Aetna Forwarding has become the first manufacturer on Long Island to achieve Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification (CMMC) Level 2, following a collaboration with the Long Island Manufacturing Extension Partnership (LIMEP) at Stony Brook University. This certification is required for companies that want to bid on U.S. Department of Defense contracts containing specific Federal Acquisition Regulation clauses.
The company worked closely with Amy Erickson, executive director of LIMEP, to meet the complex requirements of CMMC Level 2. Through LIMEP’s cybersecurity training, consultant vetting, and cost-share funding programs, Aetna Forwarding received guidance and resources that helped streamline its certification process.
“Working with LIMEP opened doors,” said Chief Technology Officer Anthony DePaola. “We connected with experts, learned from others going through the same process and used available resources to offset costs. Don’t miss that opportunity — work with LIMEP and use their tools.”
President and CEO Michael Siracusano and CTO Anthony DePaola led the Mineola-based company in this effort. Their achievement highlights an advancement for Long Island’s defense and aerospace supply chain while also emphasizing LIMEP’s role as part of Stony Brook University in supporting manufacturing cybersecurity in the region.
CMMC Level 2 certification shows a company can protect Controlled Unclassified Information according to Department of Defense standards. Few firms in the area have obtained this certification or have access to certified third-party assessment organizations (C3PAOs). Aetna Forwarding’s success could help other manufacturers in Long Island gain entry into defense contracting.
“CMMC will define who competes and who doesn’t,” said Siracusano. “This isn’t optional anymore. It’s about protecting our customers, our contracts and our future.”
“This certification doesn’t happen in isolation,” said Erickson. “It requires technical expertise, trusted partners and financial support. Our role is to make sure Long Island manufacturers don’t face those challenges alone.”
More details are available on the LIMEP website.
