CMMC Level 2: From the Frontlines of Cybersecurity
The climb towards achieving CMMC Level 2 certification isn’t just a technical milestone. It’s a transformational journey for any organization that ascends this difficult compliance mountain. In this episode of Climbing Mount CMMC, Kaleigh Floyd, Adam Evans, and Bobby Guerra breakdown Axiom’s firsthand experience navigating the complexities of CMMC from the perspective of a Managed Service Provider (MSP).
This was in no way an easy feat. It was a test of our systems, team, documentation, and our resilience as a business. Here are some of the key lessons we shared that every business leader and CMMC decision-maker should take to heart:
1. Mock Assessments Are Invaluable for CMMC Level 2 Compliance
Before Axiom’s official assessment, our team conducted a mock audit. Which, we explained, made all the difference. These dry runs exposed gaps in our systems, gave us space to correct errors, and built up the confidence that we needed to approach the real audit with clarity and direction.
2. Auditors Are Allies
It’s easy to approach auditors with apprehension, but understanding the auditor’s role and building a collaborative relationship was critical to our success. Auditors want you to succeed, and their insights can strengthen your framework far beyond the actual audit itself.
3. Self-Assessment Is Ongoing
CMMC isn’t something you “achieve and forget.” It requires constant reflection, system monitoring, and updates. Self-assessment needs to become part of your organizations culture. Businesses are also required to attest to their level 2 compliance yearly.
4. Documentation Is Everything for CMMC Level 2
Compliance doesn’t come from verbal assurances; it lives in your documentation. Every system, control, and policy must be traceable, defensible, and clearly documented. This should also outline your evidence.
5. Expect Human Error-and Plan for It
Even the most seasoned teams make mistakes. What matters most is how you identify, document, and resolve them. We reminded others seeking assessment that perfection isn’t the goal, resilience and adaptability are.
6. Understand Your Client’s Needs
This CMMC journey pushed our team to think beyond internal systems. We had to align our compliance approach with client needs, customizing solutions while still maintaining strict cybersecurity protocols.
Reflect, Learn, and Improve
For any organization pursuing CMMC certification, especially other MSPs supporting federal clients that handle CUI, this conversation was a powerful reminder: compliance is not just a destination, it’s a discipline.
If you’re on the path to CMMC Level 2, check out the full episode or visit our website for more information on how you can get compliant.