Categories
Cybersecurity News Professional Education

Leading the Charge to Train Texas Businesses on New Cybersecurity Certification Standards

The U.S. Department of Defense recently released new standards to fortify the defense supply chain by requiring enhanced cybersecurity measures for contractors at every tier.

The new Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification (CMMC) framework includes levels of certification that contractors must attain based on their exposure to sensitive information. This structured approach promotes a uniform and reliable baseline for cybersecurity across all levels of DoD suppliers, reducing vulnerabilities that adversaries might exploit.

SMU is an approved training provider for CMMC-related certifications and will host the Southwest CMMC Implementation Conference February 19-20, 2025, to support businesses navigating these changes.

Texas, a major hub for defense manufacturing and suppliers, will see a substantial impact from the changes, with companies such as Lockheed Martin, Raytheon, and many small-to-midsize suppliers needing to align with the new standards or risk losing business opportunities. Nationwide, approximately 300,000 contractors that work with the DoD will need to meet these updated cybersecurity requirements.

The SMU conference in February will bring industry experts, training sessions, and resources to Dallas, helping businesses across Texas and beyond gain the insights they need to meet CMMC standards effectively.

“There is no more crucial a time in history for us to be prepared in the cybersecurity space to keep our nation safe,” said Regan Edens, SMU instructor and a leading CMMC industry expert. “Through these standards, CMMC aims to establish and sustain trust within the national defense industrial base, creating a more secure and resilient framework to protect national security interests.”

Many smaller organizations in Texas, which often lack the dedicated cybersecurity resources of larger enterprises, will need assistance to meet CMMC requirements. By complying with the new standards, these Texas-based businesses will not only meet the DoD’s strict requirements but will also gain a competitive advantage in an increasingly security-conscious market.

SMU is one of only four universities listed on the CAICO (Cybersecurity Assessor and Instructor Certification Organization) marketplace as an official provider, delivering both in-person and live online training to equip cybersecurity professionals with the skills needed for Certified CMMC Cybersecurity Professional (CCP) and Certified CMMC Assessor (CCA) certifications.

“SMU’s role as an approved training provider allows the University to offer in-person and live online programs for Certified CMMC Cybersecurity Professionals (CCP) and Certified CMMC Assessor Professionals (CCA), equipping participants with the skills they need to ensure their businesses remain compliant,” said Edens.

For more information about the February CMMC conference and SMU training programs and to register, visit our website here.