $2 million and had a draw of $0.8 million on our RLOC. As of December 31, 2021, we hadoutstanding borrowings of $1.8 million under the RLOC and four letters of credit totaling $1.1 million outstanding to certain of our customers. The totalborrowing capacity under RLOC was $3.25 million as of December 31, 2021. After consideration of letters of credit and the $0.5 million reserved for issuanceof new letters of credit, there was no amount available for borrowing under the RLOC.Subsequent to the year ended December 31, 2021, the Company issued a Convertible Note (further described in Note 24 to Consolidated Financial Statements).The proceed received from this Note were used to repay in full, all outstanding indebtedness owed to Citizens, and the Amended and Restated Credit andSecurity Agreement between us, our subsidiaries, and Citizens has been terminated. We will continue to maintain a cash management account and certainletters of credit with Citizens and, accordingly, have entered into a certain Cash Management Agreement with Citizens, as well as certain Cash PledgeAgreements in amounts corresponding to the current outstanding letters of credits with customers (as further described in Note 13 to the Consolidated FinancialStatements).Foreign Exchange A portion of our international sales revenue has been and may be received in a currency other than the currency in which the expenses relating to such revenueare paid. Accordingly, we periodically enter into forward foreign exchange contracts to manage the market risks associated with the fluctuations in foreigncurrency exchange rates. As of December 31, 2021, we did not hold a position in forward foreign exchange contracts. Other Matters Management believes inflation has not had a material impact on our operations. 39Table of ContentsEBITDA and Adjusted EBITDA Reconciliation (in thousands) References to “EBITDA” mean net (loss) income, before taking into account interest expense (income), provision for income taxes, depreciation andamortization. References to Adjusted EBITDA exclude the impact of litigation, loss on impairment, employee retention credit, PPP loan forgiveness,restructuring charges, stock-based compensation expense, change in fair value of derivative instruments, and VAT write-off. EBITDA and Adjusted EBITDAare not measures of financial performance under generally accepted accounting principles (GAAP). Management believes EBITDA and Adjusted EBITDA, inaddition to operating profit, net income and other GAAP measures, are useful to investors to evaluate our results because it excludes certain items that are notdirectly related to our core operating performance that may, or could, have a disproportionate positive or negative impact on our results for any particularperiod. Investors should recognize that EBITDA and Adjusted EBITDA might not be comparable to similarly-titled measures of other companies. This measureshould be considered in addition to, and not as a substitute for or superior to, any measure of performance prepared in accordance with GAAP. A reconciliationof non-GAAP EBITDA and Adjusted EBITDA to the most directly comparable GAAP measure in accordance with SEC Regulation G follows: Three Months Ended Twelve Months Ended December 31, December 31, 2021 2020 2021 2020 Net income (loss) $(1,857) $(1,469) $10,607 $(10,537)Interest expense, net 24 67 159 623 Provision for income taxes 36 189 163 355 Depreciation and amortization 439 582 1,865 2,612 EBITDA (1,358) (631) 12,794 (6,947)Litigation (22) 568 (22) 477 Loss on impairment - - 3 4,302 Employee retention credit - - (7,162) - PPP Loan and accumulated interest forgiveness - - (10,127) - Restructuring charges - 1,102 798 1,297 Stock-based compensation expense 259 21 1,043 378 Change in fair value of derivative instruments (19) 52 (19) 17 Acquisition-related expense - 1 - 192 VAT write-off - - 450 - Adjusted EBITDA $(1,140) $1,113 $(2,242) $(284)40Table of ContentsAdjusted Net (Loss) Income and Adjusted EPS Reconciliation (in thousands, except per share amounts)References to Adjusted net (loss) income exclude the impact of litigation, loss on impairment, employee retention credit, PPP loan forgiveness, restructuringcharges, stock-based compensation expense, change in fair value of derivative instruments, acquisition-related expenses, VAT write-off, amortization ofintangible assets related to acquisitions, release of valuation allowance, and income tax expense impact of adjustments. Adjusted Net Income and adjustedearnings per share (adjusted EPS) are not measures of financial performance under GAAP. Management believes adjusted net income and adjusted EPS, inaddition to other GAAP measures, are useful to investors to evaluate our results because they exclude certain items that are not directly related to our coreoperating performance and non-cash items that may, or could, have a disproportionate positive or negative impact on our results for any particular period.These measures should be considered in addition to, and not as a substitute for or superior to, any measure of performance prepared in accordance with GAAP.A reconciliation of non-GAAP adjusted net income and adjusted EPS to GAAP net income, the most directly comparable GAAP financial measure, is asfollows: Three Months endedDecember 31, Twelve Months endedDecember 31, 2021 2020 2021 2020 (unaudited) (unaudited) audited audited Net income (loss) $(1,857) $(1,469) $10,607 $(10,537)Litigation (22) 568 (22) 477 Loss on impairment - - 3 4,302 Employee retention credit - - (7,162) - PPP Loan and accumulated interest forgiveness - - (10,127) - Restructuring charges - 1,102 798 1,297 Stock-based compensation expense 259 21 1,043 378 Change in fair value of derivative instruments (19) 52 (19) 17 Acquisition-related expense - 1 - 192 VAT write-off - - 450 - Amortization of intangible assets related to acquisitions 284 415 1,213 1,943 Valuation allowance 246 1,589 246 1,589 Income tax expense impact of adjustments 46 345 46 345 Adjusted net income (loss) $(1,063) $2,624 $(2,924) $3 Diluted earnings (loss) per common share $(0.09) $(0.07) $0.51 $(0.52) Adjusted earnings (loss) per common share – Diluted $(0.05) $0.13 $(0.14) $0 Weighted average shares outstanding – Diluted 20,901,005 20,646,910 20,761,191 20,439,157 ITEM 7A.QUANTITATIVE AND QUALITATIVE DISCLOSURES ABOUT MARKET RISK.Not required of a smaller reporting company.41Table of ContentsITEM 8.FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND SUPPLEMENTARY DATA.INDEX TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS PageGSE Systems, Inc. and Subsidiaries Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firms43Consolidated Balance Sheets as of December 31, 2021 and 202047Consolidated Statements of Operations for the Years ended December 31, 2021 and 202049Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income (Loss) for the Years ended December 31, 2021 and 202050Consolidated Statements of Changes in Shareholders’ Equity for the Years ended December 31, 2021 and 202051Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows for the Years ended December 31, 2021 and 202052Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements53 42Table of ContentsReport of Independent Registered Public Accounting FirmShareholders and the Board of DirectorsGSE Systems, Inc.Columbia, MarylandOpinion on the Consolidated Financial StatementsWe have audited the accompanying consolidated balance sheets of GSE Systems, Inc. (the "Company") as of December 31, 2021 and 2020, the relatedconsolidated statements of operations, comprehensive income (loss), changes in stockholders’ equity and cashflows, for each of the two years in the periodended December 31, 2021, and the related notes (collectively referred to as the "financial statements"). In our opinion, the financial statements present fairly, inall material respects, the financial position of the Company as of December 31, 2021 and 2020, and the results of their operations and their cash flows for eachof the two years in the period ended December 31, 2021, in conformity with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles.Basis for OpinionThese financial statements are the responsibility of the Company's management. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on the Company's financialstatements based on our audits. We are a public accounting firm registered with the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States) ("PCAOB")and are required to be independent with respect to the Company in accordance with the U.S. federal securities laws and the applicable rules and regulations ofthe Securities and Exchange Commission and the PCAOB.We conducted our audits in accordance with the standards of the PCAOB. Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonableassurance about whether the financial statements are free of material misstatement, whether due to error or fraud. The Company is not required to have, norwere we engaged to perform, an audit of its internal control over financial reporting. As part of our audits we are required to obtain an understanding of internalcontrol over financial reporting but not for the purpose of expressing an opinion on the effectiveness of the Company's internal control over financial reporting.Accordingly, we express no such opinion.Our audits included performing procedures to assess the risks of material misstatement of the financial statements, whether due to error or fraud, andperforming procedures that respond to those risks. Such procedures included examining, on a test basis, evidence regarding the amounts and disclosures in thefinancial statements. Our audits also included evaluating the accounting principles used and significant estimates made by management, as well as evaluatingthe overall presentation of the financial statements. We believe that our audits provide a reasonable basis for our opinion.Critical Audit MattersThe critical audit matters communicated below are matters arising from the current period audit of the financial statements that were communicated or requiredto be communicated to the audit committee and that: (1) relate to accounts or disclosures that are material to the financial statements and (2) involved ourespecially challenging, subjective, or complex judgments. The communication of critical audit matters does not alter in any way our opinion on the financialstatements, taken as a whole, and we are not, by communicating the critical audit matters below, providing separate opinions on the critical audit matters or onthe accounts or disclosures to which they relate.43Table of ContentsGoodwill Impairment Assessment At December 31, 2021, the Company’s goodwill was $13.3 million. As discussed in Notes 1 and 7 of the financial statements, the Company reviews goodwillfor impairment at the reporting unit level annually as of December 31 and whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate the carrying value of goodwillmay not be recoverable. The Company’s goodwill impairment analysis includes the use of a discounted cash flow model that requires management to makeassumptions regarding estimates of revenue growth rates and operating margins used to calculate projected future cash flows, and risk-adjusted discount rates.The Company also made certain judgments and assumptions in allocating shared assets and liabilities to determine the carrying values for each of its reportingunits. The Company completed its annual quantitative analysis as of December 31, 2021, and concluded that the fair values of each of its reporting unitsexceeded their respective carrying values.We identified the Company’s goodwill impairment assessment as a critical audit matter. The principal considerations for our determination are the high degreeof auditor judgment and subjectivity in evaluating management’s significant assumptions used in the discounted cash flow model, particularly as it relates toevaluating revenue growth rates, operating margins and discount rates, and our use of an auditor’s specialist.The primary procedures we performed to address this critical audit matter included:•Obtained an understanding of management’s process for developing fair value estimates including testing the completeness, accuracy, and relevanceof underlying data and evaluating significant management assumptions by comparing historical revenue and operating results to budgeted amounts;and reviewing backlog and projected revenues giving consideration to the impact the COVID-19 pandemic has had on the Company’s operations.•Performed sensitivity analyses of significant assumptions, particularly as they relate to revenue growth rates, operating margins and discount rates,and evaluated their impact on future cash flows that form the basis of fair value for the reporting units.•Utilized firm personnel with specialized knowledge and skills in valuation to assist in assessing the appropriateness of the fair value methodology,evaluating the reasonableness of certain assumptions used including the discount rates and testing the mathematical accuracy of the discounted cashflow model.44Table of ContentsRevenue recognition -Estimates-at-CompletionAs described in Notes 1 and 5 to the financial statements, the Company derives its revenue through three broad revenue streams: 1) System Design and Build(SDB), 2) Software, and 3) Training and Consulting services. The transaction price under the SDB contracts is allocated to each performance obligation basedon its standalone selling price and the Company recognizes revenue for certain performance obligations over time as control is transferred to a customer usingthe cost-to-cost input method based on actual costs incurred to date relative to the total estimated costs. Estimated contract costs are reviewed and revisedperiodically during the contract period, and the cumulative effect of any change in estimates is recognized in the period in which the change is identified.Management’s judgments and estimates involved in the initial creation and subsequent updates to the Company’s estimates-at-completion and related profitrecognized are critical for revenue recognition associated with SDB contracts. Inputs and assumptions requiring significant management judgments includedanticipated direct labor, subcontract labor, and other direct costs required to deliver on unfinished performance obligations. Significant changes to costestimates can result in variances in revenue and related margins.We identified revenue recognition associated with SDB contracts as a critical audit matter. The principal considerations for our determination are the highdegree of auditor judgment and subjectivity in evaluating management’s judgments involved in the creation and subsequent updates to the Company’sestimates-at-completion, particularly as it relates to evaluating anticipated direct labor, subcontract labor, and other direct costs. We also considered the effecton our audit procedures of the material weakness identified by management over the management review of unbilled receivables and billings in excess ofrevenue earned.45Table of ContentsThe primary procedures we performed to address this critical audit matter included: •We obtained an understanding of management’s process for applying the cost-to-cost method to SBD contracts, including management’s process fordeveloping, revising, and applying estimates-at-completion and the on-going monitoring.•For a sample of contracts, we evaluated inputs and assumptions requiring significant management judgments included within the Company’sestimation of costs to complete by performed the following:•Inspected the underlying contract, related amendments, and change orders (if any) to test the existence of customer arrangements and obtainan understanding of the contractual requirements and related performance obligations.•Tested actual costs incurred to-date and assessed the relative progress toward satisfying the performance obligation(s) of the contract.•Evaluated the estimation of costs to complete including anticipated direct labor, subcontract labor, and other direct cost by:•Inquiring of financial and operational personnel of the Company and evaluating factors within the cost to complete estimates thatmay demonstrate indication of potential management bias.•Inspecting correspondences, if any, between the Company and the customer regarding actual to-date and expected performance.•Evaluating the sufficiency of the Company’s assessment of contract performance risks included within the estimated costs tocomplete.•Performing a “look back” analysis by comparing the Company’s historical estimates of costs to complete to actual costs incurred insubsequent documentation to assess the Company’s ability to develop reliable cost estimates.•In response to the material weakness noted above, we obtained account reconciliations of unbilled receivables and billings in excess of revenue earnedas of December 31, 2021, evaluated the accuracy and completeness of the schedules, agreed such reconciliations to the trial balance to determinewhether reconciling items were appropriate and isolated and investigated all unbilled receivables with no recent activity. DIXON HUGHES GOODMAN LLP We have served as the Company’s auditor since 2020.Tysons, VirginiaMarch 31, 202246Table of ContentsPART I - FINANCIAL INFORMATIONItem 1. Financial StatementsGSE SYSTEMS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIESCONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS(in thousands, except share data) December 31, 2021 2020 ASSETS Current assets: Cash and cash equivalents $3,550 $6,702 Contract receivables, net 11,257 10,494 Prepaid expenses and other current assets 5,262 1,554 Total current assets 20,069 18,750 Equipment, software and leasehold improvements, net 839 616 Software development costs, net 532 630 Goodwill 13,339 13,339 Intangible assets, net 3,020 4,234 Operating lease right-of-use assets, net 1,200 1,562 Other assets 52 59 Total assets $39,051 $39,190 LIABILITIES AND SHAREHOLDERS' EQUITY Current liabilities: Line of credit $1,817 $3,006 PPP Loan, current portion - 5,034 Accounts payable 1,179 570 Accrued expenses 1,358 1,297 Accrued compensation 1,452 1,505 Billings in excess of revenue earned 5,029 5,285 Accrued warranty 667 665 Income taxes payable 1,654 1,621 Other current liabilities 1,883 2,498 Total current liabilities 15,039 21,481 PPP Loan, noncurrent portion - 5,034 Operating lease liabilities noncurrent 790 1,831 Other noncurrent liabilities 179 339 Total liabilities 16,008 28,685 Commitments and contingencies (Note 16) Shareholders' equity: Preferred stock $0.01 par value; 2,000,000 shares authorized; no shares issued and outstanding - - Common stock $0.01 par value; 60,000,000 shares authorized, 22,533,005 and 22,192,569 shares issued, 20,934,094and 20,593,658 shares outstanding, respectively 225 222 Additional paid-in capital 80,505 79,687 Accumulated deficit (54,584) (65,191)Accumulated other comprehensive loss (104) (1,214)Treasury stock at cost, 1,598,911 shares (2,999) (2,999)Total shareholders' equity 23,043 10,505 Total liabilities and shareholders' equity $39,051 $39,190 The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements.47Table of ContentsGSE SYSTEMS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIESCONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS(in thousands, except per share data) Years ended December 31, 2021 2020 Revenue $55,183 $57,620 Cost of revenue 43,325 42,835 Gross profit 11,858 14,785 Operating expenses Selling, general and administrative 14,908 15,765 Research and development 626 686 Restructuring charges 798 1,297 Loss on impairment 3 4,302 Depreciation 284 330 Amortization of definite-lived intangible assets 1,213 1,943 Total operating expenses 17,832 24,323 Operating loss (5,974) (9,538) Interest expense (159) (623)Gain (loss) on derivative instruments, net 19 (17)Other income (expense), net 16,884 (4)Income (loss) before taxes 10,770 (10,182)Provision for income taxes 163 355 Net income (loss) $10,607 $(10,537) Net income (loss) per common share - basic $0.51 $(0.52) Diluted income (loss) per common share $0.51 $(0.52) Weighted average shares outstanding used to compute net loss per share - basic 20,761,191 20,439,157 Weighted average shares outstanding - Diluted 20,761,191 20,439,157 The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements.48Table of ContentsGSE SYSTEMS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIESCONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF COMPREHENSIVE INCOME (LOSS)(in thousands) Years ended December 31, 2021 2020 Net income (loss) $10,607 $(10,537)Cumulative translation adjustment 1,110 632Comprehensive Income (loss) $11,717 $(9,905)The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements.49Table of ContentsGSE SYSTEMS, INC, AND SUBSIDIARIESCONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CHANGES IN SHAREHOLDERS’ EQUITY(in thousands) CommonStock AdditionalPaid-in Accumulated AccumulatedOtherComprehensive Treasury Stock Shares Amount Capital Deficit Loss Shares Amount Total Balance, January 1, 2020 21,839 $218 $79,400 $(54,654) $(1,846) (1,599) $(2,999) $20,119 Stock-based compensation expense - - 378 - - - - 378 Common stock issued for RSUs vested 354 4 (4) - - - - - Shares withheld to pay taxes - - (87) - - - - (87)Foreign currency translation adjustment - - - - 632 - - 632 Net loss - - - (10,537) - - - (10,537)Balance, December 31, 2020 22,193 $222 $79,687 $(65,191) $(1,214) (1,599) $(2,999) $10,505 Stock-based compensation expense - - 1,043 - - - - 1,043 Common stock issued for RSUs vested 340 3 (3) - - - - - Shares withheld to pay taxes - - (222) - - - - (222)Foreign currency translation adjustment - - - - 1,110 - - 1,110 Net income - - - 10,607 - - - 10,607 Balance, December 31, 2021 22,533 $225 $80,505 $(54,584) $(104) (1,599) $(2,999) $23,043 The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements.50Table of ContentsGSE SYSTEMS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIESCONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS(in thousands) Years ended December 31, 2021 2020 Cash flows from operating activities: Net income (loss) $10,607 $(10,537)Adjustments to reconcile net loss to net cash (used in) provided by operating activities: Loss on impairment 3 4,302 Depreciation 284 330 Amortization of intangible assets 1,213 1,943 Amortization of capitalized software development costs 368 339 Amortization of deferred financing costs 11 82 Gain on PPP loan forgiveness (10,127) - Stock-based compensation expense 1,043 378 Bad debt (recovery) expense 691 103 ((Gain) loss on derivative instruments, net (19) 17 Deferred income taxes 93 - Gain on sale of assets - (5)Changes in assets and liabilities: Contract receivables, net (1,397) 6,901 Prepaid expenses and other assets (3,517) 81 Accounts payable, accrued compensation and accrued expenses 805 (1,498)Billings in excess of revenue earned (270) (2,374)Accrued warranty (176) (721)Other liabilities 235 1,777 Net cash (used in) provided by operating activities (153) 1,118 Cash flows from investing activities: Capital expenditures (506) (13)Proceeds from sale of equipment - 11 Capitalized software development costs (270) (328)Net cash used in investing activities (776) (330) Cash flows from financing activities: Proceeds from line of credit 800 4,752 Repayment of line of credit (1,989) (1,746)Payment of insurance premium (812) (204)Repayment of long-term debt - (18,481)Proceeds from Paycheck Protection Program Loan - 10,000 Termination fee on Interest rate swap agreement - (209)Shares withheld to pay taxes (222) (87)Deferred financing costs - (91)Net cash used in financing activities (2,223) (6,066) Effect of exchange rate changes on cash - 289 Net decrease in cash and cash equivalents (3,152) (4,989)Cash, cash equivalents at beginning of year 6,702 11,691 Cash, cash equivalents at end of year $3,550 $6,702 The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements.51Table of ContentsGSE SYSTEMS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIESNOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTSDecember 31, 2021 and 20201. Summary of Significant Accounting PoliciesPrinciples of consolidationGSE Systems, Inc. is a leading provider of professional and technical engineering, staffing services, and simulation software to clients in the power and processindustries. References in this report to “GSE,” the “Company,” “we” and “our” are to GSE Systems, Inc. and its subsidiaries, collectively. All intercompanybalances and transactions have been eliminated in consolidation.Accounting estimatesThe preparation of the consolidated financial statements in conformity with generally accepted accounting principles in the United States of America (U.S.GAAP) requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and disclosure of contingent assetsand liabilities at the date of the consolidated financial statements and the reported amounts of revenue and expenses during the reporting period. On an ongoingbasis, we evaluate the estimates used, including, but not limited to those related to revenue recognition on long-term contracts, allowance for doubtful accounts,product warranties, valuation of goodwill and intangible assets acquired, impairment of long-lived assets to be disposed of, valuation of stock-basedcompensation awards and the recoverability of deferred tax assets. Actual results could differ from these estimates.Business combinationsBusiness combinations are accounted for in accordance with the Financial Accounting Standards Board (“FASB”) ASC 805, Business Combinations, using theacquisition method. Under the acquisition method, the identifiable assets acquired, liabilities assumed and any non-controlling interest in the acquiree arerecognized at fair value on the acquisition date, which is the date on which control is transferred to us. Any excess purchase price is recorded as goodwill.Transaction costs associated with business combinations are expensed as incurred.Revenues and the results of operations of the acquired business are included in the accompanying consolidated statements of operations commencing on thedate of acquisition.Acquisitions may include contingent consideration payments based on future financial measures of an acquired company. Under ASC 805, contingentconsideration is required to be recognized at fair value as of the acquisition date. We estimate the fair value of these liabilities based on financial projections ofthe acquired companies and estimated probabilities of achievement. At each reporting date, the contingent consideration obligation is revalued to estimated fairvalue, and changes in fair value subsequent to the acquisition are reflected in income or expense in the consolidated statements of operations, and could cause amaterial impact to our operating results. Changes in the fair value of contingent consideration obligations may result from changes in discount periods andrates, changes in the timing and amount of revenue and/or earnings estimates, and changes in probability assumptions with respect to the likelihood ofachieving the various earn-out criteria.Revenue recognitionWe derive our revenue through three broad revenue streams: 1) System Design and Build (“SDB”), 2) software, and 3) training and consulting services. Werecognize revenue from SDB and software contracts mainly through the Performance Improvement Solutions segment and the training and consulting servicecontracts through both the Performance Improvement Solutions segment and Workforce Solutions segment.The SDB contracts are typically fixed-price and consist of initial design, engineering, assembly and installation of training simulators which include hardware,software, labor, and PCS on the software. We generally have two main performance obligations for an SDB contract: (1) the training simulator build and (2) thePCS period. The training simulator build performance obligation generally includes hardware, software, and labor. The transaction price under the SDBcontracts is allocated to each performance obligation based on its standalone selling price. We recognize the training simulator build revenue over theconstruction and installation period using the cost-to-cost input method. In applying the cost-to-cost input method, we use the actual costs incurred to daterelative to the total estimated costs to measure the work progress toward the completion of the performance obligation and recognize revenue over time ascontrol transfers to a customer. Estimated contract costs are reviewed and revised periodically during the contract period, and the cumulative effect of anychange in estimates is recognized in the period in which the change is identified. Estimated losses are recognized in the period such losses become known.52Table of ContentsUncertainties inherent in the performance of contracts include labor availability and productivity, material costs, change order scope and pricing, softwaremodification and customer acceptance issues. The reliability of these cost estimates is critical to our revenue recognition as a significant change in the estimatescan cause our revenue and related margins to change significantly from previous estimates.Management judgments and estimates involved in the initial creation and subsequent updates to our estimates-at-completion and related profit recognized arecritical for our revenue recognition associated with SDB contracts. Inputs and assumptions requiring significant management judgment included anticipateddirect labor, subcontract labor, and other direct costs required to deliver on unfinished performance obligations.The SDB contracts generally provide a one-year base warranty on the systems. The base warranty will not be accounted for as a separate performanceobligation under the contract because it does not provide the customer with a service in addition to the assurance that the completed project complies withagreed-upon specifications. Warranties extended beyond our typical one-year period will be evaluated on a case-by-case basis to determine if it provides morethan just assurance that the product operates as intended, which requires carve-out as a separate performance obligation.Revenue from the sale of perpetual standalone and term software licenses, which do not require significant modification or customization, is recognized uponits delivery to the customer. Revenue from the sale of cloud-based, subscription-based software licenses is recognized ratably over the term of such licensesfollowing delivery to the customer. Delivery is considered to have occurred when the customer receives a copy of the software and is able to use and benefitfrom the software.A software license sale contract with multiple deliverables typically includes the following elements: license, installation and training services, and PCS. Thetotal transaction price of a software license sale contract is typically fixed and is allocated to the identified performance obligations based on their relativestandalone selling prices. Revenue is recognized as the performance obligations are satisfied. Specifically, license revenue is recognized when the softwarelicense is delivered to the customer; installation and training revenue are recognized when the installation and training are completed without regard to adetailed evaluation of the point in time criteria due to the short-term nature of the installation and training services (one to two days on average); and PCSrevenue is recognized ratably over the service period, as PCS is deemed as a stand-ready obligation.The contracts within the training and consulting services revenue stream are either T&M based or fixed-price based. Under a typical T&M contract, we arecompensated based on the number of hours of approved time provided by temporary workers and the bill rates which are fixed by type of work, as well asapproved expenses incurred. The customers are billed on a regular basis, such as weekly, biweekly or monthly. In accordance with ASC 606-10-55-18, Revenuefrom contracts with customers, we elected to apply the “right to invoice” practical expedient, under which we recognize revenue in the amount to which wehave the right to invoice. The invoice amount represents the number of hours of approved time worked by each temporary worker multiplied by the bill rate forthe type of work, as well as approved expenses incurred. Under a typical fixed-price contract, we recognize the revenue on a Percentage of Completion basis asit relates to construction contracts with revenue recognized based on project delivery over time. Revenue from the sale of short-term contracts with a deliveryperiod of one month or less is recognized in the month completed.For contracts with multiple performance obligations, we allocate the contract price to each performance obligation based on its relative standalone selling price.We generally determine standalone selling prices based on the prices charged to customers.The transaction price for software contracts is generally fixed, and we recognize revenue upon delivery of the software, with fees due in advance or shortlyafter delivery of the software.53Table of ContentsWe recognize training and consulting services revenue as services are performed and bill our customers for services that we have provided on a regular basis(i.e. weekly, biweekly or monthly).Contract asset relates to performance under the contract for obligations that are satisfied but not yet billed, which we classify as contract receivables, net.Contract liability, which we classify as billing-in-excess of revenue earned, relates to payments received in advance of performance under the contract.Contract liabilities are recognized as revenue as performance obligations are satisfied.Cash and cash equivalentsCash and cash equivalents represent cash and highly liquid investments including money market accounts with maturities of three months or less at the date ofpurchase.Contract receivables, net and contract asset and liabilitiesContract receivables include recoverable costs and accrued profit not billed which represents revenue recognized in excess of amounts billed. Contract asset(contract receivables, net) include amounts earned in performance of services that have not been invoiced. Contract liabilities include billings in excess ofrevenue earned on uncompleted contracts in the accompanying consolidated balance sheets represent advanced billings to clients on contracts in advance ofwork performed. Generally, such amounts will be earned and recognized over the next twelve months.Billed receivables are recorded at invoiced amounts. The allowance for doubtful accounts is based on historical trends of past due accounts, write-offs, specificidentification and review of customer accounts.Impairment of long-lived assetsLong-lived assets, such as equipment, purchased software, capitalized software development costs, and intangible assets subject to amortization, are reviewedfor impairment whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying amount of an asset may not be recoverable. Recoverability of assets tobe held and used is measured by a comparison of the carrying amount of an asset to estimated undiscounted future cash flows expected to be generated by theasset. If the carrying amount of an asset exceeds its estimated undiscounted future cash flows, an impairment charge is recognized at the amount by which thecarrying amount of the asset exceeds its fair value. Assets to be disposed of would be separately presented in the consolidated balance sheets and reported at thelower of the carrying amount or fair value less costs to sell and would no longer be depreciated.Development expendituresDevelopment expenditures incurred to meet customer specifications under contracts are charged to cost of revenue. Company sponsored developmentexpenditures are either charged to operations as incurred and are included in research and development expenses or are capitalized as software developmentcosts. The amounts incurred for Company sponsored development activities relating to the development of new products and services or the improvement ofexisting products and services, were approximately $0.9 million and $1.0 million for the years ended December 31, 2021 and 2020, respectively. Of theseamounts, the Company capitalized approximately $0.3 million and $0.3 million for the years ended December 31, 2021 and 2020, respectively.Equipment, software and leasehold improvements, netEquipment and purchased software are recorded at cost and depreciated using the straight-line method with estimated useful lives ranging from three years toten years. Leasehold improvements are amortized over the term of the lease or the estimated useful life, whichever is shorter, using the straight-line method.Upon sale or retirement, the cost and related depreciation are eliminated from the respective accounts and any resulting gain or loss is included in operations.Maintenance and repairs are charged to expense as incurred.54Table of ContentsSoftware development costsCertain computer software development costs, including direct labor cost, are capitalized in the accompanying consolidated balance sheets. Capitalization ofcomputer software development costs begins upon the establishment of technological feasibility. Capitalization ceases and amortization of capitalized costsbegins when the software product is commercially available for general release to customers. Amortization of capitalized computer software development costsis included in cost of revenue and is determined using the straight-line method over the remaining estimated economic life of the product, typically three years.On an annual basis, or more frequently as conditions indicate, we assess the recovery of the unamortized software development costs by estimating the netundiscounted cash flows expected to be generated by the sale of the product. If the undiscounted cash flows are not sufficient to recover the unamortizedsoftware cost we will write-down the carrying amount of such asset to its estimated fair value based on the future discounted cash flows. The excess of anyunamortized computer software costs over the related fair value is written down and charged to operations. Included in capitalized software development costsare certain expenses associated with the development software as a service. Significant changes in the sales projections could result in an impairment withrespect to the capitalized software that is reported on our consolidated balance sheets.Goodwill and intangible assetsOur intangible assets include amounts recognized in connection with business acquisitions, including customer relationships, trade names, non-competeagreements and alliance agreements. Due to the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, definite-lived intangible assets were reviewed for impairment in the firstquarter of 2020. The undiscounted cash flows evidenced impairment for the DP Engineering asset group as such, we used a discounted cash flow model todetermine the fair value of the DP Engineering asset group and recorded an impairment charge of $4.3 million as of the period ended March 31, 2020.Our intangible assets impairment analysis includes the use of undiscounted and discounted cash flow models that requires management to make assumptionsregarding estimates of revenue growth rates and operating margins used to calculate projected future cash flows.Intangible assets are initially valued at fair value using generally accepted valuation methods appropriate for the type of intangible asset. Amortization isrecognized on a straight-line basis over the estimated useful life of the intangible asset, except for contract backlog and contractual customer relations, whichare recognized in proportion to the related project revenue streams. Intangible assets with definite lives are reviewed for impairment if indicators of impairmentarise. We do not have any intangible assets with indefinite useful lives.Goodwill represents the excess of costs over fair value of assets of businesses acquired. We review goodwill for impairment annually as of December 31 andwhenever events or changes in circumstances indicate the carrying value of goodwill may not be recoverable. We test goodwill at the reporting unit level. Areporting unit is an operating segment, or one level below an operating segment, as defined by U.S. GAAP. We have determined that we have two reportingunits, which are the same as our two operating segments: (i) Performance Improvement Solutions (“Performance”) and (ii) Workforce Solutions.ASU 2011-08 permits an entity to first assess qualitative factors to determine whether it is more likely than not that the fair value of a reporting unit is less thanits carrying amount as a basis for determining whether it is necessary to perform impairment testing. Under ASU 2011-08, an entity is not required to performstep one of the goodwill impairment test for a reporting unit if it is more likely than not that its fair value is greater than its carrying amount. Additionally, ASU2017-04 permits eliminating two step approach when there is indication of impairment.During the first quarter of fiscal 2020, We determined that the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on our operations was an indicator of a triggering event thatcould result in potential impairment of goodwill. As such we performed a Step 1 goodwill analysis whereby we compared the fair value of each reporting unitto its respective carrying value. Based upon this analysis, we determined the fair value of each of our reporting units exceeded the carrying value and thus therewas no impairment as of the period ended March 31, 2020. We completed our annual quantitative step 1 analysis as of December 31, 2021 and 2020 andconcluded that the fair values of each of our reporting units exceeded their respective carrying values.Our goodwill impairment analysis includes the use of a discounted cash flow model that requires management to make assumptions regarding estimates ofrevenue growth rates and operating margins used to calculate projected future cash flows, and risk-adjusted discount rates. We make certain judgments andassumptions in allocating shared assets and liabilities to determine the carrying values for each of our reporting units.55Table of ContentsForeign currency translationThe United States Dollar (USD) is our functional currency and that of our subsidiaries operating in the United States. The functional currency of each of ourforeign subsidiaries is the currency of the economic environment in which the subsidiary primarily does business. Our foreign subsidiaries’ financial statementsare translated into USD using the exchange rates applicable to the dates of the financial statements. Assets and liabilities are translated into USD using theperiod-end spot foreign exchange rates. Income and expenses are translated at the average exchange rate for the year. Equity accounts are translated athistorical exchange rates. The effects of these translation adjustments are cumulative translation adjustments, which are reported as a component ofaccumulated other comprehensive income (loss) included in the consolidated statements of changes in shareholders’ equity.For any business transaction that is in a currency different from the entity’s functional currency, we record a gain or loss based on the difference between theexchange rate at the transaction date and the exchange rate at the transaction settlement date (or rate at period end, if unsettled) to the foreign currency realizedgain (loss) account in the consolidated statements of operations.Income taxesIncome taxes are provided under the asset and liability method. Under this method, deferred income taxes are determined based on the differences between theconsolidated financial statements and tax bases of assets and liabilities using enacted tax rates in effect for the year in which the differences are expected toreverse. Valuation allowances are established, when necessary, to reduce deferred tax assets to the amounts expected to be realized. A provision is made for ourcurrent liability for federal, state and foreign income taxes and the change in our deferred income tax assets and liabilities.We establish accruals for uncertain tax positions taken or expected to be taken in a tax return when it is not more likely than not (i.e., a likelihood of more thanfifty percent) that the position would be sustained upon examination by tax authorities that have full knowledge of all relevant information. A recognized taxposition is then measured at the largest amount of benefit that is greater than 50% likely of being realized upon ultimate settlement. Favorable or unfavorableadjustment of the accrual for any particular issue would be recognized as an increase or decrease to income tax expense in the period of a change in facts andcircumstances. Interest and penalties related to income taxes are accounted for as income tax expense.Stock-based compensationStock-based compensation expense is based on the grant-date fair value estimated in accordance with the provisions of ASC 718, Compensation-StockCompensation. Compensation expense related to stock-based awards is recognized on a pro rata straight-line basis based on the fair value of share awards thatare scheduled to vest during the requisite service period.Significant customers and concentration of credit riskFor the year ended December 31, 2021, we have a concentration of revenue from one individual customer, which accounted for 13.8% of our consolidatedrevenue. For the year ended December 31, 2020, we have a concentration of revenue from one individual customer, which accounted for 14.1% of ourconsolidated revenue. No other individual customer accounted for more than 10% of our consolidated revenue in 2021 or 2020.As of December 31, 2021 and 2020, we have no customer that accounted over 10% of the Company’s consolidated contract receivables.Fair values of financial instrumentsThe carrying amounts of current assets and current liabilities reported in the consolidated balance sheets approximate fair value due to their short term duration.56Table of ContentsDerivative instrumentsOccasionally, we utilize forward foreign currency exchange contracts to manage market risks associated with the fluctuations in foreign currency exchangerates. It is our policy to use such derivative financial instruments to protect against market risk arising in the normal course of business in order to reduce theimpact of these exposures. We minimize credit exposure by limiting counterparties to nationally recognized financial institutions. We do not have suchderivative instruments as of December 31, 2021.COVID-19Our employees began working remotely during the first quarter of 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic and will continue to do so when practical and asmandated by local, state and federal directives and regulations. Employees almost entirely work from home within our Performance Improvement Solutionssegment, except when required to be at the client site for essential project work. Our Performance contracts, which are considered an essential service, arepermitted to and mostly continue without pause; however, we have experienced certain delays in new business. For our staff augmentation business, we haveseen certain contracts for our Workforce Solutions customers paused or delayed as clients shrink their own on-premise workforces to the minimum operatinglevels in response to the pandemic; as a result, our Workforce Solutions segment has experienced a decline in its billable employee base since the start of thepandemic. Although we cannot fully estimate the length or gravity of the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic to our business at this time, we have experienceddelays in commencing new projects and thus our ability to recognize revenue has been delayed for some contracts. We have also experienced order reductionsor other negative changes to orders due to the pandemic. We routinely monitor our operating expenses as a result of contract delays and have made adjustmentsto keep our gross profit at a sustainable level.2. Recent Accounting PronouncementsAccounting pronouncements recently adoptedIn January 2020, the FASB issued ASU 2020-01, Investments – Equity Securities, Investments – Equity Method and Joint Ventures, and Derivatives andHedging, which provides clarity for companies that hold equity securities at cost to first update the fair value of an investment, immediately prior to applyingthe Equity Method of Accounting; or clarity for companies that enter into forward contracts to purchase additional shares of an equity security that would thenrequire the investee to account for the investment via the Equity Method. This ASU is applicable for public companies starting with fiscal years beginning afterDecember 15, 2020 and interim periods within those fiscal years. We adopted ASU 2020-01 on January 1, 2021. This standard did not have a significant impactto our consolidated financial statements since we do not currently hold any investments at cost.In September 2020, the FASB issued ASU 2020-10, Codification Improvements, which is part of an ongoing attempt to improve the consistency of thecodification. Previously the option to disclose information in the notes to the financial statements was in one of two sections: Disclosure Section (Section 50)or Other Presentation Matters (Section 45). ASU 2020-10 conforms the disclosure requirements into Section 50 and provides additional information on specificguidance that was previously unclear or not included in the codification. This ASU is applicable for public companies starting with fiscal years beginning afterDecember 15, 2020, with early adoption available for interim and annual financial statements not already filed and using the retrospective approach. However,the FASB does not believe that this should change any of the current reporting or disclosure requirements. We adopted ASU 2020-10 on January 1, 2021. Theadoption of this standard did not have a material impact to our consolidated financial statements.Accounting pronouncements not yet adoptedIn June 2016, the FASB issued ASU 2016-13, Financial Instruments - Credit Losses, which introduces new guidance for credit losses on instruments within itsscope. The new guidance introduces an approach based on expected losses to estimate credit losses on certain types of financial instruments, including, but notlimited to, trade and other receivables, held-to-maturity debt securities, loans and net investments in leases. The new guidance also modifies the impairmentmodel for availablefor- debt securities and requires the entities to determine whether all or a portion of the unrealized loss on an available-for-sale debt securityis a credit loss. The standard also indicates that entities may not use the length of time a security has been in an unrealized loss position as a factor inconcluding whether a credit loss exists. Early adoption is permitted for all entities for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2018, including interim periodswithin those fiscal years. On October 16, 2019, the FASB voted to defer the deadlines for private companies and certain small public companies, includingsmaller reporting companies, to implement the new accounting standards on credit losses. The new effective date is January 1, 2023. As a smaller reportingcompany, we have elected to defer adoption in line with new deadlines and are currently evaluating the effects, if any, that the adoption of this guidance willhave on our consolidated financial position, results of operations and cash flows.Management has evaluated other recently issued accounting pronouncements and does not believe that any of these pronouncements will have a significantimpact on our consolidated financial statements and related disclosures.573. Earnings per shareBasic earnings per share is based on the weighted average number of outstanding common shares for the period. Diluted earnings per share adjusts theweighted average shares outstanding for the potential dilution that could occur if outstanding vested stock options were exercised. Basic and diluted earningsper share are based on the weighted average number of outstanding shares for the period.The number of common shares and common share equivalents used in the determination of basic and diluted (loss) earnings per share were as follows:(in thousands, except for per share data) Years ended December 31, 2021 2020 Numerator: Net income (loss) attributed to common shareholders $10,607 $(10,537) Denominator: Weighted-average shares outstanding for basic earnings per share 20,761,191 20,439,157 Effect of dilutive securities: Dilutive RSU shares outstanding - - Adjusted weighted-average shares outstanding and assumed conversions for diluted earnings per share 20,761,191 20,439,157 Shares related to dilutive securities excluded because inclusion would be anti-dilutive - - 4. Coronavirus Aid, Relief and Economic Security ActPaycheck Protection Program Loan (PPP Loan)On March 27, 2020, the United States enacted the CARES Act. to extend liquidity to small businesses and assist in retaining employees during the COVID-19pandemic. We applied for and, on April 23, 2020, received a payroll protection program loan in the amount of $10.0 million (the “PPP Loan”) under theCARES Act, as administered by the SBA. The application for receipt of the PPP Loan required us to certify, in good faith, that the attendant economicuncertainty made the loan necessary to support our ongoing operations. The PPP Loan bore interest at a rate of 1% per annum and would mature on April 23,2022, with the first payment deferred until September 2021. We used the proceeds of the PPP Loan for payroll and related costs, rent and utilities. Pursuant tothe regulations promulgated by the SBA, in order to request forgiveness of the PPP Loan, we were required to submit an application to the Lendersubstantiating that we were entitled to the PPP Loan and used the proceeds of the PPP Loan as permitted under the CARES Act. The Lender reviewed ourapplication for forgiveness and associated documentation, and on February 26, 2021 forwarded our application to the SBA with the Lender’s determination thatthe loan is fully forgivable. On August 5, 2021, we received notice that full principal amount and all accrued interest thereon of the PPP Loan was formallyforgiven by the SBA. We recognized other income of $10.1 million related to this forgiveness during 2021.58Table of ContentsEmployee Retention Credits (ERC)Employee retention tax credits, made available under the CARES Act, allow eligible employers to claim a refundable tax credit against the employer share ofSocial Security tax equal to 70% of the qualified wages they pay to employees, initially from March 27, 2020 until June 30, 2021, and extended throughSeptember 30, 2021. For the fourth quarter of 2021, we have received a refund of $0.2 million from the IRS for previously filed Form 941s. For the year endedDecember 31, 2021 we have applied for a total of $5.0 million from the IRS with the timely filing of Form 941 and 941-X and recognized a benefit of $2.2million from unremitted payroll taxes as allowable. We recorded other income of $7.2 million related to the employee retention tax credits earned for the yearended December 31, 2021. As of December 31, 2021, we received employee retention tax credit refunds totaling $0.9 million with remaining outstandingrefunds receivable of $4.1 million which was included in the other current assets balance at December 31, 2021. Subsequent to the year end, we received theemployee retention tax credit refunds of $1.1 million.5. RevenueWe account for revenue in accordance with ASC 606, Revenue from Contracts with Customers. We primarily generate revenue through three distinct revenuestreams: (1) SDB, (2) software and (3) training and consulting services across our Performance and Workforce Solutions segments. We recognize revenue fromSDB and software contracts mainly through our Performance segment. We recognize training and consulting service contracts through PerformanceImprovement Solutions segment and Workforce Solutions segment. The following table represents a disaggregation of revenue by type of goods or services for the years ended December 31, 2021 and 2020, along with thereportable segment for each category:(in thousands) Twelve Months EndedDecember 31, 2021 2020 Performance Improvement Solutions segment System Design and Build $6,168 $11,197 Point in time - 316 Over time 6,168 10,881 Software 4,767 3,873 Point in time 343 1,411 Over time 4,424 2,462 Training and Consulting Services 17,316 17,720 Point in time 1,846 110 Over time 15,470 17,610 Workforce Solutions segment Training and Consulting Services 26,932 24,830 Point in time 476 21 Over time 26,456 24,809 Total revenue $55,183 $57,620 The following table reflects the balance of contract liabilities and the revenue recognized in the reporting period that was included in the contract liabilitiesfrom contracts with customers:(in thousands) December 31,2021 December 31,2020 Billings in excess of revenue earned (BIE) $5,029 $5,285 Revenue recognized in the period from amounts included in BIE at the beginning of the period $4,708 6,691 59Table of ContentsFor the year ended December 31, 2021, we recognized revenue of $26 thousand related to performance obligations satisfied in previous periods.As of December 31, 2021, the aggregate amount of transaction price allocated to the remaining performance obligations of SDB, software and fixed-pricetraining and consulting services contracts is $21.2 million. We will recognize the revenue as the performance obligations are satisfied, which is expected tooccur over the next twelve months.Part of the training and consulting services contracts are T&M based. Under a typical T&M contract, we are compensated based on the number of hours ofapproved time provided by temporary workers and the bill rates, which are fixed by type of work, as well as approved expenses incurred. As part of ouradoption of ASU 2014-09, we have elected to use the optional exemption under ASC 606-10-50-14(b) Revenue from contracts with customers, pursuant towhich we have excluded disclosures of transaction prices allocated to remaining performance obligations under such contracts and when we expect torecognize the revenue.6. Restructuring expensesInternational RestructuringOn December 27, 2017, the Board of Directors approved an international restructuring plan to streamline and optimize our global operations. Beginning inDecember 2017, we have been in the process of consolidating its engineering services and R&D activities to Maryland and ceasing an unprofitable non-corebusiness in the United Kingdom (UK). As a result, we have closed our offices in Nyköping, Sweden; Chennai, India; and Stockton-on-Tees, UK. These actionsare designed to improve our productivity by eliminating duplicate employee functions, increasing our focus on our core business, improving efficiency andmaintaining the full range of engineering capabilities while reducing costs and organizational complexity.We eliminated approximately 40 positions due to these changes, primarily in Europe and India, and has undertaken other related cost-savings measures. As aresult of these efforts, we have recorded total restructuring charges of approximately $3.9 million, primarily related to workforce reductions, contractstermination costs and asset write-offs due to the exit activities. We recorded a restructuring charge of $1.0 million and $0.8 million for the years endedDecember 31, 2020 and December 31, 2021, respectively. In addition to the restructuring costs incurred to date, we have charged $1.2 million of cumulativetranslation adjustments against net income (loss) and an approximately $0.8 million of tax benefit was realized upon liquidation of these foreign entities.DP Engineering RestructuringDuring the third quarter of 2019, we implemented a restructuring plan as a result of the work suspension of DP Engineering’s largest customer and subsequentnotification on August 6, 2019 that the EOC contract was being terminated. Accordingly, we took the necessary measures to reduce DP Engineering’sworkforce by approximately 12 full-time employees and terminated one of its office leases early resulting in a one-time cost of $0.3 million being paid in thethird quarter of 2019. As a result of this plan, we incurred $0.2 million of restructuring costs to align the workforce to the expected level of business for theyears ended December 31, 2020.Lease abandonmentAs of December 31, 2019, management decided to cease-use and abandoned a portion of several operating lease right of use lease assets in a long idled spacein our Sykesville office and in DP Engineering’s Fort Worth office. This was decided as part of the on-going international restructuring plans to right size theorganization. Management determined the square footage which would remain in use and took steps to ensure the abandoned space was separated from theremaining in use space, end access of all employees to the abandoned sections, and remove any remaining office furniture assets. We applied the abandonmentguidance in ASC 360-10-35. We believe “abandonment” means ceasing to use the underlying asset and lacking either the intent or the ability to sublease theunderlying asset. Accordingly, lease abandonment restructuring charges incurred relating to the right of use assets for the year ended December 31, 2020totaled $1.5 million. No additional charges were incurred for the year ended December 31, 2021.60The following table shows the abandoned square footage and right of use asset details: Sykesville Fort Worth Total Square Ft in use December 1, 2019 36,549 19,871 56,420 Square Ft in use December 31, 2019 14,636 9,936 24,572 Abandoned Square Ft 21,913 9,936 31,849 (in thousands) Pre-Abandonment ROU Balance $1,474 $1,291 $2,765 Post-Abandonment Balance 590 646 1,236 Abandonment ROU $884 $646 $1,529 The following table shows the total restructuring costs: Total 2021Restructuring Costs Total 2020Restructuring Costs Restructuring Costs Lease termination costs $(10) $- International restructuring 808 1,119 Employee termination benefits - 178 Total $798 $1,297 Expected Restructuring CostsWe expect no additional restructuring costs under the international restructuring plan. As a part of the DP restructuring, the right sizing effort had led to thelease abandonment and related impairment as mentioned above. In a continuing effort to align our workforce and by extension the available workspace, weexpect future restructuring as we continue to migrate out of the Sykesville office. At this time management is unable to estimate the ultimate restructuring costsor timeline over which these costs will be recognized.61Table of Contents7. Goodwill and Intangible AssetsDuring the three months ended March 31, 2020, we recognized an impairment charge of $4.3 million of certain intangible assets as a result of the valuationanalysis performed. The need for the valuation analysis was triggered by the macroeconomic impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on our operations. Thisanalysis did not indicate impairment of goodwill.Our Step 1 goodwill impairment analysis includes the use of a discounted cash flow model that requires management to make assumptions regarding estimatesof growth rates used to forecast revenue, operating margin and terminal value as well as determining the appropriate risk-adjusted discount rates and otherfactors that impact fair value determinations.We monitor operating results and events and circumstances that may indicate potential impairment of intangible assets. We perform an annual intangible assetsimpairment analysis at the year end, which includes the use of undiscounted cash flow and discounted cash flow models that requires management to makeassumptions regarding estimates of growth rates used to forecast revenue, operating margin and terminal value as well as determining the appropriate riskadjusted discount rates and other factors that impact fair value determinations. The current assessment has no indication of impairment.Management determined no additional triggering impact occurred during the year ended December 31, 2021.The following table shows the gross carrying amount and accumulated amortization of definite-lived intangible assets:(in thousands) As of December 31, 2021 Gross CarryingAmount AccumulatedAmortization Net Amortized intangible assets: Customer relationships $8,628 $(6,432) $2,196 Trade names 1,689 (1,108) 581 Developed technology 471 (471) - Non-contractual customer relationships 433 (433) - Noncompete agreement 527 (429) 98 Alliance agreement 527 (382) 145 Others 167 (167) - Total $12,442 $(9,422) $3,020 (in thousands) As of December 31, 2020 GrossCarryingAmount AccumulatedAmortization Impact ofImpairment Net Amortized intangible assets: Customer relationships $11,730 $(5,504) $(3,102) $3,124 Trade names 2,467 (1,020) (778) 669 Developed technology 471 (471) - - Non-contractual customer relationships 433 (433) - - Noncompete agreement 949 (336) (422) 191 Alliance agreement 527 (277) - 250 Others 167 (167) - - Total $16,744 $(8,208) $(4,302) $4,234 62Amortization expense related to definite-lived intangible assets totaled 1.2 million and $1.9 million for the years ended December 31, 2021 and 2020,respectively. The following table shows the estimated amortization expense of the definite-lived intangible assets for the next five years:(in thousands) Years ended December 31: 2022 $910 2023 640 2024 435 2025 334 2026 266 Thereafter 435 $3,020 GoodwillThere were no changes in goodwill during 2019 to 2020 and 2020 to 2021:(in thousands) Goodwill Impairment Net Performance Improvement Solutions $8,278 $(3,370) $4,908 Workforce Solutions 8,431 - 8,431 Net book value at December 31, 2021 $16,709 $(3,370) $13,339 8. Contract ReceivablesContract receivables represent our unconditional rights to consideration due from a broad base of both domestic and international customers. Net contractreceivables are considered to be collectible within twelve months.Recoverable costs and accrued profit not billed represent costs incurred and associated profit accrued on contracts that will become billable upon futuremilestones or completion of contracts. The components of contract receivables are as follows:(in thousands) December 31, 2021 2020 Billed receivables $6,124 $5,694 Unbilled receivables 6,143 5,160 Allowance for doubtful accounts (1,010) (360)Total contract receivables, net $11,257 $10,494 Management reviews collectability of receivables periodically and records an allowance for doubtful accounts to reduce our receivables to their net realizablevalue when it is probable that we will not be able to collect all amounts due according to the contractual terms of the receivable. The allowance for doubtfulaccounts is based on historical trends of past due accounts, write-offs, and specific identification and review of customer accounts. During the years endedDecember 31, 2021 and 2020, we recorded bad debt expense of $678 thousand and $103 thousand, respectively. Included in the current year provision is animpairment of unbilled receivables of $824 thousand related to a customer contract with our GSE Beijing entity offset by $133 thousand recovery of bad debtfrom previously written off balances.During January 2022, we invoiced $2.1 million of the unbilled amounts related to the balance at December 31, 2021.63Table of ContentsThe activity in the allowance for doubtful accounts is as follows:(in thousands) As of and for the Years ended December 31, 2021 2020 Beginning balance $360 $458 Current year (recovery) provision 678 103 Current year write-offs (28) (201)Ending balance $1,010 $360 9. Prepaid Expenses and Other Current AssetsPrepaid expenses and other current assets consist of the following:(in thousands) December 31, 2021 2020 Income tax receivable $129 $136 Prepaid expenses 933 883 Other current assets 4,200 535 Total $5,262 $1,554 Other current assets primarily include Employee Retention Credits not yet received as of December 31, 2021. Subsequent to the year end, we received theemployee retention tax credit refunds of $1.1 million, which was included in the other current assets balance at December 31, 2021. Prepaid expenses primarilyinclude prepayment for insurance and other subscription-based services.10. Equipment, Software and Leasehold ImprovementsEquipment, software and leasehold improvements, net consist of the following:(in thousands) December 31, 2021 2020 Computer and equipment $2,270 $2,229 Software 2,150 1,695 Leasehold improvements 659 660 Furniture and fixtures 839 848 5,918 5,432 Accumulated depreciation (5,079) (4,816)Equipment, software and leasehold improvements, net $839 $616 Depreciation expense was $0.3 million and $0.3 million for the years ended December 31, 2021 and 2020, respectively. Capitalization of internal-use softwarecost of $0.5 million related to the ongoing systems upgrade and implementation effort were recorded in software for the twelve months ended December 31,2021.11. Product WarrantyAccrued warrantyFor contracts that contain a warranty provision, we provide an accrual for estimated future warranty costs based on historical experience and projected claims.Our contracts may contain warranty provisions ranging from one year to five years. The current portion of the accrued warranty is presented separately on theconsolidated balance sheets within current liabilities whereas the noncurrent portion is included in other liabilities.64The activity in the accrued warranty accounts is as follows:(in thousands) As of and for the years ended December 31, 2021 2020 Beginning balance $922 $1,323 Current year provision (43) (205) Current year claims (133) (203) Currency adjustment 2 7 Ending balance $748 $922 The current and non-current warranty balance is as follows: December 31, 2021 2020 Current $667 $665 Non-current 81 257 Total Warranty $748 $922 12. Fair Value of Financial InstrumentsASC 820, Fair Value Measurement (ASC 820) defines fair value as the exchange price that would be received for an asset or paid to transfer a liability (an exitprice) in the principal or most advantageous market for the asset or liability in an orderly transaction between market participants on the measurement date.ASC 820 also establishes a fair value hierarchy which requires an entity to maximize the use of observable inputs and minimize the use of unobservable inputswhen measuring fair value.The levels of the fair value hierarchy established by ASC 820 are:Level 1: inputs are quoted prices, unadjusted, in active markets for identical assets or liabilities that the reporting entity has the ability to access at themeasurement date.Level 2: inputs are other than quoted prices included within Level 1 that are observable for the asset or liability, either directly or indirectly. A Level 2 inputmust be observable for substantially the full term of the asset or liability.Level 3: inputs are unobservable and reflect the reporting entity’s own assumptions about the assumptions that market participants would use in pricing theasset or liability.As of December 31, 2021 and 2020, we considered the recorded value of certain of our financial assets and liabilities, which consist primarily of cash and cashequivalents, contract receivable and accounts payable, to approximate fair value based upon their short-term nature.During the years ended December 31, 2021 and 2020, we did not have any transfers into or out of Level 3. The following table presents assets measured at fairvalue at December 31, 2021: Quoted Pricesin Active Marketsfor Identical Assets SignificantOther ObservableInputs SignificantUnobservableInputs (in thousands) (Level 1) (Level 2) (Level 3) Total Money market funds $15 $- $- $15 Total assets $15 $- $- $15 65The following table presents assets measured at fair value at December 31, 2020: Quoted Pricesin Active Marketsfor Identical Assets SignificantOther ObservableInputs SignificantUnobservableInputs (in thousands) (Level 1) (Level 2) (Level 3) Total Money market funds $435 $- $- $435 Total assets $435 $- $- $435 13. DebtOn December 29, 2016, we entered a 3-year $5.0 million revolving line of credit facility (“RLOC”) with the Citizens Bank, N.A. (the “Bank”) to fund generalworking capital needs and acquisitions. On May 11, 2018, we entered into the Amended and Restated Credit and Security Agreement (the “Credit Agreement”or the “Credit Facility”) to (a) expand the RLOC to include a letter of credit sub-facility and not be subject to a borrowing base and (b) to add a $25.0 millionterm loan facility, available to finance permitted acquisitions over the following 18 months. The credit facility was subject to certain financial covenants andreporting requirements and was scheduled to mature on May 11, 2023 and accrue interest at the USD LIBOR, plus a margin that varies depending on ouroverall leverage ratio. The RLOC had required monthly payments of only interest, with principal due at maturity, while our term loan draws required monthlypayments of principal and interest based on an amortization schedule. Our obligations under the Credit Agreement are guaranteed by our wholly ownedsubsidiaries, Hyperspring, Absolute, True North, DP Engineering and by any future material domestic subsidiaries (collectively, the “Guarantors”). Wesubsequently amended and ratified the Credit Agreement a number of times. More recently, during 2020, the COVID-19 pandemic impacted our operations andour projected ability to comply with certain financial covenants. As such, we amended the credit facility at various dates in 2020 to revise our fixed charge ratioand leverage ratio requirements as well as our Adjusted EBITDA requirement. In exchange for relaxed covenants or waivers of covenants for certain periods,we were required by the Bank to curtail our term debt, and as a part of the Eighth Amendment and Reaffirmation Agreement, entered into in June of 2020, werepaid the entire outstanding balance on the term loan facility.Due to a projected violation of the leverage ratio at the end of the first quarter, we signed the Ninth Amendment and Reaffirmation Agreement with an effectivedate of March 29, 2021. Pursuant to the Ninth Amendment and Reaffirmation Agreement, the Bank waived the fixed charge coverage ratio and leverage ratiofor the quarters ending March 31 and June 30, 2021, and we agreed, for each quarter thereafter, that the fixed charge coverage ratio shall not be less than 1.10to 1.00. In addition, we agreed to not exceed a maximum leverage ratio starting on September 30, 2021 as follows: (i) 3.25 to 1.00 for the period endingSeptember 30, 2021; (ii) 3.00 to 1.00 for the period ending on December 31, 2021, (iii) 2.75 to 1.00 for the period ending March 31, 2022; (iv) 2.50 to 1.00 forthe period ending June 30, 2022 and (v) 2.00 to 1.00 for the periods ending September 30, 2022 and each December 31st, March 31st, June 30th and September30th thereafter. We were also required to maintain a minimum of $2.5 million in aggregate USA liquidity. As part of the amendment, we agreed, at closing, (i)to make a $500,000 pay down of RLOC; (ii) RLOC commitment to be reduced to $4.25 million; and (iii) $0.5 million of RLOC will only be available forissuance of Letters of Credit. We also agreed to pay $0.5 million to reduce RLOC to $3.75 million by June 30, 2021 and to $3.5 million by September 30,2021. Commencing December 31, 2021 and on the last day of each quarter, we will pay $75,000 to reduce the RLOC. We incurred $25,000 fees related to thisamendment during the year ended December 31, 2021.66Table of ContentsFollowing the Ninth Amendment and Reaffirmation Agreement, due to Q3 2021 violations of the leverage ratio covenant, we signed the Tenth Amendment andReaffirmation Agreement with an effective date of November 12, 2021, with our bank to waive the fixed charge coverage ratio and leverage ratio for thequarters ending September 30 and December 31, 2021, and we agreed, (i) interest on the outstanding principal amount of the RLOC shall accrue at the interestrate in effect for the RLOC from time to time, but the interest due and payable on the RLOC on each Interest Payment Date shall be determined by subtractingseventy-five (75) basis points from the Applicable Margin and (ii) the seventy-five (75) basis points of accrued interest on the RLOC not paid on any InterestPayment Date pursuant to clause (i) above shall be due and payable on the Termination Date or the date of payment in full of the RLOC. RLOC Amount”means (i) $3,500,000 (ii) on each date a payment in the amount of $250,000 is made pursuant to Subsection 2.1.5(d), the RLOC Amount immediately prior tosuch payment reduced by $250,000 and (iii) on March 31, 2022 and on each June 30, September 30, December 31 and March 31 thereafter, the RLOC Amountimmediately prior to each such date reduced by $37,500. In addition, we agreed, by December 31, 2021, we will pay the Bank $250,000 to be applied to theprincipal amount outstanding under the RLOC. Commencing on March 31, 2022 and on each June 30, September 30, December 31 and March 31 thereafter,we will pay the Bank $75,000 to be applied to the principal amount outstanding under the RLOC. In addition, within the fifth (5th) Business Day after we havereceived, subsequent to November 1, 2021, Employee Retention Credits in an aggregate amount not less than $500,000, we will pay the Bank $250,000 to beapplied to the principal amount outstanding under the RLOC. We are also required to maintain a minimum of $2.25 million in aggregate USA liquidity. Weincurred $15 thousand of amendment fee related to this amendment.On February 23, 2022, we entered into a Securities Purchase Agreement with Lind Global Fund II LP (“Lind Global”), pursuant to which we issued to LindGlobal a two-year, secured, interest-free convertible promissory note to pay off the Revolving Line of Credit balance with Citizens Bank (See Note 24).Revolving Line of Credit (“RLOC”)As of December 31, 2021, we had outstanding borrowings of $1.8 million under the RLOC and four letters of credit totaling $1.1 million outstanding to certainof our customers. The total borrowing capacity under the RLOC was $3.25 million as of December 31, 2021. After consideration of letters of credit and the$0.5 million reserved for issuance of new letters of credit, there was no amount available for borrowing under the RLOC.Using proceeds from the Convertible Note (further described in Note 24), we repaid in full, all outstanding indebtedness owed to Citizens, and the Amendedand Restated Credit and Security Agreement between us, our subsidiaries, and Citizens has been terminated. We will continue to maintain a cash managementaccount and certain letters of credit with Citizens and, accordingly, have entered into a certain Cash Management Agreement with Citizens, as well as certainCash Pledge Agreements in amounts corresponding to the current outstanding letters of credits with customers (as described above).14. Derivative InstrumentsIn the normal course of business, our operations are exposed to fluctuations in foreign currency values and interest rate changes. We may seek to control aportion of these risks through a risk management program that includes the use of derivative instruments.Foreign Currency Risk ManagementOur foreign currency denominated contract receivables, billings in excess of revenue earned and subcontractor accruals that are related to the outstandingforeign exchange contracts are remeasured at the end of each period into our functional currency, using the current exchange rate at the end of the period. Thegain or loss resulting from such remeasurement is also included in loss on derivative instruments, net in the consolidated statements of operations.We utilize foreign currency exchange contracts to manage market risks associated with fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates and to minimize creditexposure by limiting counterparties to nationally recognized financial institutions.As of December 31, 2021, we had no foreign exchange contracts outstanding.Interest Rate Risk ManagementFor the periods presented, we did not elect to designate any of our derivative contracts as hedges. Changes in the fair value of the derivative contracts areincluded in loss on derivative instruments, net in the consolidated statements of operations.67Table of ContentsFor the years ended December 31, 2021 and 2020, we recognized a net (loss) gain on its derivative instruments as outlined below: Years ended December 31, (in thousands) 2021 2020 Foreign exchange contracts- change in fair value $- $17 Interest rate swap - change in fair value - (49)Remeasurement of related contract receivables and billings in excess of revenue earned 19 15 $19 $(17)15. Income TaxesThe consolidated income before income taxes, by domestic and foreign sources, is as follows:(in thousands) Years ended December 31, 2021 2020 Domestic $13,351 $(13,834)Foreign (2,581) 3,652 Total $10,770 $(10,182)The provision (benefit) for income taxes is as follows:(in thousands) Years ended December 31, 2021 2020 Current: Federal $(75) $3 State 74 67 Foreign 71 285 Subtotal 70 355 Deferred: Federal 48 - State 45 - Foreign - - Subtotal 93 - Total $163 $355 The effective income tax rate for the years ended December 31, 2021 and 2020 differed from the statutory federal income tax rate as presented below: Effective Tax Rate percentage (%) Years ended December 31, 2021 2020 Statutory federal income tax rate 21.0% 21.0%State income taxes, net of federal tax benefit 2.1% 3.7%Effect of foreign operations (0.2)% (0.9)%Effect of foreign restructuring 2.3% (6.7)%Change in valuation allowance 2.3% (15.6)%PPP Loan Forgiveness (19.5)% 0.0%Meals and Entertainment 0.0% (0.4)%Stock-based compensation 1.0% (2.2)%GILTI Inclusion 0.0% (0.2)%Uncertain Tax Positions (7.5)% (2.5)%Prior year reconciling items 0.0% 0.3%Effective tax rate 1.5% (3.5)%68Table of ContentsThe difference between the effective rate and statutory rate in 2021 primarily resulted from a change in valuation allowance, permanent differences, includingPPP Loan forgiveness and foreign restructuring, accruals related to uncertain tax positions, the tax impact of stock compensation forfeitures, foreign taxes, andstate tax expense.Deferred income taxes arise from temporary differences between the tax bases of assets and liabilities and their reported amounts in the consolidated financialstatements. A summary of the tax effect of the significant components of the deferred income tax assets and liabilities is as follows:(in thousands) As of December 31, 2021 2020 Deferred tax assets: Net operating loss carryforwards $6,180 $5,406 Accruals 122 387 Reserves 434 309 Alternative minimum tax credit carryforwards - 69 Stock-based compensation expense 172 251 Intangible assets 2,368 2,362 Goodwill 892 995 Operating lease liability 472 747 Fixed Assets 29 - Other 243 271 Total deferred tax asset 10,912 10,797 Valuation allowance (9,410) (9,165)Total deferred tax asset less valuation allowance 1,502 1,632 Deferred tax liabilities: Software development costs (135) (164)Fixed assets - (22)Indefinite-lived intangibles (1,190) (967)Operating lease - right of use asset (253) (379)Other (17) (100)Total deferred tax liability (1,595) (1,632) Net deferred tax liability $(93) $- We file tax returns in the United States federal jurisdiction and in several state and foreign jurisdictions. Because of the net operating loss carryforwards, we aresubject to U.S. federal and state income tax examinations for tax years 2000, and forward, and is subject to foreign tax examinations by tax authorities for theyears 2016 and forward. Open tax years related to state and foreign jurisdictions remain subject to examination but are not considered material to our financialposition, results of operations or cash flows.In assessing the ability to realize our deferred tax assets, management considers whether it is more likely than not that some or all of the deferred tax assets willnot be realized. Our ability to realize its deferred tax assets depends primarily upon the preponderance of positive evidence that could be demonstrated bythree-year cumulative positive earnings, reversal of existing deferred temporary differences, and generation of sufficient future taxable income to allow for theutilization of deductible temporary differences.As of each reporting date, our management considers new evidence, both positive and negative, that could impact management's view with regard to futurerealization of deferred tax assets to estimate if sufficient future taxable income will be generated to use the existing deferred tax assets. This analysis isperformed on a jurisdiction by jurisdiction basis.We performed an analysis of the valuation allowance position for its worldwide deferred tax assets and determined that a valuation allowance continues to benecessary on its U.S. and foreign deferred tax assets at December 31, 2021.69Table of ContentsAs of December 31, 2021, our largest deferred tax asset was $6.2 million of net operating losses. It primarily relates to a U.S. net operating loss carryforward of$6.2 million; $4.5 million of the net operating loss carryforward expires in various amounts between 2023 and 2037; $1.7 million of the net operating losscarryforward is an indefinite-lived deferred tax asset. We do not believe that it is more likely than not that we will be able to realize its deferred tax assets for itsU.S. and foreign deferred tax assets at December 31, 2021 and therefore we have maintained a $9.4 million valuation allowance for our net deferred tax assets.The Company has a deferred tax liability in the amount of $93 thousand at December 31, 2021 related to the portion of Goodwill which cannot be offset bydeferred tax assets.As of December 31, 2021 and 2020, our consolidated cash and cash equivalents totaled $3.6 million and $6.7 million, respectively, including cash and cashequivalents held at non-U.S. entities totaling $1.2 million and $3.1 million, respectively. The non-U.S. entities include operating subsidiaries located in China.We do not assert permanent reinvestment in China. Accordingly, we analyzed the cumulative earnings and profits and determined the US deferred liabilityrelated to this position is immaterial.Uncertain Tax PositionsDuring 2021 and 2020, we recorded tax liabilities for certain foreign tax contingencies. We recorded these uncertain tax positions in other current liabilities onthe consolidated balance sheets.The following table outlines our uncertain tax liabilities, including accrued interest and penalties for each jurisdiction: China Ukraine South Korea UK U.S. (in thousands) Tax InterestandPenalties Tax InterestandPenalties Tax InterestandPenalties Tax InterestandPenalties Tax InterestandPenalties Total Balance, January 1, 2020 $201 $318 $78 $60 $554 $178 $- $- $793 $6 $2,188 Increases 13 60 - - 128 96 45 21 - 3 366 Decreases - - (64) (50) - - - - - - (114)Balance, December 31, 2020 $214 $378 $14 $10 $682 $274 $45 $21 $793 $9 $2,440 Increases 6 50 - - - 61 - 9 - 3 129 Decreases - - (14) (10) (38) - - - (793) (12) (867)Balance, December 31, 2021 $220 $428 $- $- $644 $335 $45 $30 $- $- $1,702 70Table of Contents16. Capital StockThe total authorized shares of capital stock we are authorized to issue equals 62,000,000 total shares of stock of which 60,000,000 are designated as commonstock and 2,000,000 are designated as preferred stock. Our Board of Directors has the authority to establish one or more classes of preferred stock and todetermine, within any class of preferred stock, the preferences, rights and other terms of such class.As of December 31, 2021, the Company has reserved 7,500,000 shares of common stock for issuance; zero are reserved for shares upon exercise of outstandingstock options and 1,595,665 are reserved for shares upon vesting of restricted stock units. There are 1,266,479 shares available for future grants under the Plan(as further defined below).17. Stock-Based CompensationLong-term incentive planDuring 1995, we established the 1995 Long-Term Incentive Stock Option Plan (the “Plan”), which permits the granting of stock options (including incentivestock options and nonqualified stock options) stock appreciation rights, restricted or unrestricted stock awards, phantom stock, performance awards or anycombination of these to employees, directors or consultants. The Plan was amended and restated effective April 22, 2016 and expires on April 21, 2026; thetotal number of shares that could be issued under the Plan is 7,500,000. As of December 31, 2021, 4,637,856 shares have been issued under the Plan, zerostock options and 1,595,665 restricted stock units (RSUs) were outstanding under the Plan, while 1,266,479 shares remain for future grants under the Plan.We recognize compensation expense on a pro rata straight-line basis over the requisite service period for stock-based compensation awards with both gradedand cliff vesting terms. We recognize the cumulative effect of a change in the number of awards expected to vest in compensation expense in the period ofchange. We have not capitalized any portion of its stock-based compensation. Our forfeiture rate is based on actuals.During the years ended December 31, 2021 and 2020, we recognized $1.0 million and $0.4 million, respectively, of stock-based compensation expense underthe fair value method. Accordingly, we recognized associated deferred income tax expense (benefits) of $111 thousand and $220 thousand before valuationallowance, respectively, during the years ended December 31, 2021 and 2020. During the years ended December 31, 2021 and 2020, there were no stock-basedcompensation expense related to the change in fair value of cash-settled RSUs, which we account for as a liability.On February 23, 2022, we entered into a Securities Purchase Agreement with Lind Global Fund II LP (“Lind Global”), pursuant to which we issued to LindGlobal a two-year, secured, interest-free convertible promissory note in the amount of $5.75 million (the “Convertible Note”) and a common stock purchasewarrant to acquire 1,283,732 shares of our common stock (the “Warrant”) (See Note 24).Restricted Stock UnitsDuring the years ended December 31, 2021 and 2020, we issued RSUs to employees which vest upon the achievement of specific market-based or time-basedmeasures. The fair value for RSU's is calculated based on the stock price on the grant date and expensed ratably over the requisite service period as market-based results achieved, which ranges between one year and five years. The following table summarizes the information about vested and unvested restrictedstock units for the years ended December 31, 2021 and 2020. Number of Shares Weighted AverageFair Value Nonvested RSUs at January 1, 2020 1,973,725 $1.49 RSUs granted 689,000 1.09 RSUs forfeited (534,052) 2.49 RSUs vested (408,941) 1.67 Nonvested RSUs at December 31, 2020 1,719,732 $1.36 Nonvested RSUs at January 1, 2021 1,719,732 $1.36 RSUs granted 983,661 1.69 RSUs forfeited (631,367) 0.88 RSUs vested (476,361) 1.71 Nonvested RSUs at December 31, 2021 1,595,665 $1.77 71Table of ContentsAs of December 31, 2021, we had $0.7 million of unrecognized compensation expense related to the RSUs expected to be recognized on a pro-rata straight linebasis over a weighted average remaining service period of approximately 1.2 years.18. LeasesWe have lease agreements with lease and non-lease components, which are accounted for as a single lease. We apply a portfolio approach to effectively accountfor the operating lease ROU assets and liabilities.Lease contracts are evaluated at inception to determine whether they contain a lease and whether we obtain the right to control an identified asset. Thefollowing table summarizes the classification of operating ROU assets and lease liabilities on the consolidated balance sheets (in thousands):Operating Leases Classification December 31, 2021 December 31, 2020 Leased Assets Operating lease - right of use assets Long term assets $1,200 $1,562 Lease Liabilities Operating lease liabilities - Current Other current liabilities 1,205 1,138 Operating lease liabilities Long term liabilities 790 1,831 $1,995 $2,969 During September 2020, we notified the landlord of our consolidated subsidiary Absolute’s home office of our decision not to renew the lease.We executed a sublease agreement with a tenant to sublease 850 square feet from the Sykesville office space on September 13, 2021. This agreement is inaddition to the previous sublease for 3,650 square feet entered into on May 1, 2019. The addition of the second sublease is for a portion of the space previouslyabandoned in December 2019. The sublease does not relieve us of our primary lease obligation. The lessor agreements are all considered operating leases,maintaining the historical classification of the underlying lease. We do not recognize any underlying assets for the subleases as a lessor of operating leases. Thenet amount received from the sublease is recorded within selling, general and administrative expenses.The table below summarizes the lease income and expenses recorded in the consolidated statements of operations incurred year to date ended December 31,2021, (in thousands):Lease Cost Classification Twelve months endedDecember 31, 2021 Operating lease cost (1) Selling, general and administrative expenses $728 Short-term leases costs (2) Selling, general and administrative expenses 60 Sublease income (3) Selling, general and administrative expenses (115)Net lease cost $673 (1) Includes variable lease costs which are immaterial.(2) Include leases maturing less than twelve months from the report date.(3) Sublease portfolio consists of 2 tenants, which sublease parts of our principal executive office located at 1332 Londontown Blvd, Suite 200, Sykesville, MD.72Table of ContentsWe are obligated under certain noncancelable operating leases for office facilities and equipment. Future minimum lease payments under noncancelableoperating leases as of December 31, 2021 are as follows:(in thousands) Gross Future Minimum Lease Payments 2022 $1,280 2023 675 2024 122 2025 10 2026 3 Thereafter - Total $2,090 Less: Interest 95 Present value of lease payments $1,995 We have calculated the weighted-average remaining lease term, presented in years below, and the weighted-average discount rate for our operating leases. Asnoted in our lease accounting policy, we use the incremental borrowing rate as the lease discount rate:Lease Term and Discount Rate Twelve months endedDecember 31, 2021 Weighted-average remaining lease term (years) Operating leases 1.80 Weighted-average discount rate Operating leases 5.00%The table below sets out the classification of lease payments in the consolidated statements of cash flows. There was no right-of-use assets obtained inexchange for operating lease liabilities represent new operating leases obtained through our business combination during the year to date ended December 31,2021:(in thousands) Twelve months ended December 31, Cash paid for amounts included in measurement of liabilities 2021 2020 Cash paid for amounts included in measurement of liabilities $1,326 $1,314 Right-of-use assets obtained in exchange for new operating lease liabilities $- $- 19. Employee BenefitsWe have a qualified defined contribution plan that covers all U.S. employees under Section 401(k) of the Internal Revenue Code. Under this plan, ourstipulated basic contribution matches a portion of the participants’ contributions based upon a defined schedule for employee’s in our PerformanceImprovement Solutions segment. Our contributions to the plan were approximately $290 thousand and $260 thousand for the years ended December 31, 2021and 2020, respectively.20. Segment InformationWe have two reportable business segments.The Performance Improvement Solutions segment provides simulation, training and engineering products and services delivered across the breadth ofindustries we serve. Solutions include simulation for both training and engineering applications. Examples of engineering services include, but are not limitedto, plant design verification and validation, thermal performance evaluation and optimization programs, and engineering programs for plants for ASME codeand ASME Section XI. We provide these services across all market segments through our Performance, True North, and DP Engineering subsidiaries. Exampletraining applications include turnkey and custom training services. Contract terms are typically less than two years.73Table of ContentsThe Workforce Solutions segment provides specialized workforce solutions primarily to the nuclear industry, working at clients’ facilities. This business ismanaged through our Hyperspring and Absolute subsidiaries. The business model, management focus, margins and other factors clearly separate this businessline from the rest of our products and services portfolio.The following table sets forth the revenue and operating results attributable to each reportable segment and includes a reconciliation of segment revenue toconsolidated revenue and operating results to consolidated income before income tax expense (benefit). Inter-segment revenue is eliminated in consolidationand is not significant.(in thousands) Years ended December 31, 2021 2020 Revenue: Performance Improvement Solutions $28,140 $32,790 Workforce Solutions 27,043 24,830 Total revenue $55,183 $57,620 Operating loss Performance Improvement Solutions $(4,422) $(2,683)Workforce Solutions (1,549) (2,076)Litigation - (477)Loss on impairment (3) (4,302) Operating loss $(5,974) $(9,538) Interest expense (159) (623)Gain (loss) on derivative instruments, net 19 (17)Other income (expense), net 16,884 (4)Income (loss) before taxes $10,770 $(10,182)Additional information relating to segments is as follows:(in thousands) December 31, 2021 2020 Performance Improvement Solutions $23,742 $25,845 Workforce Solutions 15,309 13,345 Total assets $39,051 $39,190 74Table of ContentsFor the years ended December 31, 2021 and 2020, 91% and 89%, respectively, of our consolidated revenue was from customers in the nuclear power industry.We design, develop and deliver business and technology solutions to the energy industry worldwide. Revenue, operating income (loss) and total assets for ourUnited States, European, and Asian subsidiaries as of and for the years ended December 31, 2021 and 2020 are as follows:(in thousands) Year ended December 31, 2021 United States Europe Asia Eliminations Consolidated Revenue $54,203 $- $980 $- $55,183 Transfers between geographic locations 386 - 88 (474) - Total revenue $54,589 $- $1,068 $(474) $55,183 Operating income (loss) $(3,351) $(1,746) $(877) $- $(5,974)Total assets, at December 31 $170,116 $- $3,119 $(134,184) $39,051 (in thousands) Year ended December 31, 2020 United States Europe Asia Eliminations Consolidated Revenue $56,628 $- $992 $- $57,620 Transfers between geographic locations 465 - 31 (496) - Total revenue $57,093 $- $1,023 $(496) $57,620 Operating income (loss) $(13,041) $3,231 $272 $- $(9,538)Total assets, at December 31 $161,672 $2,679 $3,191 $(128,352) $39,190 Revenues by geographic location above are attributed to the contracting entity. Therefore, revenues from a foreign customer that contracted directly with ourU.S. entity are included in revenues from the United States. All revenues in Asia were attributable to our Chinese subsidiary.Alternatively, revenue from customers domiciled in foreign countries were approximately 12% and 17%, of our consolidated 2021 and 2020 revenue,respectively. Revenue from foreign countries where our customers reside were all individually less than 10% of our consolidated revenue during 2021 and2020.21. Supplemental Disclosure of Cash Flow Information(in thousands) Year ended December 31, 2021 2020 Cash paid for interest and income taxes: Interest $118 $532 Income taxes $129 $194 Noncash activity of financing insurance premium $890 $813 22. Non-consolidated Variable Interest EntityThrough our wholly owned subsidiary, DP Engineering, we effectively hold a 48% membership interest in DP-NXA Consultants LLC (“DP-NXA”).DP-NXA was established to provide industrial services that include civil, structural, architectural, electrical, fire protection, plumbing, mechanical consultingengineering services to customers. DP-NXA sub-contracts their work to its two owners, NXA Consultants LLC (“NXA”), which owns 52% of the entity, andDP Engineering. DP Engineering and NXA contributed $48 thousand and $52 thousand, respectively, for 48% and 52% interest in DP-NXA. DP Engineeringrecorded the contributed cash as an equity investment.We evaluated the nature of DP Engineering’s investment in DP-NXA and determined that DP-NXA is a variable interest entity (“VIE”). Since we do not havethe power to direct activities that most significantly impact DP-NXA, we cannot be DP-NXA’s primary beneficiary. Furthermore, we concluded that we do nothold a controlling financial interest in DP-NXA since NXA, the VIE’s majority owner, makes all operational and business decisions. We account for DPEngineering’s investment in DP-NXA using the equity method of accounting due to the fact DP Engineering exerts significant influence with its 48% ofmembership interest, but does not control the financial and operating decisions.Our maximum exposure to any losses incurred by DP-NXA is limited to DP Engineering’s investment. As of December 31, 2021, DP Engineering has notmade any additional contributions to DP-NXA and we believe DP Engineering’s maximum exposure to any losses incurred by DP-NXA was not material. Asof December 31, 2021, we do not have existing guarantee with or to DP-NXA, or any third-party work contracted with it.For the year ended December 31, 2021, the carrying value of the investment in DP-NXA was zero. We do not have any investment income or loss from DP-NXA for the year ended December 31, 2021.75Table of Contents23. Commitments and ContingenciesJoyce v. Absolute Consulting, Inc.On March 29, 2019, a former employee of Absolute Consulting, Inc., filed a putative class action against us and Absolute, Joyce v. Absolute Consulting Inc.,case number 1:19 cv 00868 RDB, in the United States District Court for the District of Maryland. The lawsuit alleged that the plaintiff and certain otheremployees were not properly compensated for overtime hours worked. We were subsequently dismissed from the case, leaving Absolute as the sole defendant.On August 17, 2020, Absolute entered into a settlement agreement with the plaintiffs (the “Settlement Agreement”), with a maximum settlement amount of$1.5 million which required approval by the Court. On September 8, 2020, the Settlement Agreement was approved by the Court, and the case was dismissed,although the parties remain bound by the terms of the Settlement Agreement. On September 29, 2020, we received $952 thousand from a general escrowaccount, originally set up as part of our purchase of Absolute during fiscal year 2017. We presented the loss related to the above-described settlement and thebenefit from the above described proceeds from the release of escrow from the Absolute transaction in, selling, general and administrative expenses, in theamount of $477 thousand for the year ended December 31,2021. Following the Court’s approval, Absolute made an initial payment toward the settlementamount in the amount of $625 thousand, which amount included legal fees. After the expiration of an opt-in notice period, the final cost of settling this case,including plaintiff’s attorney fees was approximately $1.4 million. Approximately $713 thousand of the settlement amount was paid out prior to December 31,2020. Approximately $694 thousand was paid out in 2021. No liability remains as of December 31, 2021.Per ASC 450 Accounting for Contingencies, we review potential items and areas where a loss contingency could arise. In the opinion of management, we arenot a party to any legal proceeding, the outcome of which, in management’s opinion, individually or in the aggregate, would have a material effect on ourconsolidated results of operations, financial position or cash flows, other than as noted above. We expense legal defense costs as incurred.We, from time to time, are involved in litigation in the ordinary course of business. While it is too early to determine the outcome of such matters, managementdoes not expect the resolution of these matters to have a material impact on our financial position or results of operations.24. Subsequent EventsOn February 23, 2022, we entered into a Securities Purchase Agreement with Lind Global Fund II LP (“Lind Global”), pursuant to which we issued to LindGlobal a two-year, secured, interest-free convertible promissory note in the amount of $5.75 million (the “Convertible Note”) and a common stock purchasewarrant to acquire 1,283,732 shares of our common stock (the “Warrant”). The Convertible Note is convertible into our common stock at any time after the earlier of six (6) months from issuance of the Convertible Note or the date theregistration statement is effective. The conversion price of the Convertible Note is equal to $1.94, subject to customary adjustments. The Convertible Note willreach maturity in February of 2024, although we are permitted to prepay the Convertible Note, provided that Lind Global shall have the option to convert up toone third of the outstanding principal of the Convertible Note at a price per share equal to the lessor of the Repayment Share price or the conversion price (asdescribed below). The Convertible Note is guaranteed by each of our subsidiaries and is secured by a first priority lien on all of our assets. The ConvertibleNote is not subject to any financial covenants and events of default under the Convertible Note are limited to events related to payment, certain eventspertaining to the underlying shares of common stock and other customary events including, but not limited to, bankruptcy or insolvency. Upon the occurrenceof an event of default, the Convertible Note will become immediately due and payable, subject to any cure periods described in the Convertible Note, and thecustomer may demand that all or a portion of the outstanding principal amount be converted into shares of common stock at the lower of the then currentconversion price and 80% of the average of the three (3) lowest daily volume-weighted average price (“VWAPs”) during the twenty (20) days prior to deliveryof the conversion notice. If there is a change of control of the Company, Lind Global has the right to require us to prepay the outstanding principal amount ofthe Convertible Note. A portion of the proceeds of the Convertible Note were used to repay, in full, all outstanding indebtedness owed to Citizens, and theAmended and Restated Credit and Security Agreement between us, our subsidiaries, and Citizens was terminated. We will continue to maintain a cashmanagement account and certain letters of credit with Citizens and, accordingly, have entered into a certain Cash Management Agreement with Citizens, aswell as certain Cash Pledge Agreements in amounts corresponding to the current outstanding letters of credits with customers (as described in Note 13).The Warrant entitles Lind Global to purchase up to 1,283,732 shares of our common stock until February 23, 2027, at an exercise price of $1.94 per share,subject to customary adjustments described therein.76Table of ContentsITEM 9.CHANGES IN AND DISAGREEMENTS WITH ACCOUNTANTS ON ACCOUNTING AND FINANCIAL DISCLOSURE.None.ITEM 9A.CONTROLS AND PROCEDURES.(a) Evaluation of Disclosure Controls and ProceduresWe maintain disclosure controls and procedures that are designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed by us in our reports filed or submittedpursuant to the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (the “Exchange Act”), is recorded, processed, summarized and reported within the time periodsspecified in the rules promulgated by the Securities and Exchange Commission’s and the forms and information required to be disclosed by us in such reportsis accumulated and communicated to management, including our Chief Executive Officer (“CEO”), who is our principal executive officer, and our ChiefFinancial Officer (“CFO”), who is our principal financial officer, to allow timely decisions regarding required disclosure. Based on an evaluation of ourdisclosure controls and procedures as of December 31, 2021, our CEO and CFO concluded that, as of such date, our disclosure controls and procedures wereeffective.(b) Management’s Annual Report on Internal Control over Financial ReportingOur management is responsible for establishing and maintaining adequate internal control over financial reporting, as such term is defined in Exchange ActRule 13a-15(f). Our internal control over financial reporting is a process designed by, or under the supervision of, our CEO and CFO, to provide reasonableassurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the preparation of financial statements for external purposes in accordance with generally acceptedaccounting principles.Management, including our CEO and CFO, assessed the effectiveness of our internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2021. In making thisassessment, management used the criteria set forth by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (“COSO”) in Internal Control-Integrated Framework (2013). Based on management’s assessment, management has concluded that our internal control over financial reporting was noteffective as of December 31, 2021 due to the existence of the material weakness in internal control over management review of reconciliations over unbilledreceivables and billings in excess of revenue earned.We evaluated the severity of the identified errors resulting from this material weakness and expanded our analysis to assess if the root cause of the issueimpacted other controls or account balances. We concluded that the material weakness was limited to the reconciliation of the accounts noted above. Nofurther issues were identified through expanded testing. Management recognizes there is a reasonable possibility that a material misstatement of our annual orinterim financial statements might not be prevented or detected timely.77Table of ContentsThrough the work to identify and isolate the errors in our balance sheet reconciliation controls, new procedures have been implemented for the reconciliationsthat failed to establish full documentation for reconciling items and plan their resolution. In concert with remediation, redesign and reperformance of thesereconciliations, we have initiated these new procedures to ensure their continued performance.As a result of the material weakness described above, our CEO and CFO concluded that we did not maintain effective internal control over financial reportingas of December 31, 2021, based on the Internal Control - Integrated Framework (2013) issued by the COSO.(c) Changes in Internal Control over Financial Reporting In connection with the preparation of our consolidated financial statements as of and for the year ended December 31, 2020, we had identified a materialweaknesses in our internal control related to the inadequate design and effectiveness of controls related to the balance sheet reconciliation preparation andreview of our unbilled receivables and billing in excess of revenue earned balances.Through Management's evaluation of controls as of December 31,2021 it was determined that the material weakness related to management's preparation andreview of reconciliations over unbilled receivables and billings in excess of revenue earned were un-remediated. Our plan to remediate the remaining controlweakness includes the hiring of additional skilled personnel to prepare and review reconciliations over unbilled receivables and billings in excess of revenueearned and to continue to enhance our processes to reconcile, review, and evaluate the unbilled receivables and billing in excess of revenue earned accounts ona monthly basis. In the interim, we will utilize members of the financial management team to perform the review of such reconciliations.Other than described above, there were no changes in our internal control over financial reporting identified in connection with the evaluation required by Rule13a-15(d) and 15d-15(d) of the Exchange Act that occurred during the quarter ended December 31, 2021 that has materially affected, or is reasonably likely tomaterially affect, our internal control over financial reporting.ITEM 9B.OTHER INFORMATION.None.ITEM 9C.DISCLOSURE REGARDING FOREIGN JURISDICTIONS THAT PREVENT INSPECTION.Not Applicable. ITEM 10.DIRECTORS, EXECUTIVE OFFICERS AND CORPORATE GOVERNANCE.The information required by this item, including items 401, 405, and 407 of Regulation S-K, is incorporated by reference to the section captioned “Directorsand Executive Officers” in our definitive Proxy Statement for the Annual Meeting of Shareholders and incorporated herein by reference or will be provided inan amendment to this Annual Report on Form 10-K. We have adopted a Conduct of Business Policy that applies to its directors, officers, and employees, including its principal executive officer, and principalfinancial officer. The Conduct of Business Policy is available on our website at www.gses.com. In addition, we have adopted a Code of Ethics for its principalexecutive officer and senior financial officers which is also available on our website. We will post on its website information about any amendment to, orwaiver from, any provision of the Code of Ethics that applies to its principal executive officer, principal financial officer, or principal accounting officer. 78Table of ContentsITEM 11.EXECUTIVE COMPENSATION.The information required by this item will either be set forth under the “Executive Compensation” section in the definitive Proxy Statement for the 2022Annual Meeting of Shareholders and incorporated herein by reference or will be provided in an amendment to this Annual Report on Form 10-K.ITEM 12.SECURITY OWNERSHIP OF CERTAIN BENEFICIAL OWNERS AND MANAGEMENT AND RELATED SHAREHOLDERMATTERS.The information required by this item will be either set forth under the sections captioned “Voting Securities and Principal Holders Thereof,” and “ExecutiveCompensation” in the definitive Proxy Statement for the 2022 Annual Meeting of Shareholders and incorporated herein by reference or will be provided in anamendment to this Annual Report on Form 10-K. The following table sets forth the equity compensation plan information for the year ended December 31, 2021: Plan Category Number ofSecurities tobe Issued UponExercise ofOutstandingOptions,Warrants andRights(a) WeightedAverageExercise PriceofOutstandingOptions,Warrants and Rights(b) Number ofSecuritiesRemainingAvailable forFuture IssuanceUnder EquityCompensationPlans(ExcludingSecurities Reflected inColumn (a))(c) Equity compensation plans approved by security holders Options - $- RSUs 1,595,665 1.77 1,595,665 $1.77 1,266,479 Equity compensation plans not approved by security holders - $- - Total 1,595,665 $1.77 1,266,479 Table above excludes 180,000 RSUs granted under our 1995 Long-Term Incentive Plan that are settled in cash instead of shares.For a description of the material terms of our stock-based compensation plans, see Notes to the consolidated financial statements in Item 8 of this report.79Table of ContentsITEM 13.CERTAIN RELATIONSHIPS AND RELATED TRANSACTIONS AND DIRECTOR INDEPENDENCE.The information required by this item will be either set forth under the “Directors and Executive Officers” section in the definitive Proxy Statement for the2022 Annual Meeting of Shareholders and incorporated herein by reference or will be provided in an amendment to this Annual Report on Form 10-K.ITEM 14.PRINCIPAL ACCOUNTING FEES AND SERVICES.The information required by this item will be either set forth under the “Audit Committee Pre-Approval of Audit and Non-Audit Services” section in thedefinitive Proxy Statement for the 2022 Annual Meeting of Shareholders and incorporated herein by reference or will be provided in an amendment to thisAnnual Report on Form 10-K.ITEM 15.EXHIBITS AND FINANCIAL STATEMENT SCHEDULES.(a) (1) List of Financial StatementsThe following financial statements are included in Item 8:GSE Systems, Inc. and Subsidiaries Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firms (PCAOB ID 57)Consolidated Balance Sheets as of December 31, 2021 and 2020Consolidated Statements of Operations for the years ended December 31, 2021 and 2020Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Loss for the years ended December 31, 2021 and 2020Consolidated Statements of Changes in Shareholders' Equity for the years ended December 31, 2021 and 2020Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows for the years ended December 31, 2021 and 2020Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements(a) (2) List of SchedulesAll other schedules to the consolidated financial statements are omitted as the required information is presented in the consolidated financial statements orrelated notes.(a) (3) List of ExhibitsThe Exhibits which are filed with this report or which are incorporated by reference are set forth in the Exhibit index hereto.80Table of ContentsITEM 16.FORM 10-K SUMMARY.None.ExhibitDescription of Exhibits 2.Plan of acquisition, reorganization, arrangement, liquidation, or succession 2.1Membership Interests Purchase Agreement, dated as of November 14, 2014, by and between Dale Jennings, Paul Abbott, Shawn McKeever andMickey Ellis and GSE Performance Solutions, Inc. Incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 2.1 of GSE Systems, Inc. Form 8-K filed withthe Securities and Exchange Commission on November 17, 2014. 2.2Amendment to Membership Interests Purchase Agreement, dated as of May 13, 2015. Incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.2 of GSESystems, Inc. Form 10-Q filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on May 14, 2015. 2.3Stock Purchase Agreement, dated as of September 20, 2017, by and among GSE Systems, Inc., through its wholly owned subsidiary GSEPerformance Solutions, Inc., Richard and Cynthia Linton (and certain trusts owned thereby) and Absolute Consulting, Inc. Incorporated hereinby reference to Exhibit 2.1 of GSE Systems, Inc. Form 8-K filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on September 20, 2017. 2.4Membership Interest Purchase Agreement, dated as of May 11, 2018, between True North Consulting LLC, Donald R. Horn, Jenny C. Horn,GSE Performance Solutions, Inc., and Donald R. Horn in his capacity as Seller Representative. Incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 2.1of GSE Systems, Inc. Form 8-K filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on May 14, 2018. 2.5Membership Interest Purchase Agreement, dated as of February 15, 2019, between DP Engineering Co. Ltd., Steven L. Pellerin, Christopher A.Davenport, GSE Performance Solutions, Inc., and Steven L. Pellerin in his capacity as Seller Representative. Incorporated herein by referenceto Exhibit 2.1 of GSE Systems, Inc. Form 8-K filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on February 19, 2019. 3.Certificate of Incorporation and Bylaws 3.1Restatement of Certificate of Incorporation dated November 14, 2016. Incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 3.1 of GSE Systems, Inc.Form 10-Q filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on November 14, 2016. 3.2Amendment to the Certificate of Incorporation of GSE Systems, Inc. Incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 3.1 of GSE Systems, Inc.Form 8-K filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on June 15, 2018. 3.3Third Amended and Restated Bylaws of GSE Systems, Inc. Incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 3.2 of GSE Systems, Inc. Form 8-Kfiled with the Securities and Exchange Commission on September 16, 2016. 3.4First Amendment to the Third Amended and Restated Bylaws of GSE Systems, Inc. Incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 3.2 of GSESystems, Inc. Form 8-K filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on June 15, 2018. 10.Material Contracts 10.1Office Lease Agreement between 1332 Londontown, LLC and GSE Systems, Inc. (dated as of February 27, 2008). Incorporated herein byreference to Exhibit 10.1 of GSE Systems, Inc. Form 8-K filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on March 11, 2008. 10.2Amendment of Lease to Office Lease Agreement, dated May 28, 2008. Incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.20 of GSE Systems, Inc.Form 10-K filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on March 19, 2015. 10.3Second Amendment of Lease to Office Lease Agreement, dated July 22, 2010. Incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.21 of GSESystems, Inc. Form 10-K filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on March 19, 2015.81Table of Contents10.4Third Amendment of Lease to Office Lease Agreement, dated May 15, 2012. Incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.22 of GSESystems, Inc. Form 10-K filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on March 19, 2015. 10.5Fourth Amendment of Lease to Office Lease Agreement, dated April 15, 2014. Incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.1 of GSESystems, Inc. Form 10-Q filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on May 15, 2014. 10.6GSE Systems, Inc. 1995 Long-Term Incentive Plan, amended and restated, dated as of March 6, 2014. Incorporated herein by reference toExhibit A of GSE Systems, Inc. Form DEF 14A filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on April 29, 2014.* 10.7Form of Option Agreement Under the GSE Systems, Inc. 1995 Long-Term Incentive Plan. Incorporated herein by reference to GSE Systems,Inc. Form 10-K filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on March 31, 1997. * 10.8Form of Restricted Share Unit Agreement pursuant to the GSE Systems, Inc. 1995 Long-Term Incentive Plan, as amended and restated, datedas of April 22, 2016. Incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.2 of GSE Systems, Inc. Form 10-Q filed with the Securities and ExchangeCommission on November 14, 2016.* 10.9Form of Amendment to Restricted Share Unit Agreement, dated July 1, 2016. Incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 99.8 of GSESystems, Inc. Form 8-K filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on July 1, 2016. * 10.10Employment Agreement, dated July 1, 2016, between GSE Systems, Inc. and Emmett A. Pepe. Incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit99.2 of GSE Systems, Inc. Form 8-K filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on July 5, 2016. * 10.11Amendment to Employment Agreement between Emmett Pepe and GSE Systems, Inc. dated as of June 12, 2017. Incorporated herein byreference to Exhibit 99.4 of GSE Systems, Inc. Form 8-K filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on June 16, 2017.* 10.12Amendment No. 2 to Employment Agreement between GSE Systems, Inc. and Emmett Pepe, dated as of January 11, 2019. Incorporated hereinby reference to Exhibit 99.3 of GSE Systems, Inc. Form 8-K filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on January 11, 2019.* 10.13Employment Agreement between Bahram Meyssami and GSE Systems, Inc. dated as of December 1, 2015. Incorporated herein by reference toExhibit 10.1 of GSE Systems, Inc. Form 10-Q filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on May 15, 2017.* 10.14Amendment to Employment Agreement between Bahram Meyssami and GSE Systems, Inc. dated as of June 12, 2017. Incorporated herein byreference to Exhibit 99.3 of GSE Systems, Inc. Form 8-K filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on June 16, 2017.* 10.15Employment Agreement between Kyle J. Loudermilk and GSE Systems, Inc., dated as of July 1, 2015. Incorporated herein by reference toExhibit 10.1 of GSE Systems, Inc. Form 8-K filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on July 31, 2015. * 10.16Amendment to Employment Agreement between Kyle J. Loudermilk and GSE Systems, Inc., dated as of June 12, 2017. Incorporated herein byreference to Exhibit 99.1 of GSE Systems, Inc. Form 8-K filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on July 1, 2016.* 10.17Amendment No. 2 to Employment Agreement between Kyle Loudermilk and GSE Systems, Inc. dated as of June 12, 2017. Incorporated hereinby reference to Exhibit 99.1 of GSE Systems, Inc. Form 8-K filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on June 16, 2017.* 10.18Amendment No. 3 to Employment Agreement, dated January 11, 2019, between GSE Systems, Inc. and Kyle J. Loudermilk. Incorporatedherein by reference to Exhibit 99.1 of GSE Systems, Inc. Form 8-K filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on January 11, 2019.*82Table of Contents10.19Restricted Share Unit Agreement between Kyle J. Loudermilk and GSE Systems, Inc., dated as of July 1, 2015. Incorporated herein byreference to Exhibit 10.2 of GSE Systems, Inc. Form 8-K filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on July 31, 2015.* 10.20Amendment to Restricted Share Unit Agreement between Kyle J. Loudermilk and GSE Systems, Inc., dated as of July 1, 2016. Incorporatedherein by reference to Exhibit 99.2 of GSE Systems, Inc. Form 8-K filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on July 1, 2016.* 10.21Restricted Share Unit Agreement (Cash Award) between Kyle J. Loudermilk and GSE Systems, Inc., dated as of July 1, 2016. Incorporatedherein by reference to Exhibit 99.3 of GSE Systems, Inc. Form 8-K filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on July 1, 2016.* 10.22Restricted Share Unit Agreement (Common Stock Award) between Kyle J. Loudermilk and GSE Systems, Inc., dated as of July 1, 2016. Incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 99.4 of GSE Systems, Inc. Form 8-K filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on July 1,2016.* 10.23Restricted Share Unit Agreement between Emmett A. Pepe and GSE Systems, Inc., dated as of July 1, 2016. Incorporated herein by referenceto Exhibit 99.3 of GSE Systems, Inc. Form 8-K filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on July 5, 2016.* 10.24Restricted Share Unit Agreement between Bahram Meyssami and GSE Systems, Inc. dated as of December 1, 2015. Incorporated herein byreference to Exhibit 10.2 of GSE Systems, Inc. Form 10-Q filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on May 15, 2017.* 10.25Amendment to Restricted Share Unit Agreement between Bahram Meyssami and GSE Systems, Inc. dated as of July 1, 2016. Incorporatedherein by reference to Exhibit 10.3 of GSE Systems, Inc. Form 10-Q filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on May 15, 2017.* 10.26Credit and Security Agreement, by and between Citizens Bank, National Association, GSE Systems, Inc. and GSE Performance Solutions, Inc.,dated December 29, 2016. Incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 99.1 of GSE Systems, Inc. Form 8-K filed with the Securities andExchange Commission on January 4, 2017. 10.27Amended and Restated Credit and Security Agreement, dated as of May 11, 2018, by and among Citizens Bank, National Association, as Bank,and GSE Systems, Inc. and GSE Performance Solutions, Inc., as Borrower. Incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 99.1 of GSE Systems,Inc. Form 8-K filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on May 14, 2018. 10.28Amendment and Reaffirmation Agreement, dated February 22, 2017, and effective as of December 29, 2016. Incorporated herein by referenceto Exhibit 10.36 of GSE Systems, Inc. Form 10-K filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on March 28, 2017. 10.29Second Amendment and Reaffirmation Agreement dated as of May 25, 2018. Incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.35 of Form 10-Kfiled with the Securities and Exchange Commission on June 11, 2020. 10.30Third Amendment and Reaffirmation Agreement dated as of February 15, 2019, by and among GSE Systems, Inc. and GSE PerformanceSolutions, Inc., as Borrowers, GSE True North Consulting, LLC, Hyperspring, LLC, Absolute Consulting, Inc. and DP Engineering Ltd. Co., asGuarantors, and Citizens Bank, National Association, as Bank. Incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 99.1 of GSE Systems, Inc. Form 8-K filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on February 19, 2019. 10.31Form of Indemnification Agreement. Incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.38 of Form 10-K filed with the Securities and ExchangeCommission on June 11, 2020. 10.32Fourth Amendment and Reaffirmation Agreement dated as of March 20, 2019, by and among GSE Systems, Inc., and GSE PerformanceSolutions, Inc., as Borrowers, GSE True North Consulting, LLC, Hyperspring, LLC, Absolute Consulting, Inc., and DP Engineering LLC, asGuarantors, and Citizens Bank, National Association, as Bank. Incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.39 of Form 10-K filed with theSecurities and Exchange Commission on June 11, 2020.83Table of Contents10.33Fifth Amendment and Reaffirmation Agreement, dated as of June 28, 2019, by and among Citizens Bank, National Association, as Bank, andGSE Systems, Inc. and GSE Performance Solutions, Inc. as Borrower, GSE True North Consulting, LLC, Hyperspring, LLC, AbsoluteConsulting, Inc. and DP Engineering, LLC as Guarantor. Incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 99.1 of our Current Report on Form 8-Kfiled with the Securities and Exchange Commission on July 1, 2019. 10.34Settlement and Release Agreement, dated as of December 30, 2019, by GSE Performance Solutions, Inc., GSE Systems, Inc. and theirsubsidiaries and affiliate, on the one hand, and Christopher A. Davenport and Steven L. Pellerin, on the other hand, incorporated herein byreference to Exhibit 99.1 of our Current Report on Form 8-K filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on January 6, 2020. 10.35Sixth Amendment and Reaffirmation Agreement, dated as of December 31, 2019, by and among Citizens Bank, National Association, as Bank,and GSE Systems, Inc. and GSE Performance Solutions, Inc. as Borrower, GSE True North Consulting, LLC, Hyperspring, LLC, AbsoluteConsulting, Inc. and DP Engineering, LLC as Guarantor. Incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 99.1 of our Current Report on Form 8-Kfiled with the Securities and Exchange Commission on January 8, 2020. 10.36Seventh Amendment and Reaffirmation Agreement, dated as of March 31, 2020, by and among Citizens Bank, National Association, as Bank,and GSE Systems, Inc. and GSE Performance Solutions, Inc. as Borrower, GSE True North Consulting, LLC, Hyperspring, LLC, AbsoluteConsulting, Inc. and DP Engineering, LLC as Guarantor. Incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 99.1 of our Current Report on Form 8-Kfiled with the Securities and Exchange Commission on April 17, 2020. 10.37Collateral assignment of Rights Under Escrow Agreement dated March 31, 2020, is made by GSE Performance Solutions Inc., in favor ofCitizens Bank, National Association. Incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.45 of Form 10-K filed with the Securities and ExchangeCommission on June 11, 2020. 10.38Eighth Amendment and Reaffirmation Agreement, dated as of June 29, 2020, by and among Citizens Bank, National Association, as Bank, andGSE Systems, Inc. and GSE Performance Solutions, Inc. as Borrower, GSE True North Consulting, LLC, Hyperspring, LLC, AbsoluteConsulting, Inc. and DP Engineering, LLC as Guarantor. Incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.1 of Form 10-Q filed with theSecurities and Exchange Commission on November 16, 2020. 10.39Ninth Amendment and Reaffirmation Agreement, dated as of March 29, 2021, by and among Citizens Bank, National Association, as Bank, andGSE Systems, Inc. and GSE Performance Solutions, Inc. as Borrower, GSE True North Consulting, LLC, Hyperspring, LLC, AbsoluteConsulting, Inc. and DP Engineering, LLC as Guarantor. Incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 99.1 of our Current Report on Form 8-Kfiled with the Securities and Exchange Commission on April 2, 2021. 10.40Paycheck Protection Note, by and between GSE Systems, Inc. and Citizens Bank, N.A., dated April 23, 2020,. Incorporated herein by referenceto Exhibit 99.1 of our Current Report on Form 8-K filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on April 30, 2020.10.41Tenth Amendment and Reaffirmation Agreement, dated as of November 12, 2021. filed herewith.10.42Securities Purchase Agreement, dated as of February 23, 2022, by and between GSE Systems, Inc. and Lind Global Fund II LP.10.43Senior Convertible Promissory Note due February 23, 2024 made by GSE Systems, Inc. in favor of Lind Global Fund II LP, dated February 23,2022.10.44Common Stock Purchase Warrant issued by GSE Systems, Inc. to Lind Global Fund II LP.10.45First Amendment, dated as of March 9, 2022, to Securities Purchase Agreement, dated February 23, 2022 by and between GSE Systems, Inc.and Lind Global Fund II LP, filed herewith.14Code of Ethics 14.1Code of Ethics for the Principal Executive Officer and Senior Financial Officers. Previously filed in connection with the GSE Systems, Inc.Form 10-K filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on March 31, 2006 and incorporated herein by reference. 21Subsidiaries. 21.1List of Subsidiaries of Registrant at December 31, 2020, filed herewith. 23Consent of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm 23.1Consent of Dixon Hughes Goodman LLP, filed herewith.84Table of Contents23.2Consent of BDO USA, LLP. filed herewith. 24Power of Attorney 24.1Power of Attorney for Directors' and Officers' Signatures on SEC Form 10-K, filed herewith. 31Certifications 31.1Certification of Chief Executive Officer of the Company pursuant to Securities and Exchange Act Rule 13d-14(a)/15(d-14(a), as adoptedpursuant to Section 302 and 404 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002, filed herewith. 31.2Certification of Chief Financial Officer of the Company pursuant to Securities and Exchange Act Rule 13d-14(a)/15(d-14(a), as adoptedpursuant to Section 302 and 404 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002, filed herewith. 32Section 1350 Certifications 32.1Certification of Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer of the Company pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350 as adopted pursuant toSection 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002, file herewith. * Management contracts or compensatory plans required to be filed as exhibits pursuant to Item 15(b) of this report.SIGNATURESPursuant to the requirements of Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalfby the undersigned, thereunto duly authorized. GSE Systems, Inc. By:/ s / Kyle J. Loudermilk Chief Executive Officer Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act, this report has been signed by the following persons in the capacities and on the dates indicated. Date: March 31, 2022 /s / KYLE J. LOUDERMILK Kyle J. Loudermilk, Chief Executive Officer (Principal Executive Officer) Date: March 31, 2022 / s / EMMETT A. PEPE Emmett A. Pepe, Chief Financial Officer (Principal Financial and Accounting Officer) Date: March 31, 2022(Kathryn O'Connor Gardner, Chairman of the Board)By:/ s / EMMETT A. PEPE (William Corey, Chairman of the Audit Committee) Emmett A. Pepe (Thomas J. Dougherty, Director) Attorney-in-Fact (Suresh Sundaram, Director) (Kyle Loudermilk, Director) A Power of Attorney, dated March 31, 2022 authorizing Emmett A. Pepe to sign this Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2021on behalf of certain of the directors of the Registrant is filed as Exhibit 24.1 to this Annual Report. 85Exhibit 10.41TENTH AMENDMENT AND REAFFIRMATION AGREEMENTTHIS TENTH AMENDMENT AND REAFFIRMATION AGREEMENT is dated as of November 12, 2021 (this "Agreement"), by andamong GSE SYSTEMS, INC., a Delaware corporation ("Parent"), GSE PERFORMANCE SOLUTIONS, INC., a Delaware corporation ("GSE Performance"and collectively with Parent, the "Borrowers" and each a "Borrower"), GSE TRUE NORTH CONSULTING, LLC, a Delaware limited liability company ("TrueNorth"), HYPERSPRING, LLC, a Delaware limited liability company ("Hyperspring"), ABSOLUTE CONSULTING, INC., a Delaware corporation("Absolute" and together with True North and Hyperspring collectively, the "Original Guarantors" and each an "Original Guarantor"), DP ENGINEERING,LLC, formerly DP Engineering Ltd. Co., a Delaware limited liability company ("DP Engineering" and together with the Original Guarantors collectively, the"Guarantors" and each a "Guarantor" and together with the Borrowers collectively, the "Loan Parties" and each a "Loan Party"), and CITIZENS BANK,NATIONAL ASSOCIATION (the "Bank"). Capitalized terms used herein but not otherwise defined herein shall have the meanings ascribed to such terms inthe Credit Agreement (as defined below) or the Guaranty (as defined below), as applicable.WHEREAS, pursuant to the terms of that certain Credit and Security Agreement, dated as of December 29, 2016 (as the same may have beenamended, renewed, replaced, or supplemented from time to time prior to the Closing Date (as defined in the Credit Agreement), the "Original CreditAgreement"), by and among Borrowers and Bank, the Bank agreed to provide a revolving line of credit to Borrowers in an amount not to exceed $5,000,000pursuant to a revolving line of credit note dated as of the Initial Closing Date (as defined in the Credit Agreement) of the Borrowers payable to the order of theBank (the "RLOC Note");WHEREAS, Hyperspring executed and delivered a Guaranty and Suretyship Agreement (as the same may have been amended, restated ormodified from time to time, the "Hyperspring Guaranty") dated as of December 29, 2016 in favor of Bank in connection with Borrower entering into theOriginal Credit Agreement;WHEREAS, Absolute executed and delivered a Guaranty and Suretyship Agreement (as the same may have been amended, restated ormodified from time to time, the "Absolute Guaranty") dated as of September 20, 2017 in favor of Bank in connection with the Original Credit Agreement;WHEREAS, True North executed and delivered a Guaranty and Suretyship Agreement (as the same may have been amended, restated ormodified from time to time, the "True North Guaranty") dated as of May 11, 2018 in favor of Bank in connection with the Credit Agreement;WHEREAS, GSE Performance executed and delivered a Pledge Agreement (as the same may have been amended, restated or modified fromtime to time, the "GSE Performance Pledge Agreement") dated as of September 20, 2017 in favor of Bank in connection with the Original Credit Agreement; -1-WHEREAS, Borrowers and Bank entered into that certain Amended and Restated Credit Agreement (as the same may have been amended,restated or modified from time to time, the "Credit Agreement") dated as of May 11, 2018 to continue the RLOC and to provide for a Term Loan Facility in aprincipal amount up to $25,000,000;WHEREAS, Original Guarantors and Bank entered into that certain Security Agreement (as the same may have been amended, restated ormodified from time to time, the "Security Agreement") dated as of May 11, 2018;WHEREAS, pursuant to that certain Amendment and Reaffirmation Agreement dated as of May 11, 2018, the Borrowers, the OriginalGuarantors and the Bank agreed to amend the terms and conditions of the RLOC Note and the GSE Performance Pledge Agreement;WHEREAS, pursuant to that certain Second Amendment and Reaffirmation Agreement dated as of May 25, 2018, the Borrowers, theOriginal Guarantors and the Bank agreed to amend certain terms and conditions of the Credit Documents to reflect the conversion of True North to a Delawarelimited liability company;WHEREAS, on February 15, 2019, (i) GSE Performance acquired all of the membership interests of DP Engineering, (ii) the Borrowers, theGuarantors and the Bank executed that certain Third Amendment and Reaffirmation Agreement dated as of such date and (iii) DP Engineering executed anddelivered a (a) Guaranty and Suretyship Agreement (the "DP Engineering Guaranty'' and together with the True North Guaranty, the Hyperspring Guaranty andAbsolute Guaranty collectively, the "Guaranty'') in favor of Bank in connection with the Credit Agreement and (b) Pledge Agreement in favor of Bank inconnection with the Credit Agreement;WHEREAS, pursuant to that certain Fourth Amendment and Reaffirmation Agreement dated as of March 20, 2019, the Borrowers, theGuarantors and the Bank agreed to amend certain terms and conditions of the Credit Documents to reflect the conversion of DP Engineering to a Delawarelimited liability company;WHEREAS, pursuant to that certain Fifth Amendment and Reaffirmation Agreement dated as of June 28, 2019, the Borrowers, theGuarantors and the Bank agreed to amend certain financial covenants in the Credit Agreement;WHEREAS, pursuant to that certain Sixth Amendment and Reaffirmation Agreement dated December 31, 2019, the Borrowers, theGuarantors and the Bank agreed to amend certain financial covenants in the Credit Agreement;WHEREAS, pursuant to that certain Seventh Amendment and Reaffirmation Agreement dated March 31, 2020, the Borrowers, theGuarantors, and the Bank agreed to amend certain financial covenants, definitions, and other provisions in the Credit Agreement;WHEREAS, pursuant to that certain Eighth Amendment and Reaffirmation Agreement dated June 29, 2020, the Borrowers, the Guarantors,and the Bank agreed to the Loan Repayment (as defined therein) and to amend certain financial covenants and other provisions in the Credit Agreement; -2-WHEREAS, pursuant to that certain Ninth Amendment and Reaffirmation Agreement dated March 29, 2021, the Borrowers, the Guarantors,and the Bank agreed to pay down the RLOC, reduce the RLOC Amount and amend certain financial covenants, definitions, and other provisions in the CreditAgreement as set forth herein; andWHEREAS, the Borrowers and the Guarantors have requested the Bank to make certain amendments to the Credit Agreement and waivecertain covenant violations.NOW, THEREFORE, in consideration of the foregoing and for other good and valuable consideration, the receipt and sufficiency of whichare hereby acknowledged, the parties hereto agree, under seal, as follows:ARTICLE ISection 1.01. Amendments to Credit Agreement. The Credit Agreement is hereby amended as follows:(a) Notwithstanding any provision of the Credit Agreement to the contrary, (i) interest on the outstanding principal amount of the RLOCshall accrue at the interest rate in effect for the RLOC from time to time, but the interest due and payable on the RLOC on each Interest Payment Date shall bedetermined by subtracting seventy-five (75) basis points from the Applicable Margin and (ii) the seventy-five (75) basis points of accrued interest on the RLOCnot paid on any Interest Payment Date pursuant to clause (i) above shall be due and payable on the Termination Date or the date of payment in full of theRLOC.(b) Subsection 1.1.93 of the Credit Agreement is hereby deleted and replaced with the following new Subsection 1.1.93:"1.1.93. "RLOC Amount" means (i) $3,500,000, (ii) on each date a payment in the amount of$250,000 is made pursuant toSubsection 2.l.5(d), the RLOC Amount immediately prior to such payment reduced by $250,000 and (iii) on March 31, 2022 and on each June 30, September30, December 31 and March 31 thereafter, the RLOC Amount immediately prior to each such date reduced by $37,500."(c) Subsection 2.l.5(d) of the Credit Agreement is hereby deleted and replaced with the following new Subsection 2.1.5(d):"(d) By December 31, 2021, Borrower shall pay Bank $250,000 to be applied to the principal amount outstanding under the RLOC.Commencing on March 31, 2022 and on each June 30, September 30, December 31 and March 31 thereafter, Borrower shall pay Bank $75,000 to be applied tothe principal amount outstanding under the RLOC. In addition, within the fifth (5th) Business Day after Borrower has received, subsequent to November 1,2021, Employee Retention Credits in an aggregate amount not less than $500,000, Borrower shall pay Bank $250,000 to be applied to the principal amountoutstanding under the RLOC."(d) Section 7.5 of the Credit Agreement is hereby deleted and replaced with the following new Section 7.5: -3-"Section 7.5 Minimum USA Liquidity. Borrower and its Subsidiaries shall maintain a minimum USA Liquidity of at least $2,250,000.00in the aggregate, to be tested bi- weekly as of the fifteenth (15th) and the last day of each month beginning on October 31, 2021 and thereafter and to bereported by Borrower to Bank within five (5) Business Days of such measurement date; provided, however, if such measurement date is not a Business Day,the measurement date shall be extended to the next Business Day after such measurement date."(e) The chart in the definition of the "Applicable Margin" on Exhibit C to the Credit Agreement is hereby deleted and replaced with thefollowing:Leverage RatioMarginCategory 1Greater than or equal to 3.25 to 1.004.75%Category 2Greater than or equal to 3.00 to 1.00, but less than 3.25 to 1.004.50%Category 3Greater than or equal to 2.75 to 1.00, but less than 3.00 to 1.004.25%Category 4Greater than or equal to 2.00 to 1.00, but less than 2.75 to 1.004.00%Category5Greater than or equal to 1.00 to 1.00, but less than 2.00 to 1.003.75%Category 6Less than 1.00 to 1.003.50%ARTICLE IISection 2.01. Waiver. Bank and Borrower acknowledges that (i) as of October 15, 2021 and November 1, 2021, Borrower did not achievethe minimum USA Liquidity for such measurement periods as required by Section 7.5 (as in effect on such dates) of the Credit Agreement and (ii) for theperiods ending as of September 30, 2021 and December 31, 2021, Borrower does not expect to satisfy the financial covenants in Section 7.1 of the CreditAgreement (Fixed Charge Coverage Ratio) and Section 7.2 (Leverage Ratio) of the Credit Agreement (collectively, the "Covenant Violations"). Bank herebyagrees that the Covenant Violations shall not constitute Events of Default under the Credit Agreement or other Credit Documents and hereby waives the right todeclare Events of Default under the Credit Agreement or other Credit Documents based solely on the Covenant Violations. -4-Borrower acknowledges and agrees that Bank's waiver herein is expressly limited to the Covenant Violations defined above and does not andshall not be deemed to constitute a waiver of any other defaults or Events of Default, nor shall it obligate Bank, or be construed to require Bank, to waive anyother defaults or Events of Default, whether now existing or which may occur after the date of this Agreement, nor shall it limit Bank's rights to exercise all ofits rights and remedies under the Credit Agreement (other than as to the Covenant Violations waived herein) or the other Credit Documents executed inconnection therewith, all of which Bank expressly reserves.ARTICLE IDReaffirmationSection 3.01. Reaffirmation.(a) Each Guarantor hereby: (i) affirms and confirms its guarantee and other commitments and obligations, under the Guaranty, theSecurity Agreement and any other Credit Documents executed by such Guarantor and (ii) confirms that each guarantee and other commitments and obligationsunder the Guaranty, the Security Agreement and any other Credit Documents executed by such Guarantor shall continue to be in full force and effect and shallcontinue to accrue to the benefit of the Bank notwithstanding the effectiveness of the Credit Agreement.(b) Each Borrower hereby affirms the execution and delivery to Bank of the Credit Documents, and the Credit Documents are continuedin full force and effect and are in all respects hereby affirmed and ratified.ARTICLE IVRepresentations and WarrantiesEach Loan Party, to the extent applicable, hereby represents and warrants, which representations and warranties shall survive execution anddelivery of this Agreement, as follows:Section 4.01. Organization. Each Loan Party is duly organized, validly existing and in good standing under the laws of the jurisdiction ofits organization.Section 4.02. Authority: Enforceability. Each Loan Party has the corporate or limited liability company power to execute, deliver andcarry out the terms and provisions of this Agreement and has taken all necessary corporate and other action, to authorize the execution, delivery andperformance by it of this Agreement. Each Loan Party has duly executed and delivered this Agreement, and this Agreement constitutes a legal, valid andbinding obligation of such Loan Party, enforceable against it in accordance with the terms hereof.Section 4.03. Credit Documents. The representations and warranties made by each Loan Party and set forth in the Credit Documents aretrue and correct on and as of the date hereof with the same effect as though made on and as of such date, except to the extent such -5-representations and warranties expressly relate to an earlier date (in which case any such representation and warranty shall have been true and correct as ofsuch earlier date).ARTICLEVMiscellaneousSection 5.01. Conditions to Effectiveness of Agreement. The Bank's willingness to agree to the amendments set forth in this Agreement issubject to (a) the execution and delivery of this Agreement by the Borrowers, Bank and Guarantors and (b) the payment by Borrowers to the Bank of (i) a$15,000 amendment fee and (ii) the reasonable fees and expenses of the Bank's outside and in-house counsel in connection with this Agreement.Section 5.02. Notices. All communications and notices hereunder shall be in writing and given as provided in Section 10.9 of the CreditAgreement or Section 13 of the Guaranty, as applicable.Section 5.03. Expenses. Each Loan Party acknowledges and agrees that the Bank shall be entitled to reimbursement of expenses asprovided in Section 10.2 of the Credit Agreement and Section 10 of the Guaranty, as applicable.Section 5.04. Credit Document. This Agreement is a "Credit Document" executed pursuant to the Credit Agreement and shall beconstrued, administered and applied in accordance with the terms and provisions thereof.Section 5.05. Successors and Assigns. The provisions of this Agreement shall be binding upon and inure to the benefit of the partieshereto and their respective successors and assigns.Section 5.06. No Novation. Nothing herein contained shall be construed as a substitution or novation of the obligations outstanding underthe Credit Documents, which shall remain in full force and effect except as modified by this Agreement and the Credit Agreement.Section 5.07. Governing Law: Waiver of Jury Trial. This Agreement shall be construed in accordance with and governed by the laws ofthe State of Delaware. EACH LOAN PARTY HEREBY KNOWINGLY, VOLUNTARILY AND INTENTIONALLY WAIVES ANY RIGHT TO A TRIAL BYJURY IN ANY SUIT, ACTION OR PROCEEDING BROUGHT OR INSTITUTED BY ANY PARTY HERETO OR ANY SUCCESSOR OR ASSIGN OFANY PARTY, ON OR WITH RESPECT TO THIS AGREEMENT, ANY OF THE OTHER DOCUMENTS, THE COLLATERAL OR THE DEALINGS OFTHE PARTIES WITH RESPECT HERETO OR THERETO, WHETHER BY CLAIM OR COUNTERCLAIM.Section 5.08. Remaining Force and Effect. Except as specifically amended hereby, the Credit Documents remain in full force and effect inaccordance with their original terms and conditions. -6-IN WITNESS WHEREOF, each of the parties hereto has caused this Agreement to be duly executed under seal by its respective authorizedofficers as of the day and year first above written. BANK: Witness/Attest: CITIZENS BANK, NATIONAL ASSOCIATION. By:/s/ Erin C Kane(SEAL) Name: Erin C Kane Title: Workout Officer Witness/Attest: GSE PERFORMANCE SOLUTIONS, INC. /s/ Leah Brewster By:/s/ Emmett Pepe(SEAL) Emmett Pepe Treasurer GUARANTORS: Witness/Attest: ABSOLUTE CONSULTING, INC. /s/ Leah Brewster By:/s/ Emmett Pepe(SEAL) Emmett Pepe Treasurer Witness/Attest: HYPERSPRING, LLC /s/ Leah Brewster By:/s/ Emmett Pepe(SEAL) Emmett Pepe Treasurer [signature page to Tenth Amendment and Reaffirmation Agreement]-7-Witness/Attest: GSE TRUE NORTH CONSULTING, LLC /s/ Leah Brewster By:/s/ Emmett Pepe(SEAL) Emmett Pepe Treasurer Witness/Attest: DP ENGINEERING, LLC /s/ Leah Brewster By:/s/ Emmett Pepe(SEAL) Emmett Pepe Treasurer [signature page to Tenth Amendment and Reaffirmation Agreement]-8-Exhibit 10.45FIRST AMENDMENT TO THE SECURITIES PURCHASE AGREEMENTTHIS FIRST AMENDMENT TO THE SECURITIES PURCHASE AGREEMENT (this “Amendment”) is entered into as of March 9, 2022 (the“Effective Date”), by and between GSE Systems, Inc., a Delaware corporation (the “Company”), and Lind Global Fund II LP, a Delaware limited partnership(the “Investor”). Capitalized terms used, but not otherwise defined herein, shall have the meanings ascribed to them in the Purchase Agreement (as definedbelow).WHEREAS, the Company and the Investor are parties to that certain Securities Purchase Agreement, dated February 23, 2022 (the “PurchaseAgreement”), and desire to amend the Purchase Agreement in the manner set forth in this Amendment.NOW, THEREFORE, in consideration of the foregoing, and for other good and valuable consideration, the receipt and sufficiency of which are herebyacknowledged, the Purchase Agreement is hereby amended as follows:1. Amendments to the Purchase Agreement. Section 9.1(a) to the Purchase Agreement is hereby deleted in its entirety and replaced with thefollowing:“(a) Registration Statement. Promptly, but in any event no later than forty (40) days from the date of this Agreement, the Company shall prepare andfile with the SEC a Registration Statement covering the resale of all of the Investor Shares. The foregoing Registration Statement shall be filed onForm S-3 or any successor forms thereto. The Registration Statement (and each amendment or supplement thereto, and each request for accelerationof effectiveness thereof) shall be provided to the Investor and its counsel at least five (5) Business Days prior to its filing or other submission and theCompany shall incorporate all reasonable comments provided by the Investor or its counsel.”2. Effect of Agreement. This Amendment is intended to modify the provisions of the Purchase Agreement identified herein. Other than as setforth in this Amendment, all of the terms and conditions of the Purchase Agreement shall continue in full force and effect. This Amendment and the PurchaseAgreement contain the entire agreement and understanding of the parties with respect to the subject matter hereof, and supersede all prior andcontemporaneous agreements and understandings with respect to such subject matter, and shall not be changed except by written agreement signed by theparties.3. Binding Effect. This Amendment shall inure to the benefit of, and be binding upon, each of the parties and their respective heirs, personalrepresentatives, successors and assigns.4. Governing Law. This Amendment will be governed by, and construed and enforced in accordance with, the Laws of the State of Delaware,without reference to principals of conflict of laws or choice of laws. 5. Further Assurances. Each party agrees to execute and deliver all further instruments and documents, and to take all additional actions, as anyparty may reasonably require in order to effectuate the intent and purpose of this Amendment.6. Counterparts. This Amendment may be executed in counterparts, each of which will be deemed an original, with the same effect as if thesignature on each such counterpart were on the same instrument. This Amendment may be executed and delivered via facsimile, electronic mail (including pdfor any electronic signature complying with the U.S. federal ESIGN Act of 2000, e.g., www.docusign.com) or other transmission method and any counterpart sodelivered shall be deemed to have been duly and validly delivered and be valid and effective and legally binding for all purposes.[Signature Page Follows] 2IN WITNESS WHEREOF, and intending to be legally bound hereby, the parties have duly executed this Amendment as of the Effective Date. COMPANY: GSE SYSTEMS, INC. /s/ Emmett Pepe Name:Emmett Pepe Title:Chief Financial Officer INVESTOR: LIND GLOBAL FUND II LP By:/s/ Jeff Easton Name:Jeff Easton Title:Managing Member of Lind Global Partners II LLC,General Partner Signature Page to First Amendment to /lie Securitie Purchase AgreementExhibit 21.1SUBSIDIARIES OF REGISTRANT AT DECEMBER 31, 2021The following are significant subsidiaries of GSE Systems, Inc. as of December 31, 2021, and the states or jurisdictions in which they are organized. GSESystems, Inc. owns, directly or indirectly, at least 99% of the voting securities of substantially all of the subsidiaries included below. The names of particularsubsidiaries have been omitted because, considered in the aggregate as a single subsidiary, they would not constitute, as of the end of the year covered by thisreport, a "significant subsidiary" as that term is defined in Regulation S-X under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934.Name Place of Incorporation or Organization GSE Systems Engineering (Beijing) Company, Ltd Peoples Republic of ChinaGSE Process Solutions, Inc. State of DelawareGSE Services Company L.L.C. State of DelawareGSE Performance Solutions, Inc. State of DelawareHyperspring, LLC State of DelawareAbsolute Consulting, Inc.GSE True North Consulting, LLCDP Engineering, LLC State of DelawareState of DelawareState of DelawareGSE Systems Slovakia s.r.o SlovakiaExhibit 23.1Consent of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm We consent to the incorporation by reference in the Registration Statements on Forms S8 (Nos. 333- 212241, 333-183427, 333-150249 and 333-138702) ofGSE Systems, Inc. of our report dated March 31, 2022, with respect to the consolidated financial statements of GSE Systems, Inc. included in this AnnualReport on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2021./s/ Dixon Hughes Goodman LLP Tysons, VirginiaMarch 31, 2022Exhibit 24.1POWER OF ATTORNEYKNOW ALL MEN BY THESE PRESENTS, that each person whose signature appears below constitutes and appoints Kyle J. Loudermilk andEmmett A. Pepe, and each of them, with full power of substitution and reconstitution and each with full power to act for him and without the other, as his trueand lawful attorney-in-fact and agent, for him and in his name, place and stead, in any and all capacities, to sign any and all amendments to this AnnualReport on Form 10-K, and to file the same, with all exhibits thereto and all documents in connection therewith, with the Securities and Exchange Commissionor any state, granting unto said attorneys-in-fact and agents, and each of them, full power and authority to do and perform each and every act and thingrequisite and necessary to be done in and about the premises, as fully to all intents and purposes as he or she might or could do in person, hereby ratifying andconfirming all that said attorneys-in-fact and agents, or any of them, or their, his or her substitutes or substitute, may lawfully do or cause to be done by virtuehereof.Pursuant to the requirements of the Security Exchange Act of 1934, this Annual Report on Form 10-K has been signed by the following persons in thecapacities and on the date indicated.Date: March 31, 2022/s/ Kyle J. Loudermilk Kyle J. Loudermilk Chief Executive Officer Date: March 31, 2022/s/ Emmett A. Pepe Emmett A. Pepe Chief Financial Officer Date: March 31, 2022s/ Kathryn O’Connor Gardner Kathryn O’Connor Gardner Chairman of the Board Date: March 31, 2022/s/ William Corey William Corey Chairman of the Audit Committee Date: March 31, 2022/s/ Thomas J. Dougherty Thomas J. Dougherty Director Date: March 31, 2022/s/ Suresh Sundaram Suresh Sundaram Director Exhibit 31.1Certification of the Chief Executive OfficerI, Kyle J. Loudermilk, certify that:1.I have reviewed this annual report on Form 10-K of GSE Systems, Inc.; 2.Based on my knowledge, this report does not contain any untrue statement of a material fact or omit to state a material fact necessary to make thestatements made, in light of the circumstances under which such statements were made, not misleading with respect to the period covered by this report; 3.Based on my knowledge, the financial statements, and other financial information included in this annual report, fairly present in all material respects thefinancial condition, results of operations and cash flows of the registrant, as of, and for, the periods presented in this report; 4.The registrant’s other certifying officer and I are responsible for establishing and maintaining disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in ExchangeAct Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e)) and internal control over financial reporting (as defined in Exchange Act Rules 13a-15(f) and 15d-15(f)) for theregistrant and have: a)Designed such disclosure controls and procedures, or caused such disclosure controls and procedures to be designed under our supervision, to ensurethat material information relating to the registrant, including its consolidated subsidiaries, is made known to us by others within those entities,particularly during the period in which this report is being prepared; b)Designed such internal control over financial reporting, or caused such internal control over financial reporting to be designed under our supervision,to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the preparation of financial statements for external purposes inaccordance with generally accepted accounting principles; c)Evaluated the effectiveness of the registrant’s disclosure controls and procedures and presented in this report our conclusions about the effectivenessof the disclosure controls and procedures, as of the end of the period covered by this report based on such evaluation; and d)Disclosed in this report any change in the registrant’s internal control over financial reporting that occurred during the registrant’s fourth quarter thathas materially affected or is reasonably likely to materially affect, the registrant’s internal control over financial reporting; and 5.The registrant’s other certifying officer and I have disclosed, based on our most recent evaluation of internal control over financial reporting, to theregistrant’s auditors and the audit committee of registrant’s board of directors: a)All significant deficiencies and material weaknesses in the design or operation of internal control over financial reporting which are reasonably likelyto adversely affect the registrant’s ability to record, process, summarize and report financial information; and b)Any fraud, whether or not material, that involves management or other employees who have a significant role in the registrant’s internal control overfinancial reporting. Date: March 31, 2022 /s/ Kyle J. Loudermilk Kyle J. Loudermilk Chief Executive Officer(Principal Executive Officer)Exhibit 31.2Certification of the Chief Financial OfficerI, Emmett A. Pepe, certify that:6.I have reviewed this annual report on Form 10-K of GSE Systems, Inc.; 7.Based on my knowledge, this report does not contain any untrue statement of a material fact or omit to state a material fact necessary to make thestatements made, in light of the circumstances under which such statements were made, not misleading with respect to the period covered by this report; 8.Based on my knowledge, the financial statements, and other financial information included in this report, fairly present in all material respects the financialcondition, results of operations and cash flows of the registrant, as of, and for, the periods presented in this report; 9.The registrant’s other certifying officer and I are responsible for establishing and maintaining disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in ExchangeAct Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e)) and internal control over financial reporting (as defined in Exchange Act Rules 13a-15(f) and 15d-15(f)) for theregistrant and have: e)Designed such disclosure controls and procedures, or caused such disclosure controls and procedures to be designed under our supervision, to ensurethat material information relating to the registrant, including its consolidated subsidiaries, is made known to us by others within those entities,particularly during the period in which this report is being prepared; f)Designed such internal control over financial reporting, or caused such internal control over financial reporting to be designed under our supervision,to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the preparation of financial statements for external purposes inaccordance with generally accepted accounting principles; g)Evaluated the effectiveness of the registrant’s disclosure controls and procedures and presented in this report our conclusions about the effectivenessof the disclosure controls and procedures, as of the end of the period covered by this report based on such evaluation; and h)Disclosed in this report any change in the registrant’s internal control over financial reporting that occurred during the registrant’s most recent fiscalquarter (the registrant’s fourth fiscal quarter in the case of an annual report) that has materially affected or is reasonably likely to materially affect, theregistrant’s internal control over financial reporting; and 10.The registrant’s other certifying officer and I have disclosed, based on our most recent evaluation of internal control over financial reporting, to theregistrant’s auditors and the audit committee of registrant’s board of directors: c)All significant deficiencies and material weaknesses in the design or operation of internal control over financial reporting which are reasonably likelyto adversely affect the registrant’s ability to record, process, summarize and report financial information; and d)Any fraud, whether or not material, that involves management or other employees who have a significant role in the registrant’s internal control overfinancial reporting. Date: March 31, 2022 /s/ Emmett A. Pepe Emmett A. Pepe Chief Financial Officer(Principal Financial and Accounting Officer)Exhibit 32.1CERTIFICATION PURSUANT TO18 U.S.C. SECTION 1350AS ADOPTED PURSUANT TOSECTION 906 OF THE SARBANES-OXLEY ACT OF 2002In connection with the Annual Report on Form 10-K of GSE Systems, Inc. (the “Company”) for the year ended December 31, 2021 as filed with the Securitiesand Exchange Commission on the date hereof (the “Report”), I, Kyle J. Loudermilk, Chief Executive Officer of the Company, and I, Emmett A. Pepe, ChiefFinancial Officer, certify, pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350, as adopted pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002, that,1.The Report fully complies with the requirements of Section 13(a) or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934; and2.To my knowledge, the information contained in the Report fairly presents, in all material respects, the financial condition and results of operationsof the Company.Date: March 31, 2022/s/ Kyle J. Loudermilk /s/ Emmett A. Pepe Kyle J. Loudermilk Emmett A. Pepe Chief Executive Officer Chief Financial Officer

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