Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification (CMMC)

The Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification (CMMC) is a comprehensive framework designed to enhance cybersecurity organizations within the Defense Industrial Base (DIB), and their supply chains. Developed by the U.S. Department of Defense (DoD), the CMMC aims to ensure that contractors and subcontractors handling sensitive government information have robust cybersecurity practices in place. The model is structured into five maturity levels, each building upon the previous one. This provides a clear and scalable path for organizations to improve their cybersecurity posture.

The CMMC Program was revised in November 2021 with an updated structure and requirements. The revised program has three key features:

1. Tiered Model — Companies responsible for handling federal contract information and controlled unclassified information must adhere to the appropriate level of cybersecurity standards, based on the sensitivity and nature of the data. The program also provides guidelines for safeguarding information passed down to subcontractors.
2. Assessment Requirement — The Department will use CMMC assessments to confirm the adoption of defined cybersecurity standards.
3. Phased Implementation — Once new CMMC regulations take effect, select DoD contractors handling Controlled Unclassified Information and Federal Contract Information must attain a specific CMMC level before receiving a contract. CMMC requirements will be implemented in four phases over three years.

For manufacturing organizations, particularly those involved in defense contracts, achieving the appropriate CMMC level is crucial to getting and keeping contracts. Many manufacturing companies handle sensitive data related to defense projects, and a breach could have national security implications. For example, a manufacturer that produces components for military aircraft must ensure that its systems are secure to prevent the theft of design specifications or production data.

The CMMC framework also emphasizes the importance of continuous improvement and third-party assessments. Organizations must not only implement the required cybersecurity practices but also undergo regular audits by certified third-party assessment organizations (C3PAOs) to verify compliance. These independent assessments ensure the right security measures are not only in place but are also effective and continuously maintained. The CMMC also encourages a culture of cybersecurity awareness and responsibility within the organization, fostering a proactive approach to identifying and mitigating potential cyberthreats.