Aetna Forwarding Becomes Long Island’s First Manufacturer to Achieve CMMC Level 2—Through Strategic Collaboration with LIMEP and Stony Brook University

 

Throughout their journey, Aetna Forwarding partnered with Amy Erickson, Executive Director of the Long Island Manufacturing Extension Partnership (LIMEP), to navigate complex certification requirements. Through LIMEP’s CMMC Supplier Cybersecurity Training, consultant vetting, and cost-share funding programs, Aetna gained access to expert resources and guidance that streamlined the 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.”

That collaboration has resulted in a historic milestone: Aetna Forwarding is now the first manufacturer on Long Island to achieve Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification (CMMC) Level 2, a requirement for companies seeking to bid on U.S. Department of Defense contracts containing specific Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR) clauses.

Led by President and CEO Michael Siracusano and CTO Anthony DePaola, the Mineola-based company’s achievement marks a major advancement for Long Island’s defense and aerospace supply chain—and underscores the growing role of LIMEP, part of Stony Brook University, in strengthening the region’s manufacturing cybersecurity posture.

A Regional First with National Implications

CMMC Level 2 certification demonstrates a company’s ability to protect Controlled Unclassified Information (CUI) in accordance with DoD standards. With very few certified firms in the region—and even fewer vetted C3PAOs available to conduct assessments—Aetna’s success represents a breakthrough not only for the company, but for Long Island manufacturers seeking access to defense work. “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.”

LIMEP and SBU: Reducing Barriers, Accelerating Success

Aetna’s path to certification was accelerated through direct engagement with LIMEP’s cybersecurity programs, which are designed to help manufacturers overcome cost, complexity, and resource constraints.

LIMEP:

• Provided 40% cost-share funding toward the total certification effort
• Delivered CMMC Supplier Cybersecurity Training to build internal readiness
• Vetted and connected Aetna with a qualified C3PAO, a critical step given the scarcity of certified assessors
• Engaged Aetna through ADDAPT, LIMEP’s advanced manufacturing and defense-focused network

As New York State’s Manufacturing Extension Partnership center based at Stony Brook University, LIMEP plays a pivotal role in translating federal cybersecurity mandates into actionable, affordable pathways for regional manufacturers.

“This certification doesn’t happen in isolation,” said LIMEP’s Executive Director Amy 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.”

Built on Experience—and a Wake-Up Call

For Aetna, cybersecurity became a priority well before CMMC existed. A ransomware incident in 2016 with previous technical leadership exposed vulnerabilities that prompted a long-term investment in infrastructure, redundancy, and employee training.

“That experience changed our mindset,” DePaola explained. “Cybersecurity isn’t just an IT issue—it’s a company-wide culture.”

The formal CMMC process included extensive self-assessments, mock audits, and a rigorous three-day evaluation. Aetna upgraded secure communications, implemented continuous monitoring, expanded physical security, and introduced ongoing cybersecurity awareness programs for all employees.

A Competitive Advantage for Long Island Manufacturers

With CMMC Level 2 certification in hand, Aetna is now positioned to pursue higher-level DoD contracts while reinforcing trust with existing clients. More broadly, the achievement serves as a proof point for what’s possible when industry partners LIMEP and Stony Brook University.

“This is a roadmap for other manufacturers,” Siracusano said. “If you want to compete in defense, you need to start now—and you need the right partners.”

Looking Ahead

Aetna plans to continue investing in modernization, cybersecurity, and workforce development as federal requirements evolve. Their success sends a clear message:

‘Long Island manufacturers can meet the highest national cybersecurity standards—when supported by the right ecosystem.’

 

From l to r: Anthony DePaola, CTO, Aetna Forwarding, Amy Erickson, Executive Director, LIMEP, Michael Siracusano, CEO, Aetna Forwarding