Disclaimer:

As of 7/13/2026, the Department of War has suspended the CMMC Phase II requirements, which were scheduled to begin on November 10, 2026.

What this means: Third-party certification is paused, but your obligation to protect CUI and maintain strong cybersecurity remains. CMMC Level 1 and Level 2 self-assessments are still required where already in your contracts, along with NIST SP 800-171 compliance and DFARS safeguarding requirements.

Translation: You were given more time to study for the test. Don’t waste it.

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They Passed. Here's How They Did It.

What does a successful CMMC 2.0 assessment really look like?

In this episode of 2W Conversations, we sit down to unpack a real-world CMMC success story, following a manufacturing organization from preparation through assessment and ultimately to a successful audit outcome.

We discuss the challenges they faced, the steps they took to strengthen their cybersecurity posture, and the practical lessons learned along the way. More importantly, we explore what other defense contractors and manufacturers can take away from the experience as they prepare for their own compliance journey.

You'll hear insights on:

-Building a strong cybersecurity foundation

-Preparing for a CMMC assessment without creating unnecessary complexity

-Common pitfalls organizations encounter during the process

-The value of documentation, processes, and organizational buy-in

-Why compliance should be viewed as an outcome of strong security practices, not just a checkbox exercise

The regulatory landscape may continue to evolve, but one thing remains unchanged: organizations handling Controlled Unclassified Information (CUI) must maintain strong cybersecurity practices and protect sensitive data.

Whether you're just beginning your CMMC journey or working toward certification, this episode offers practical guidance from a team that successfully navigated the process.

Listen in to hear what worked, what they learned, and what they'd do again.

Resources:

Webinar: https://2wtech.com/resource/webinar-cmmc-2-0-what-it-really-means-how-to-prepare/

CMMC 2.0 for Dummies: https://2wtech.com/resource/cmmc-2-0-for-dummies/

Our Role in CMMC 2.0: https://2wtech.com/resource/2w-techs-role-in-cmmc-2-0/

#CMMC #CMMC2 #Cybersecurity #DefenseManufacturing #NIST800171 #Compliance #ManufacturingIT #DefenseIndustrialBase

In this episode of 2W Conversations, we dive into how Gen Z and Millennials are breaking workplace stereotypes and reshaping the professional landscape. I’m joined by Colleen and Alex, two dynamic team members at 2W, as we discuss the misconceptions surrounding younger generations in the workforce. We explore themes like adaptability, work-life balance, and the impact of technology, challenging the notion that these traits reflect a lack of work ethic. Instead, we highlight how these generations are driven, resourceful, and eager to learn—striving for alignment with their values and fostering innovation. Join us for an insightful conversation on how embracing these new perspectives can lead to a more inclusive and effective workplace culture.

Unlock the secrets to successful technology adoption in organizations. In this episode, discover why buy-in is more than just a "yes," how to overcome resistance, and the critical roles that drive change—from executive sponsors to frontline users. Hear practical strategies, real-world analogies, and actionable tips for navigating ERP, AI, and managed services transitions. Perfect for leaders and change agents seeking to drive lasting impact and avoid common pitfalls.

Join Danielle and Rachel, 2W’s Microsoft Alliance Manager, for a candid conversation about what a Microsoft Alliance Manager really does—and how Rachel’s work makes a real impact for our clients.

Kinetic Custom Cloud. Powered by 2W Tech, Sold by Epicor, and Built on Microsoft Azure for Enterprise-Grade Security and Reliability.

Join Danielle as she sits down with Tom, CTO at 2W Technologies, INC., as he describes a new cloud offering for your Epicor ERP, Custom Cloud.

They discuss the recent Epicor announcement regarding the future release of 2028.1, being the final on-prem release that will include new features and updates, and the options customers have:

1) Remain on-prem and receive active support through 2029, then transition to sustaining support with limited technical and application assistance.

2) Migrate to Epicor SaaS

3) Migrate to a Custom Cloud environment.

Reach out to us to start your migration plan, or with any questions!

[email protected] / (262) 686 5070 / 2WTech.com

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2W Conversations is a collection of conversations where we dive deep into popular tech topics. We bring together the brightest minds from inside and outside of 2W Technologies, INC. Our experts share their knowledge, insights, and experience in areas such as Azure, Business Intelligence, Modern Workplace solutions, and Epicor Kinetic ERP systems. Find us wherever you listen to your podcasts.

Join Danielle as she sits down with Robb Marr, Director of Corporate IT at DNP Imaging America, to discuss the challenges and strategies behind integrating acquisitions, modernizing IT infrastructure, and balancing security with innovation. Robb shares insights on ERP integration, automation initiatives, managing evolving technology expectations, and the importance of transparency and partnership in IT leadership.

In this episode, Mark, our President & CEO, takes us behind the scenes of how our latest webinar series, Modern Shop Floor, came to life. Discover the inspiration, planning, and vision that drove the creation of this innovative series, designed to empower manufacturers with actionable strategies and insights to thrive in today’s ever-evolving shop floor environment.

Tune in now to get an exclusive look at the journey from idea to execution!

P.S. Watch the webinar series here: https://2wtech.com/resource/modern-shop-floor-series-s1-building-the-foundation-with-it-infrastructure/

In the spirit of Halloween and Cybersecurity Awareness Month, I brought in some people who have seen it all! Jared, Alex, Tom, and Mark sit down and share their IT horror stories. It's the perfect mix of experiences from their personal life and past clients.

This episode is packed with real-life IT horror stories, technical mishaps, and lessons learned. The team shares unforgettable anecdotes—from catastrophic data loss and ransomware close calls to servers stored in showers and lunchrooms, and network outages caused by painters and old microwaves. Hear how poor planning, ignoring backups, and skipping MFA led to expensive disasters, and get practical tips to avoid becoming the next cautionary tale.

Whether you’re an IT pro or want to keep your business safe, this episode delivers expert advice, laughs, and a reminder: cybersecurity is everyone’s responsibility!

Join Danielle and Zach Eikenberry, CEO and co-founder of Hook Security, as they dive into cybersecurity awareness, phishing prevention, security training, and the impact of AI on modern cyber threats. Discover how humor, psychology, and innovative training methods are transforming security culture for managed service providers and small businesses. Perfect for IT leaders, MSPs, and anyone interested in the future of cybersecurity education.

Connect with Zach: https://www.linkedin.com/in/zbey/

Learn more about Hook Security: https://www.hooksecurity.co/

Connect with 2W: https://linktr.ee/2wtech

In this episode of 2W Conversations, we delve into the intersection of Business Intelligence (BI) and Artificial Intelligence (AI) from an executive's perspective. Mark, our President & CEO, shares insights on how he leverages BI tools like Power BI to track key performance indicators, sales forecasts, and service level agreements. Discover the importance of data in decision-making and how real-time dashboards empower leadership to swiftly identify challenges. We also explore the practical applications of AI in enhancing research, content creation, and operational efficiency. Join us as we outline the evolving role of data-driven strategies in today's fast-paced business landscape and how they can transform organisational performance.

Want to learn more? Watch this webinar: https://youtu.be/PdGCxvoLDsA