As cyber threats become more sophisticated and prevalent, organizations must fortify their defenses to safeguard sensitive data and intellectual property. The Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification (CMMC) will be a powerful tool designed to bolster the cybersecurity posture of companies working with the Department of Defense (DoD). At the heart of CMMC lies a crucial component: the Certified CMMC Professional (CCP). In this blog post, we will explore the capabilities of CMMC Certified Professionals, the certification process, and the invaluable services that Registered Practitioner Organizations (RPO) organizations can provide. We also interviewed Brad Schrack, Ingalls Information Security’s Senior Security Analyst and ISO, about his experience obtaining a CCP and what that means for Ingalls clients.
CMMC Certified Professionals are individuals equipped with specialized knowledge and skills related to the CMMC framework. The CMMC model comprises three maturity levels, each with its set of processes and practices that organizations must adhere to for achieving certification. These professionals play a pivotal role in helping businesses navigate the complexities of CMMC compliance, implementation, and continuous improvement.
To become a Certified CMMC Professional, individuals must undergo a rigorous certification process. The process involves the following key steps:
The expertise of Certified CMMC Professionals can significantly benefit organizations operating in defense supply chains and handling sensitive government information. The services they provide include:
CMMC Compliance Assessments
CCPs conduct comprehensive assessments to determine an organization's current cybersecurity maturity level, identifying gaps and vulnerabilities that need to be addressed for achieving certification.
Customized Implementation Plans
CCPs develop tailored cybersecurity strategies that align with the organization's unique needs and risk profile, ensuring that the appropriate security controls are in place.
Training and Awareness Programs
CCPs deliver training sessions to employees, enhancing their understanding of cybersecurity best practices and fostering a security-conscious culture.
Continuous Monitoring and Improvement
Certified CMMC Professionals help organizations establish monitoring mechanisms to detect and respond to cybersecurity incidents promptly. They also assist in updating security measures as threats evolve.
For Ingalls, the addition of a CCP means the Government Programs team can provide clients with more experienced and trained SMEs that are qualified to not only consult on CMMC but assess the CMMC practices. Ingalls’ staff of CCPs will also be eligible to participate on CMMC Third Party assessments as members of CMMC Assessment Teams. In addition, a CCP can sign off on readiness assessments for CMMC level 1, eliminating the need for a third-party assessor.
“As a Certified CMMC Professional (CCP), I will be able to bring this training and experience to all of our CMMC clients as we help them navigate through the DFARS 252.204-7012 and CMMC requirements, “ said Brad Schrack. “At Ingalls, we are dedicated to providing our clients with the most relevant and helpful information and guidance through the early stages of CMMC.”
Ingalls, as a CMMC Registered Practitioner Organization (RPO), has a staff of Registered Practitioners who are dedicated to assist Defense Industrial Base (DIB) companies with all aspects of implementation of a CMMC-compliant program that ensures the security of Federal Contract Information (FCI) and Controlled Unclassified Information (CUI). CMMC’s key objective is to enhance the protection of FCI and CUI within the supply chain. Because you’re likely to handle these information types as a DIB supplier, specific safeguarding requirements are outlined by CMMC to keep them secure. CMMC combines various cybersecurity standards and best practices, making it a comprehensive verification mechanism for effective security.
“At Ingalls, we are early adopters of CMMC,” said Brandi Pickett, Director of Consulting at Ingalls. “Pursuing the CCP is a testament to our commitment in being experts in the CMMC ecosystem and using that knowledge to support DIBs. I’m thrilled Brad Schrack is leading this effort for our Government Programs Team.”
Along with CMMC consulting services, Ingalls Government Programs also offers a full suite of technology-enabled, integrated cybersecurity risk management services including:
CMMC Certified Professionals play an indispensable role in bolstering cybersecurity within organizations involved in the defense sector. With their deep understanding of the CMMC model and expertise in compliance and implementation, CPs guide businesses on the path to achieving and maintaining robust cybersecurity practices. By leveraging the services of CMMC Registered Practitioner Organizations, and associated Registered Practitioners and Certified CMMC Professionals, organizations can ensure they are well-prepared to tackle the ever-evolving landscape of cyber threats while also meeting the stringent cybersecurity requirements set forth by the Department of Defense.