CMMC Certified RPO

CMMC Cybersecurity Compliance Certification

Petronella Technology Group is a CMMC Registered Practitioner Organization (RPO) with the Cyber AB. Our certified practitioners help defense contractors achieve CMMC 2.0, NIST SP 800-171, and DFARS compliance.

The DoD Is Enforcing Cybersecurity Compliance

For years, defense contractors were required to self-attest their compliance with NIST SP 800-171 under DFARS 252.204-7012. The problem was clear: self-attestation was not working. The guidelines in NIST SP 800-171 are highly effective when properly implemented, but without verification, most contractors remained non-compliant while continuing to handle Controlled Unclassified Information (CUI).

CMMC was created to solve this problem. By requiring independent third-party assessments for Level 2 contractors handling critical national security CUI, the DoD ensures that cybersecurity controls are actually implemented -- not just claimed on paper. The final CMMC rule (32 CFR Part 170) was published in October 2024, making compliance a contractual reality.

Defense contractors throughout the Research Triangle Park (RTP) corridor and across North Carolina must act now. With CMMC requirements phasing into contracts starting in 2025, the time to begin preparation is today.

DFARS, NIST, and CMMC 2.0: How They Connect

Understanding the relationship between these frameworks is essential for compliance planning:

  • DFARS 252.204-7012 is the contract clause that requires contractors to implement NIST SP 800-171 and report cyber incidents within 72 hours. It has been in effect since December 2017.
  • NIST SP 800-171 Rev 2 contains the 110 security requirements that form the foundation of CMMC Level 2. These requirements cover 14 security domains including Access Control, Incident Response, and System and Communications Protection.
  • DFARS 252.204-7019 and 7020 require contractors to conduct NIST SP 800-171 self-assessments and post their scores to the Supplier Performance Risk System (SPRS). SPRS scores range from -203 to 110.
  • CMMC 2.0 adds third-party verification to what was previously a self-reported process. Level 2 assessments are conducted by CMMC Third-Party Assessment Organizations (C3PAOs) authorized by the Cyber AB.

Your Path to CMMC Certification

PTG has developed a structured approach to prepare defense contractors for CMMC 2.0 certification.

  1. CMMC Readiness Assessment: We evaluate your current cybersecurity posture against all 110 NIST SP 800-171 requirements, document your SPRS score, and identify every gap that must be closed before your C3PAO assessment.
  2. System Security Plan (SSP) Development: We create or update your SSP to accurately document your system boundary, CUI data flows, and the implementation status of every security requirement.
  3. Remediation and Implementation: Our team implements the technical controls, policies, and procedures needed to close identified gaps. This includes access controls, encryption, audit logging, incident response planning, and security awareness training.
  4. POA&M Management: For requirements that cannot be immediately implemented, we develop Plans of Action and Milestones with realistic timelines and track progress to completion.
  5. Pre-Assessment Review: Before your formal C3PAO assessment, we conduct a mock assessment to verify readiness, identify any remaining issues, and ensure your documentation is complete and accurate.
  6. Assessment Support: We provide support during your C3PAO assessment, helping your team answer assessor questions and locate evidence of control implementation.

PTG CMMC Services

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CMMC Retainer Services

Ongoing compliance management with a dedicated CMMC Registered Practitioner assigned to your account.

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Gap Analysis

Detailed readiness assessment against CMMC Level 1, 2, or 3 requirements with prioritized remediation roadmap.

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Cybersecurity Stack

Multi-layered security architecture designed to satisfy CMMC technical requirements across all 14 domains.

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CMMC Virtual Workspace

Secure enclave environment for CUI processing that reduces your assessment boundary and simplifies compliance.

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Secured Hosting

FedRAMP-equivalent hosting infrastructure for contractors needing compliant cloud environments for CUI.

Who Must Comply with CMMC?

CMMC applies to every organization in the DoD supply chain, including:

  • Prime contractors with direct DoD contracts involving FCI or CUI
  • Subcontractors at any tier who handle FCI or CUI as part of contract performance
  • IT service providers and managed service providers that process, store, or transmit CUI on behalf of defense contractors
  • Cloud service providers hosting CUI for defense contractors (must meet FedRAMP Moderate equivalency)
  • Manufacturers and suppliers who receive technical drawings, specifications, or other CUI from prime contractors

The Raleigh-Durham area is home to numerous defense contractors serving installations like Fort Liberty (formerly Fort Bragg), Camp Lejeune, and defense agencies operating in the Research Triangle. PTG understands the unique compliance needs of Triangle-area contractors.

CMMC Compliance FAQ

What is CMMC 2.0 certification?

CMMC 2.0 is a DoD cybersecurity framework that requires defense contractors to have their cybersecurity practices verified before receiving contracts. It has three levels: Level 1 (Foundational, 17 practices), Level 2 (Advanced, 110 practices from NIST SP 800-171), and Level 3 (Expert, NIST SP 800-172 requirements). Verification is done through self-assessments or independent third-party assessments depending on the level and contract type.

When does CMMC go into effect?

The final CMMC rule (32 CFR Part 170) was published in October 2024 with an effective date of December 16, 2024. CMMC requirements are being phased into DoD contracts over four phases starting in 2025, with full implementation expected by 2028.

What is the difference between an RPO and a C3PAO?

A Registered Practitioner Organization (RPO) like PTG helps contractors prepare for CMMC by conducting gap analyses, implementing controls, and building documentation. A C3PAO conducts the formal assessment that results in CMMC certification. The separation ensures assessment independence and objectivity.

Do I need CMMC if I only handle FCI?

Yes. If your contract involves Federal Contract Information (FCI), you need at minimum CMMC Level 1, which requires implementation of 17 basic safeguarding practices from FAR 52.204-21 and annual self-assessment. If your contract also involves CUI, you will need Level 2 or Level 3.

What is the SPRS score requirement?

Under DFARS 252.204-7019 and 7020, contractors handling CUI must submit a NIST SP 800-171 self-assessment score to SPRS. Scores range from -203 (no controls implemented) to 110 (all controls fully implemented). While there is no minimum SPRS score mandated by regulation, contracting officers can use the score in source selection decisions.

Can PTG help with both NIST and CMMC compliance?

Absolutely. Since CMMC Level 2 is directly aligned with NIST SP 800-171, achieving NIST compliance is the foundation of CMMC preparation. PTG addresses both frameworks simultaneously, ensuring your NIST implementation satisfies CMMC assessment requirements.

What are POA&Ms and are they allowed under CMMC?

Plans of Action and Milestones (POA&Ms) document security requirements that are not yet fully implemented along with a timeline for completion. CMMC 2.0 allows limited use of POA&Ms -- organizations must close all POA&M items within 180 days of their conditional certification. Certain critical requirements cannot have POA&Ms.

How does PTG serve defense contractors in the Triangle area?

Headquartered in Raleigh, NC, PTG provides in-person and remote CMMC compliance services to defense contractors throughout the Research Triangle, Fayetteville/Fort Liberty corridor, and eastern North Carolina. Our proximity to major defense installations and RTP gives us deep understanding of the local defense industrial base.

Get CMMC 2.0 Certified

Take the first step toward CMMC compliance with a free consultation from our certified Registered Practitioners.

Schedule Your Free Consultation Call us: 919-348-4912

5540 Centerview Dr., Suite 200, Raleigh, NC 27606

Why Choose Petronella Technology Group

Petronella Technology Group has been a trusted IT and cybersecurity partner for businesses across Raleigh, Durham, Chapel Hill, Cary, Apex, and the Research Triangle since 2002. Led by CEO Craig Petronella, an NC Licensed Digital Forensics Examiner (License# 604180-DFE), CMMC Certified Registered Practitioner, Cybersecurity Expert Witness, Hyperledger Certified, and MIT-certified professional in cybersecurity, AI, blockchain, and compliance, PTG brings deep expertise to every engagement.

With BBB accreditation since 2003 and more than 2,500 businesses served, PTG has the experience and track record to deliver results. Craig Petronella is an Amazon number-one best-selling author of books including "How HIPAA Can Crush Your Medical Practice," "How Hackers Can Crush Your Law Firm," and "The Ultimate Guide To CMMC." He has been featured on ABC, CBS, NBC, FOX, and WRAL, and serves as an expert witness for law firms in cybercrime and compliance cases.

PTG holds certifications including CCNA, MCNS, Microsoft Cloud Essentials, and specializes in CMMC 2.0, NIST 800-171/172/173, HIPAA, FTC Safeguards, SOC 2 Type II, PCI DSS, GDPR, CCPA, and ISO 27001 compliance. Our forensic specialties include endpoint and networking cybercrime investigation, data breach forensics, ransomware analysis, data exfiltration investigation, cryptocurrency and blockchain analysis, and SIM swap fraud investigation.

Frequently Asked Questions

What compliance frameworks does PTG help businesses implement?
PTG helps businesses implement and maintain compliance with a wide range of frameworks including CMMC 2.0, NIST 800-171 and 800-172, HIPAA, FTC Safeguards Rule, SOC 2 Type II, PCI DSS, GDPR, CCPA, and ISO 27001. Our compliance consultants work with organizations in Raleigh, Durham, and the Research Triangle to assess current gaps, develop remediation roadmaps, implement required controls, create policy documentation, and prepare for third-party audits or assessments. We take a unified approach that addresses multiple frameworks simultaneously to reduce duplication of effort.
How long does it take to achieve compliance certification?
The timeline varies significantly depending on the framework, organization size, and current security maturity. HIPAA compliance can often be achieved in three to six months with dedicated effort. CMMC Level 2 certification typically requires six to twelve months of preparation. SOC 2 Type II requires a minimum audit observation period of six months. ISO 27001 implementation generally takes six to twelve months. PTG helps organizations develop realistic timelines and prioritize the most critical controls to achieve compliance as efficiently as possible while building a sustainable long-term security program.
What happens if a business fails a compliance audit?
Failing a compliance audit can result in financial penalties, loss of business contracts, reputational damage, and in some cases, legal liability. HIPAA violations can result in fines ranging from one hundred dollars to fifty thousand dollars per violation, up to one and a half million dollars annually per violation category. CMMC non-compliance means losing eligibility for Department of Defense contracts. PCI DSS non-compliance can result in increased transaction fees and loss of payment processing capabilities. PTG helps businesses avoid these consequences through thorough pre-audit preparation, gap assessments, and continuous compliance monitoring.
What is the difference between SOC 2 Type I and Type II?
SOC 2 Type I evaluates the design of your security controls at a specific point in time, providing a snapshot of your security posture. SOC 2 Type II evaluates both the design and operating effectiveness of your controls over a period of time, typically six to twelve months. Type II is considered more rigorous and valuable because it demonstrates that your controls consistently work as intended over an extended period. Most enterprise clients and partners require SOC 2 Type II reports when evaluating vendors. PTG helps organizations prepare for and maintain both types of SOC 2 compliance.
Can one compliance framework satisfy multiple regulatory requirements?
Yes, many compliance frameworks share overlapping controls and requirements. Implementing NIST 800-171 provides a strong foundation for CMMC 2.0 compliance. ISO 27001 maps to many SOC 2 and HIPAA requirements. The NIST Cybersecurity Framework aligns with virtually all other frameworks. PTG takes a unified compliance approach, helping organizations implement controls that satisfy multiple frameworks simultaneously. This integrated strategy reduces duplication of effort, lowers costs, and creates a more cohesive security program that addresses all applicable regulatory requirements without redundant processes or documentation.

The PTG Compliance Process

Achieving and maintaining regulatory compliance requires a structured, repeatable process. PTG has developed a proven compliance methodology refined over more than two decades of helping businesses navigate complex regulatory requirements. Our process begins with a comprehensive gap assessment that evaluates your current policies, procedures, and technical controls against the specific requirements of your target framework. This assessment identifies exactly where your organization stands and what needs to be done to achieve compliance.

Following the gap assessment, PTG develops a prioritized remediation roadmap that outlines every action item needed to close identified gaps. We categorize items by risk level and effort required, allowing organizations to address the most critical deficiencies first while planning for longer-term improvements. Our consultants work alongside your team to implement technical controls, develop required policies and procedures, create employee training programs, and establish the documentation and evidence collection processes needed to demonstrate compliance during audits and assessments.

Compliance is not a one-time project but an ongoing commitment. Regulations evolve, threats change, and business environments shift. PTG provides continuous compliance monitoring services that track your compliance status in real time, alert you to emerging gaps, and ensure that your security controls remain effective. We conduct regular internal audits, update policies as regulations change, and prepare your organization for external audits or assessments. Our goal is to make compliance a natural part of your business operations rather than a periodic scramble to meet audit deadlines.

For organizations subject to multiple compliance frameworks, PTG takes a unified approach that maps overlapping requirements across frameworks. Rather than implementing separate programs for each regulation, we build a comprehensive security and compliance program that satisfies multiple requirements simultaneously. This integrated approach reduces costs, eliminates redundant processes, and provides a clearer picture of your overall security and compliance posture, making it easier to manage ongoing obligations and demonstrate compliance to auditors, clients, and business partners.

Ready to Get Started?

Contact Petronella Technology Group today for a free consultation. Serving Raleigh, Durham, Chapel Hill, and the Research Triangle since 2002.

919-348-4912 Schedule a Free Consultation

5540 Centerview Dr., Suite 200, Raleigh, NC 27606