StressAD Strengths Cybersecurity for the Aerospace & Defense Industry with CMMC Level 2 Certification

Protecting sensitive government data is a top priority for the defense industry. As a proud partner, we take this responsibility seriously too. That’s why we’re pleased to announce that we have achieved Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification (CMMC) Level 2 (Advanced). This certification marks a key milestone in our ongoing commitment to securing critical defense information and supporting national security.

What Is CMMC Level 2?

CMMC is a U.S. Department of Defense (DoD) cybersecurity framework designed to protect Controlled Unclassified Information (CUI) within the defense supply chain. Companies handling different types of CUI must meet strict cybersecurity standards to reduce the risk of cyber threats and safeguard sensitive data from adversaries.

Achieving CMMC Level 2 means StressAD has met 110 cybersecurity requirements mapped to 320 assessment objectives based on the NIST SP 800-171 framework. This certification verifies that we have the necessary policies, controls, and security infrastructure to handle International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR) and other export-controlled information, ensuring compliance with Defense Federal Acquisition Regulation Supplement (DFARS) 252.204-7021.

The Road to Certification

Nearly two years ago, StressAD embarked on a rigorous journey to meet CMMC Level 2 requirements. This process included:

  • Conducting a comprehensive gap analysis to identify cybersecurity weaknesses.
  • Working with a third-party consultant to ensure best-in-class security measures.
  • Developing a 1,000+ page System Security Plan (SSP) and extensive supporting documentation for audit preparation.
  • Implementing 30 security policies, plans, and procedures to meet compliance.
  • Training employees on cybersecurity best practices and access control procedures.

The final audit, originally scheduled for multiple days, was completed in just over half a day, which reflects exceptional preparation by our team. At the time of our audit, fewer than 100 companies had achieved this certification.

Why CMMC Level 2 Matters

CMMC Level 2 certification is more than just a piece of paper. It indicates StressAD is trusted to:

  • Protect sensitive government and defense information from cyber threats.
  • Resource Management: Strategic budget allocation and cross-functional teamwork are key to optimizing our resources for cybersecurity initiatives.
  • Meet legal and contractual requirements for working with DoD prime contractors.
  • Strengthen the defense supply chain by ensuring security across all levels.

With new CMMC rules in effect, companies that fail to achieve certification within the next several years will lose eligibility for government contracts. StressAD is ahead of the industry curve, ensuring our ability to support key defense programs for years to come.

A Continuous Commitment to Cybersecurity

Achieving CMMC Level 2 is a significant milestone, but cybersecurity requires an ongoing commitment to our clients, our industry, and our nation’s security. StressAD has established a cybersecurity governance committee that will meet quarterly to ensure continued compliance, conduct regular audits, and adapt to emerging threats.

For more information about StressAD’s accreditations and certifications, visit https://stress-ad.com/accreditations-certifications/.

Matthew W. Sanders, PE

Matthew W. Sanders, PE – Principal / StressAD Program Director

Matt supports multiple practice areas including Aerospace & Defense, Testing, and Technology Development. He also supports SES’s Testing Practice Quality Management System and serves as an auditor for the full-scale testing laboratory. Matt has a BS and MS in Mechanical Engineering from Texas A&M University. He is a registered Professional Engineer in the state of Texas.

Contact StressAD

Phone: 281.671.2600
Email: info@stress-ad.com

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