In a special episode of Climbing Mount CMMC, Kaleigh Floyd and Bobby Guerra host Chris and Hannah Silvers, the father-daughter team behind CG Silvers Consulting. Together, the duos explore the unique challenges and opportunities facing cybersecurity professionals that are navigating the complex landscape of Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification (CMMC).
This insightful conversation offers real-world engagement into working within the cybersecurity industry, the evolving demands of CMMC compliance, and the powerful role of family and mentorship in building professional confidence and success.
Key Takeaways from the CMMC Consulting Conversation
This episode uncovers a wealth of information about the world of CMMC consulting and the realities of building a new business model in a highly regulated environment:
- CMMC is a rapidly changing field: Professionals must remain flexible and informed to navigate constant changes in standards and requirements. The CMMC framework is not static, many of the regulations and processes are continuing to shift.
- Community is critical: Building strong relationships within the CMMC ecosystem provides much needed support and knowledge sharing. Communicating with consultants, Managed Service Providers (MSPs), and peers helps companies share knowledge and learn from each other’s experiences.
- MSPs face unique challenges: Adapting traditional MSP services to meet CMMC requirements often feels like starting from scratch. They must rethink their service models entirely to meet the specific security and documentation requirements demanded by CMMC. This often feels like starting a whole new business.
- The sales process is complex: Selling CMMC consulting services isn’t about pushing products; it’s about educating clients. Clients need to understand why CMMC compliance is necessary, how the process works, and what investments are required. Building trust and credibility is essential to closing deals.
- NIST 800-171 and 171A disconnect remains: Many organizations continue to struggle with understanding the difference between implementing security controls (171) and demonstrating compliance through assessment objectives (171A). This disconnect creates challenges both in preparation and in passing an assessment.
- Effective client communication is crucial: Clients are often overwhelmed by CMMC requirements. Consultants and MSPs must prioritize clear, patient communication to guide them through the compliance journey and build long-term trusted partnerships.
- Navigating the C3PAO landscape requires balance: Getting certified by a Certified Third-Party Assessment Organization (C3PAO) is not a simple task. Organizations must carefully select assessors, prepare thoroughly, and remain flexible as unexpected challenges may arise during assessments.
- Certification is unpredictable but rewarding: No two certification paths are exactly the same. While setbacks are common, perseverance through the process results in valuable knowledge, stronger security postures, and a deeper understanding of compliance.
Axiom: The Partner for Your CMMC Journey
As we discussed in this episode, choosing the right partner for CMMC consulting can make all the difference. And at Axiom, we understand the real-world operational, technical, and business challenges that come alongside with CMMC requirements, because we’ve lived it.
If you’re a federal contractor working with Controlled Unclassified Information (CUI) looking to start your CMMC climb, Axiom is here to help guide you every step of the way. We will always be sure to provide you with hands-on support, clear communication, and a proven path to compliance.
And if you’re an MSP with federal contracting clients unsure how to handle CMMC, let’s partner up.
Reach out to us today and begin your climb to compliance with confidence.