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CMMC 2.0: Why Waiting Is a Costly Mistake

/ CYBERSECURITY, MANUFACTURING HEAT TREAT NEWS, OP-ED

The Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification (CMMC) 2.0 compliance process is detailed and complicated, and businesses in the defense industrial base (DIB) may be tempted to delay this regulatory hurdle. In this Cybersecurity Desk column, which was first released in Heat Treat Today’s March 2025 Aerospace print edition Joe Coleman, cybersecurity officer at Bluestreak Compliance, a division of Bluestreak | Bright AM™, explains why companies putting off CMMC 2.0 compliance may end up scrambling to meet deadlines, incurring costly delays, and even facing potential disqualification from future DoD contracts.

Introduction

The Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification (CMMC) 2.0 is not only a regulatory hurdle, it represents a fundamental shift in the cybersecurity landscape for the Defense Industrial Base (DIB). Ignoring this critical initiative can have severe and potentially irreversible consequences for your company’s future.

Many companies mistakenly believe they can afford to delay their CMMC 2.0 compliance efforts, assuming they have plenty of time to prepare. This is a dangerous assumption. Achieving CMMC 2.0 compliance is a detailed and complicated process that typically takes 12–18 months. Delaying implementation can leave your company scrambling to meet deadlines and increase the risk of costly delays, missed opportunities, and even potential disqualification from future DoD contracts.

The High Cost of Inaction

The consequences of failing to prioritize CMMC 2.0 compliance are significant:

  • Loss of revenue and market share: Non-compliance directly impacts your ability to bid on and win DoD contracts. This translates to lost revenue, limiting growth and a significant competitive disadvantage against companies that have already achieved compliance
  • Erosion of trust and reputation: Failing to meet cybersecurity standards can damage your company’s reputation within the DIB. This loss of trust can impact not only your relationship with the DoD, but also with other key stakeholders, including clients, contractors, partners and investors. Some of your clients may have already asked if you are compliant.
  • Increased vulnerability to cyberattacks: A weak cybersecurity posture leaves your company highly susceptible to cyberattacks. These attacks can have devastating consequences, including data breaches, system disruptions, and significant financial losses. The key cybersecurity component of CMMC is NIST Special Publication 800-171.
  • Significant financial penalties: Non-compliance can result in substantial financial penalties, including fines and contract termination. These penalties can severely impact your company’s bottom line and long-term growth.
  • Operational disruption: The process of implementing and maintaining CMMC 2.0 controls can require significant amounts of time and resources. Delaying these efforts can disrupt your company’s operations, impacting productivity and potentially hindering critical projects.

The Benefits of Proactive Action

By proactively addressing CMMC 2.0 compliance, your company can gain a significant competitive advantage to win more business:

  • Competitive head start: Companies that prioritize CMMC 2.0 compliance gain a significant first-mover advantage. They can demonstrate their commitment to enhanced cybersecurity to the DoD, build stronger relationships with government agencies, and position themselves as preferred partners for future contracts.
  • Reduced stress and increased efficiency: Starting early allows for a more gradual and less stressful implementation process. This reduces the risk of last-minute scrambling and allows for a more efficient and effective integration of cybersecurity measures into your existing workflows.
  • Enhanced cybersecurity posture: The CMMC 2.0 framework provides a structured approach to enhancing your overall cybersecurity posture. By implementing these controls, you not only improve your compliance but also strengthen your defenses against a wide range of cyber threats.
  • Improved operational resilience: A robust cybersecurity program enhances your company’s operational resilience. By minimizing the risk of cyberattacks and their potential disruptions, you can ensure business continuity and maintain a competitive edge in the market.
  • Building a culture of security: CMMC 2.0 implementation encourages a shift towards a culture of security within your company. This includes raising awareness among employees about cybersecurity risks, fostering a sense of shared responsibility, and promoting best practices at all levels.

Conclusion

Click image to download a list of cybersecurity acronyms and definitions.

CMMC 2.0 is not an option; it is a critical requirement for any company seeking to do business with the DoD, its prime contractors, and/or downstream service providers. Procrastination is not an option. By taking proactive steps to understand and address CMMC 2.0 requirements, your company can mitigate risks, enhance its cybersecurity posture, and gain a significant competitive advantage in the evolving defense landscape.

For an up-to-date resource list of common cybersecurity acronyms, click the image to the right.

About the Author:

Joe Coleman
Cyber Security Officer
Bluestreak Consulting
Source: Bluestreak Consulting

Joe Coleman is the cybersecurity officer at Bluestreak Compliance, which is a division of Bluestreak | Bright AM™. Joe has over 35 years of diverse manufacturing and engineering experience. His background includes extensive training in cybersecurity, a career as a machinist, machining manager, and an early additive manufacturing (AM) pioneer. Joe presented at the Furnaces North America (FNA 2024) convention on DFARS, NIST 800-171, and CMMC 2.0.

For more information: Contact Joe at joe.coleman@go-throughput.com.

Find heat treating products and services when you search on Heat Treat Buyers Guide.Com

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Most SMBs Unprepared for CMMC 2.0, Risk Losing Contracts 

/ CYBERSECURITY, GUEST COLUMN, OP-ED

“The Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification (CMMC) 2.0 aims to improve cybersecurity across the defense industrial base (DIB), but many small to mid-sized businesses (SMBs) struggle to meet the standards, putting them at risk of losing crucial contracts.” In this Cybersecurity Desk column, Joe Coleman, cybersecurity officer at Bluestreak Compliance, a division of Bluestreak | Bright AM™, raises the alarm if small to mid-sized heat treaters neglect compliance standards and guides companies through the minefield of cyber threats facing all SMBs.

Read more Cybersecurity Desk columns in previous Heat Treat Today’s issues here.

Despite an increasing cyber threat landscape, many small to mid-sized businesses (SMBs) in the Department of Defense (DoD) supply chain remain unprepared for compliance with NIST SP 800-171 R2 and CMMC 2.0. The Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification (CMMC) 2.0 aims to improve cybersecurity across the defense industrial base (DIB), but many SMBs struggle to meet the standards, putting them at risk of losing crucial contracts. Surveys suggest that nearly 70% of SMBs are unready for the new requirements, and the real figure could be even higher due to some businesses inaccurately reporting compliance by inflating their assessment scores. 

Understanding CMMC 2.0 

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CMMC 2.0 simplifies the original five-tier framework into three levels: 

  • Level 1: Basic cyber hygiene for contractors handling Federal Contract Information (FCI). 
  • Level 2: Advanced practices for those working with Controlled Unclassified Information (CUI). 
  • Level 3: Stringent requirements for contractors involved in national security projects. 

Compliance is mandatory for any contractor bidding on DoD contracts, including those working indirectly for federal contractors and subcontractors. SMBs should anticipate customers clients inquiring to inquire about their compliance as these standards will soon impact their business relationships. Achieving compliance is a lengthy process, typically taking 12 to 18 months. 

Low Readiness and Risks 

The lack of readiness among SMBs threatens both business continuity and national security. Many smaller contractors lack the resources and expertise to meet CMMC 2.0’s standards. Given the defense sector’s reliance on a wide variety of contractors, this gap could create widespread repercussions. 

Financial Implications of Non-Compliance 

Irreversible consequences from waiting to comply

Compliance with CMMC 2.0 can be financially burdensome. Implementing measures such as multi-factor authentication, encryption and continuous monitoring can be costly, especially for businesses with limited resources. The lack of in-house cybersecurity expertise compounds this issue, requiring companies to hire or train specialized personnel, further increasing costs. 

Failing to comply with CMMC 2.0 could result in losing valuable DoD contracts, which can be a significant portion of SMB revenue. Such losses could lead to layoffs, revenue declines or even business closures. 

Challenges to Compliance 

Several challenges contribute to the widespread unpreparedness among SMBs: 

  • Unclear timelines: Uncertainty surrounding DoD’s compliance timelines complicates planning and prioritization for SMBs. 
  • Complexity of requirements: While CMMC 2.0 simplifies the original framework, its specific requirements remain difficult to interpret for many SMBs, particularly in identifying necessary security measures. 
  • Resource limitations: The cost of achieving and maintaining compliance strains smaller businesses, which often lack the budgets for the required technology and expertise. 
  • Lack of cybersecurity expertise: A shortage of qualified personnel poses a significant obstacle, as demand for cybersecurity professionals is high across industries. 

Government Support Initiatives 

To help SMBs, the DoD has introduced various programs, including training, grants and educational resources. A phased implementation timeline also provides additional preparation time. However, industry experts suggest that further support, such as tax credits or subsidies, could help SMBs offset the costs of compliance. Clearer guidance from the DoD would also be beneficial in helping businesses navigate the certification process. 

Path Forward for SMBs 

Click image to download a list of cybersecurity acronyms and definitions.

To secure future contracts, SMBs must prioritize cybersecurity. This involves conducting internal risk assessments, identifying vulnerabilities, and creating compliance plans. Partnering with cybersecurity experts or managed service providers can help SMBs develop cost-effective strategies. Additionally, leveraging government resources and adopting critical security measures early will better position SMBs for CMMC 2.0 certification. 

Conclusion 

The widespread lack of preparedness for CMMC 2.0 poses significant risks to both SMBs and the defense supply chain. As deadlines approach, proactive measures from both businesses and the government are necessary to close the readiness gap and ensure the continued participation of SMBs in the defense sector. 

About the Author

Joe Coleman
Cyber Security Officer
Bluestreak Consulting
Source: Bluestreak Consulting

Joe Coleman is the cybersecurity officer at Bluestreak Compliance, which is a division of Bluestreak | Bright AM™. Joe has over 35 years of diverse manufacturing and engineering experience. His background includes extensive training in cybersecurity, a career as a machinist, machining manager and an early additive manufacturing (AM) pioneer. Joe presented at the Furnaces North America (FNA 2024) convention on DFARS, NIST 800-171, and CMMC 2.0.

For more information: Contact Joe at joe.coleman@go-throughput.com.

Find Heat Treating Products And Services When You Search On Heat Treat Buyers Guide.Com

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Cybersecurity Desk: CMMC vs. NIST SP 800-171: Understanding the Differences

/ CYBERSECURITY, OP-ED

In Department of Defense (DoD) compliance, many acronyms and standards define how businesses manage processes to stay compliant. In this Cybersecurity Desk column, which was first released in Heat Treat Today’s September 2024 People of Heat Treat print edition. In it, Joe Coleman, cybersecurity officer at Bluestreak Compliance, a division of Bluestreak | Bright AM™, discusses the similarities and differences between the Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification (CMMC) 2.0 and NIST Special Publication 800-171 Rev. 2.

What Is CMMC?

The Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification (CMMC) evaluates the maturity of an organization’s cybersecurity program. Developed by the DoD, it aims to equip over 300,000 Defense Industrial Base (DIB) contractors with robust defenses against cyber threats. Once formally published, CMMC 2.0 will be a mandated framework for private contractors and subcontractors seeking government contracts.

CMMC’s comprehensive approach includes NIST SP 800-171, NIST SP 800-172, and the Cybersecurity Framework (CSF), incorporating industry-leading practices. It ensures the effective implementation of critical controls and safeguards the integrity of the supply chain. CMMC 2.0 compliance certification has three levels:

  • Level 1: Foundational: For companies handling Federal Contract Information (FCI) but not Controlled Unclassified Information (CUI).
  • Level 2: Advanced: For companies that store, process, or transmit CUI.
  • Level 3: Expert: For companies implementing highly advanced cybersecurity practices.

It will be referred to as DFARS 242.204-7021 when integrated into government-awarded contracts.

Source: Department of Defense

What Is NIST SP 800-171?

NIST SP 800-171 is the National Institute of Standards and Technology Special Publication 800-171 Rev. 2. It outlines security standards for non-federal organizations that handle CUI, ensuring they maintain strong cybersecurity practices. Compliance is mandatory for DoD primes, contractors, and supply chain service providers.

NIST 800-171 specifies five core cybersecurity areas: identify, protect, detect, respond, and recover. These areas serve as a framework to protect CUI and mitigate cyber risks. The standard comprises 110 security controls within 14 control families, leading to 320 control or assessment objectives. Compliance is measured on a 110-point scale, with a possible range from -203 to 110. An initial negative score is not uncommon.

Even for organizations with some cyber/IT security measures, retaining a qualified DFARS/NIST 800-171 consultant or a CMMC Registered Practitioner (RP) or CMMC Registered Practitioner Advanced (RPA) is highly recommended to guide you through the process.

Similarities Between NIST SP 800-171 and CMMC

Both CMMC and NIST SP 800-171 aim to strengthen information security and protect sensitive data, ensuring the confidentiality, integrity, and availability of organizational information assets. Here are some of the key similarities:

  • Control Alignment: CMMC 2.0 Level 2 aligns with NIST SP 800-171 Rev. 2’s 110 controls.
  • Focus: Both frameworks emphasize protecting data confidentiality, integrity, and availability.
  • Role Definitions: They describe roles within an organization’s cybersecurity program and interactions among those roles.
  • Asset Identification: Both require identifying assets and vulnerabilities and creating a risk management plan.
  • Cybersecurity Program Development: Organizations must develop a program with policies, procedures, and standards.
  • Risk Management: Both require identifying, assessing, prioritizing, and responding to risks, though CMMC is more comprehensive.

Differences Between NIST SP 800-171 and CMMC

While both frameworks enhance cybersecurity, they have distinct features:

  • Compliance Requirement: DFARS 252.204-7012 mandates NIST SP 800-171 compliance; DFARS 252.204-7021 mandates CMMC certification for handling CUI.
  • Assessment: NIST SP 800-171 compliance is self-assessed, while CMMC requires an independent third-party assessment.
  • Levels: CMMC has three certification levels, each more stringent than NIST SP 800-171 alone.
  • Scope: CMMC integrates additional NIST SP 800-172 practices and industry standards beyond NIST SP 800-171.

Conclusion

Click image to download a list of cybersecurity acronyms and definitions.

Understanding the differences between CMMC 2.0 and NIST SP 800-171 Rev. 2 is crucial for organizations enhancing their cybersecurity posture. Both frameworks are essential for assessing maturity in governance, risk management, incident response, data protection, and technology assurance. Adopting these frameworks ensures proactive adaptation to evolving threats and compliance with regulatory standards.

About the Author:

Joe Coleman
Cyber Security Officer
Bluestreak Consulting
Source: Bluestreak Consulting

Joe Coleman is the cybersecurity officer at Bluestreak Compliance, which is a division of Bluestreak | Bright AM™. Joe has over 35 years of diverse manufacturing and engineering experience. His background includes extensive training in cybersecurity, a career as a machinist, machining manager, and an early additive manufacturing (AM) pioneer. Joe presented at the Furnaces North America (FNA 2024) convention on DFARS, NIST 800-171, and CMMC 2.0.

For more information: Contact Joe at joe.coleman@go-throughput.com.

Find heat treating products and services when you search on Heat Treat Buyers Guide.Com

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