CMMC Compliance for Architecture, Engineering, and Construction (AEC)
AEC (Architecture, Engineering, & Construction) companies working with DoD contracts face a critical challenge: CMMC compliance without disrupting operations.
You’re dealing with sensitive data—drawings, specs, and ITAR/EAR-controlled info—across teams, subs, and shared IT environments.
Top CMMC Pain Points in AEC
Tool Compatibility
Run Autodesk, Revit, Bluebeam, Procure in a compliant environment.
Multiple CUI Types
Meet rules for CTI, OPSEC, ITAR, EAR—no non-U.S. access.
Subcontractor Isolation
Learn to keep trades like drywall and tile installers outside CMMC scope.
Enterprise Segmentation
Split off defense work from commercial operations and if needed global/shared IT.
Speed to Cert
Get compliant fast, without sacrificing accuracy.
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Our team of certified experts are ready to speak with you about your needs.
Options for AEC
Enclave
Segmented, secure workspace for small CUI teams.
- Microsoft Gov Cloud + virtual desktops
- Runs full engineering suite
- Connects to local plotters, printers
- Fast to deploy, low overhead
Ideal for: Organizations with a small defense/federal practice
All-In Approach
Move the entire org to a compliant environment.
- Full migration to Microsoft Gov Cloud
- Covers desktops, servers, logging
- One system, no swivel seating
- Includes licensing, setup, support
Ideal for: Firms scaling defense contracts or Fed-first
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Frequently Asked Questions
How do we protect technical drawings and schematics classified as CUI?
Any file that contains export-controlled specs, design schematics, or technical data related to DoD contracts can be considered Controlled Unclassified Information (CUI). These files must be stored and shared only within CMMC-compliant environments like GCC High or Azure Government. Access should be limited to authorized personnel—often U.S. persons if ITAR applies. Encryption, access logging, and physical security measures (such as file vaulting for hard copies) are also required to demonstrate full compliance.
Can we use third-party vendors like heat treatment or plating shops without violating CMMC?
Potentially, but it depends on what they access. If these vendors are exposed to drawings, specs, or part numbers that qualify as CUI, they fall in scope under your CMMC obligations. Even if they only perform services like heat treating, the flow of controlled data must be considered. If CUI is shared, the vendor must either be part of your CMMC enclave or independently certified at the appropriate level. Supply chain risk management and flow-down enforcement are critical.
What’s the best way to scope an ERP system used in manufacturing?
ERP systems are only out of scope if they truly don’t process, store, or transmit CUI. If the ERP links to CUI documents but does not hold them, it may be excluded. However, if it contains technical data (e.g., part specs or export-controlled details), even if not explicitly labeled, it is considered in scope. Misclassifying ERP systems is a common pitfall, and assessors will scrutinize these connections. Always validate with a proper CUI scoping engagement before excluding systems.
How can we protect sensitive drawings and specifications shared with subcontractors?
You must enforce strict control of all CUI shared externally. This includes encrypting files in transit and at rest, using FedRAMP-authorized platforms, and ensuring access is limited to U.S. persons if ITAR applies. Additionally, you must include CMMC flow-down language in contracts, verify your subcontractors’ compliance posture, and maintain records of what data was shared and when. Without proper control, even a well-meaning subcontractor can create significant compliance risk.
Does GCC High support the types of CAD and CAM software we use?
Most CAD/CAM workflows can be supported in a GCC High environment, but third-party integrations may be limited. Microsoft GCC High is FedRAMP High and ITAR compliant, but not all commercial plug-ins or automation tools will work as expected. Careful planning is needed to ensure compatibility. File storage, version control, and identity management are handled securely, but native support for high-end CAD collaboration tools should be tested and validated early.
Can we achieve CMMC Level 2 certification while still using legacy machines or software?
Yes, but you’ll need to implement compensating controls. Legacy systems often lack native support for modern logging, access control, or patching. You’ll need to isolate them within the enclave, restrict network access, monitor their activity with external tools, and document any gaps along with how they’re mitigated. Simply having older systems doesn’t disqualify you—but assessors will expect a clear plan for securing and monitoring them under NIST SP 800-171.
What’s the best enclave design approach for small manufacturers?
Start with a narrow, scoped enclave that only includes systems and personnel who handle CUI. This allows you to protect critical data without overhauling your entire infrastructure. Summit 7 specializes in building these right-sized enclaves, often using Microsoft GCC High or Azure GovCloud environments to create isolated and compliant workspaces. Proper scoping prevents overinvestment and ensures clarity during assessments.
How does using a private equity firm affect our compliance status?
If the private equity firm—or its employees—access your CUI systems or influence security decisions, they are considered External Service Providers (ESPs) and must meet compliance requirements. This was highlighted in a $1.75 million False Claims Act settlement, where a PE firm was penalized for providing access to foreign nationals without proper authorization. Even passive oversight can carry risk if it includes system visibility, data access, or policy influence.
Do ITAR and CMMC both apply to manufacturing, and how do they overlap?
Yes, frequently. ITAR governs the control of defense-related technical data, and that data is almost always classified as CUI. If you handle ITAR-controlled content, you must comply with both ITAR personnel restrictions (U.S. persons only) and CMMC Level 2 requirements for handling CUI. ITAR violations carry severe penalties—including criminal charges—so your CMMC strategy must be aligned with export control compliance from day one.
How can we future-proof our compliance posture without overhauling all systems?
Start by implementing Organization-Defined Parameters (ODPs) and updated practices from NIST SP 800-171 Rev 3—even though it’s not required yet. Focus on building your enclave architecture, documenting inherited controls from providers like Summit 7, and assigning internal responsibility for each control. Using GCC High or Azure GovCloud gives you a scalable platform, and a phased approach with strong documentation ensures that as requirements evolve, you’re already aligned.
"Working with Summit 7 brings instant credibility. When I’m interviewing with a big-name defense contractor, and their security audit team asks deep questions, as soon as I tell them we’re working with Summit 7, there’s a sigh of relief in the room.
– Matt Gustafson, President of Clinkenbeard
Clinkenbeard Gains CMMC Confidence and Credibility with Primes
Clinkenbeard is a contract manufacturer, working on high-complexity parts for aerospace, defense, and commercial industries.
The company's IT infrastructure, although robust, lacked the specific cybersecurity controls necessary to meet CMMC standards. After initially working with another IT provider, Clinkenbeard realized they needed a more specialized partner capable of handling CMMC compliance.
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