#United States #Cybersecurity #Houston #Stress Aerospace #CMMC Level 2

Stress Aerospace & Defense Reaches Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification Level 2

Stress Aerospace and Defense (StressAD), a dedicated subsidiary of Stress Engineering Services, Inc. (SES), has successfully achieved the Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification (CMMC) Level 2. This milestone not only reflects the organization’s strong commitment to safeguarding sensitive government data but also reinforces its standing in the aerospace and defense sectors.

The CMMC is a regulatory requirement established by the U.S. Department of Defense (DoD) aimed at securing Controlled Unclassified Information (CUI) and enhancing national security by instructing all contractors and subcontractors to comply with stringent cybersecurity standards. As cyber threats become increasingly sophisticated, StressAD’s certification is a proactive step in ensuring the integrity of the defense supply chain.

A Two-Year Journey of Compliance and Readiness

The journey toward obtaining this prestigious certification was no small feat. StressAD embarked on this rigorous process approximately two years ago, acknowledging the critical need for compliance with the DoD’s Defense Federal Acquisition Regulation Supplement (DFARS) requirement 252.204-7021. Achieving CMMC Level 2 allows StressAD to manage International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR)-regulated information and other export-controlled data, solidifying its role as a trusted partner in national defense initiatives.

To attain the CMMC Level 2 certification, organizations must implement 110 security controls. StressAD began with a thorough self-assessment to identify gaps in its security structure and, in collaboration with third-party consultants, developed a comprehensive System Security Plan (SSP). This plan includes over 1,000 pages worth of detailed documentation addressing various policies and security protocols.

The Audit Experience and Outcomes

StressAD's final CMMC audit, originally planned for several days, concluded in an unexpectedly shorter time frame, which highlighted the exceptional preparation and dedication of its team. Matt Sanders, the Program Director at StressAD, praised the collaborative effort involved in achieving this significant certification, stating, “Going through the CMMC process was rigorous and required a high level of teamwork from many different departments.” This successful audit showcases the organization’s dedication to protecting and defending national interests.

Achieving CMMC Level 2 certification places StressAD ahead of many in the industry, especially since, at the time of passing its audit, fewer than 100 companies had achieved this remarkable milestone. Bennie Lunsford, StressAD’s Information Security Director, emphasized the ongoing nature of this commitment, “Passing our CMMC audit with top marks just 20 days after the new rules took effect puts us well ahead in the industry. This certification is not a one-time accomplishment; it's an ongoing commitment to our clients’ and our nation’s data and assets.”

To ensure continuous compliance, StressAD has established a governance committee that will conduct quarterly meetings dedicated to monitoring and enhancing its cybersecurity posture with regular audits, risk assessments, and employee training.

Conclusion

Stress Aerospace and Defense is not just meeting regulatory requirements, but setting a standard for excellence in cybersecurity within the aerospace and defense landscape. Their commitment to innovation, reliability, and security ensures their pivotal role in supporting national security efforts and highlights their dedication to maintaining the highest standards of cybersecurity.

For further information about StressAD and its services, visit Stress Aerospace and Defense's official website.