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CMMC 2.0 Readiness Playbook for Maryland Contractors

The Department of Defense’s Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification (CMMC 2.0) is no longer optional — it’s a requirement for doing business with the federal government.

If you’re a Maryland-based contractor or subcontractor — from engineering to IT support — your readiness will soon determine whether you can bid or renew contracts.

This guide simplifies CMMC 2.0 so you can understand the new expectations and start building a compliant defense today.

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1 Understanding CMMC 2.0 Levels

CMMC 2.0 simplifies the original five levels into three:

-Level 1 – Foundational: Basic cyber hygiene (NIST 800-171 subset).  

- Level 2 – Advanced: Full NIST 800-171 controls required for handling CUI (Control Unclassified Information).  

- Level 3 – Expert: Based on NIST 800-172, for Top Secret work or critical DoD programs.  

Most Maryland contractors fall under Level 2 — meaning you need a documented, assessable security program.

2️ Why Readiness Matters Now

DoD has announced CMMC clauses will start appearing in contracts in FY 2025.  

That means vendors that aren’t ready may lose eligibility to compete.  

Kemeski Systems helps contractors map their current controls against CMMC requirements to find gaps before assessors do.

3️ Core Steps to CMMC 2.0 Readiness

Step 1: Assess Your Environment  

Perform a self-assessment or third-party gap analysis using the NIST SP 800-171A framework.  

Step 2: Remediate Weaknesses  

Fix identified gaps through MFA, encryption, access control, and continuous monitoring.  

Step 3: Document Everything

Your System Security Plan (SSP) and Plan of Action & Milestones (POA&M) prove compliance — without them, you’re not ready.  

Step 4: Engage a vCISO or Compliance Partner

Leadership matters. A Virtual CISO ensures you align technology with DoD expectations and stay audit-ready.

4️ Maryland’s Advantage — Local Resources & Support

Maryland offers several programs for CMMC readiness:  

- Maryland Defense Cybersecurity Assistance Program (DCAP) – grants for CMMC consulting.  

- TEDCO & AAEDC funding support for cyber compliance projects.  

- Local partners including UMGC and CMMC AB-registered practitioners for training.

Leverage these to offset cost and accelerate compliance.

5️ How Kemeski Systems Helps

Our CMMC Readiness Bundle™ gives contractors everything needed to prepare confidently:  

✔️ CMMC Gap Assessment & Remediation Plan  

✔️ vCISO Oversight & Documentation Review  

✔️ Continuous Monitoring

✔️ Compliance Mapping to NIST SP 800-171  

✔️ Evidence Templates & Audit Support  

All with transparency, simplicity, and halal-compliant business ethics.

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📅 Ready to prove your readiness?  

Schedule a free consultation →

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