Barge Design Solutions Achieves Major Cybersecurity Certification Enhancing Its Defense Capabilities

Barge Design Solutions Reaches CMMC Level II Certification

In a significant milestone for cybersecurity in the defense sector, Barge Design Solutions, a reputable engineering and architecture firm, announced its achievement of Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification (CMMC) Level II. This notable accomplishment comes after a detailed third-party assessment conducted by Cybersec Investments on August 12, 2025. Barge is now recognized among an elite group of firms that have proactively secured this certification before the government-imposed deadline aimed at protecting sensitive federal information and complying with the U.S. Department of Defense (DoD) standards.

The CMMC framework was designed to enhance cybersecurity across the Defense Industrial Base, ensuring that companies are equipped to protect Controlled Unclassified Information (CUI). By successfully achieving this level of certification, Barge demonstrates its robust operational practices, security processes, and corporate culture focused on safeguarding critical data that is instrumental to federal contracts and partnerships.

According to Carrie Stokes, President and CEO of Barge, "Achieving CMMC Level II certification represents more than just meeting compliance standards; it reflects our steadfast commitment to our clients and their missions. The trust that our federal partners place in us for pivotal work is of utmost importance, and this certification asserts our readiness to operate with the highest integrity and security."

Barge's path to this achievement was characterized by a multi-year, organization-wide initiative that involved IT specialists, compliance experts, and federal program professionals. Collaboration with leading cybersecurity firms was crucial in facilitating this monumental step. Notably, CyberSheath, an esteemed provider in IT security services, contributed by offering managed services that maintained Barge's security controls ensuring alignment with CMMC Level II requirements. Their efforts included ongoing compliance monitoring and efficient management of the technical infrastructure necessary for maintaining a secure working environment.

The evaluation for the certification conducted by Cybersec Investments involved an extensive review process, which included comprehensive documentation, interviews with staff, and in-depth testing to verify adherence to all 110 security controls outlined in the NIST SP 800-171 framework. Following the assessment, Cybersec affirmed Barge’s compliance and awarded the certification, validating Barge’s accomplished preparatory measures and operational capabilities.

In the words of Chris Brown, Senior Vice President and Director of Federal at Barge, "This achievement underscores the rigorous dedication and discipline of our teams. Meeting the CMMC Level II requirements necessitates constant proofs of effective security controls across all systems. Through diligent processes, comprehensive training, and meticulous documentation, we are committed to making compliance enduring and robust. Our clients can trust that we effectively protect their information every day."

With the attainment of CMMC Level II certification, Barge Design Solutions is positioned to broaden its competitive edge for federal contracts, thereby fortifying its esteemed role as a reliable partner to defense and government entities. The company is committed to upholding this certification with ongoing monitoring, scheduled third-party assessments, and continuous executive oversight to ensure higher levels of operational security and reliability.

About Barge Design Solutions

Barge Design Solutions, Inc. is recognized as a pioneering engineering and architecture firm dedicated to enhancing client and community experiences across its various projects and operations. The firm operates with a workforce exceeding 650 employee-owners and boasts a versatile set of multidisciplinary practice areas, serving clients across the nation from multiple locations. Barge has earned a place on Engineering News-Record’s (ENR) 2025 Top 500 Design Firms list, ranking at position 160. For additional information, visit bargedesign.com, and engage with them on LinkedIn, Instagram, Facebook, and Threads.

About CyberSheath

Founded in 2012, CyberSheath is a recognized leader in providing IT security services tailored to the U.S. defense industrial base. Their offerings encompass a comprehensive suite aimed at fulfilling clients' information security and regulatory compliance requirements, including assistance with CMMC compliance, strategic security planning, and managed security services. To learn more, visit cybersheath.com.