University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee Moves Towards Level 2 DoD Cybersecurity Certification

The University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee (UWM) continues to strengthen its position within federal research allocations by achieving Level 1 Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification (CMMC) and setting its sights on achieving Level 2 certification by November 2026. This advancement positions UWM to qualify for more advanced projects and funding through the Department of Defense (DoD), allowing the institution to better collaborate with defense-tech industries, particularly in southeastern Wisconsin. The CMMC is a critical framework of cybersecurity standards mandated for entities engaged with the DoD, ensuring that sensitive, non-classified information is properly safeguarded. This strategic development not only supports UWM’s research capabilities but also fosters economic resurgence in the regional square, potentially triggering job growth within the defense sector - currently supporting approximately 16,000 jobs in Wisconsin.

UWM earned its Level 1 CMMC certification in January 2026, reflecting essential security protocols aimed at protecting research data. As UWM is one of only two R1 universities in Wisconsin, it is now raising the bar with a clear focus on Level 2 certification, which calls for significant investments in advanced cybersecurity infrastructure. Notably, achieving Level 2 will necessitate the establishment of secure laboratory environments and dedicated data enclaves for controlled information processing, marking a vital step toward compliance with DoD’s stringent cybersecurity requirements.

This progression towards compliance is not merely administrative; it’s a strategic move aimed at unlocking opportunities for UWM’s faculty and partners. With federal grants and DoD funding becoming increasingly competitive, obtaining Level 2 certification will grant UWM access to a plethora of research projects that require adherence to more complex cybersecurity protocols, thereby excluding non-certified institutions from competition for these federal opportunities. The benefits have ripple effects throughout the local economy, especially considering that collaborations between UWM and local businesses, particularly in sectors such as energy, advanced manufacturing, and controls, will flourish as federal funding becomes available. Moreover, it aligns the capabilities of UWM with the innovation needs of local defense contractors and suppliers who will seek capability enhancement through partnerships.

There is a compelling narrative surrounding UWM’s commitment to cybersecurity, as articulated by Ali Abedi, UWM’s Vice Chancellor for Research: "CMMC certification creates a framework where universities, industry partners and the federal government can work together more effectively and securely." This sentiment underlines the central importance of cybersecurity in fostering innovation while protecting sensitive research data. UWM’s move to CMMC Level 2 is more than just regulatory - it is a strategic initiative designed to amplify their impact in defense-related research projects, solidifying their role as a key partner in national security initiatives.

Proactively engaging in research that supports crucial federal initiatives is already underway at UWM. Notably, Rob Cuzner, a professor of electrical engineering and director of the Center for Sustainable Electrical Energy Systems, leads projects supporting the U.S. Navy's ambition for next-generation all-electric vessels. This line of effort exemplifies how UWM's quest for enhanced cybersecurity competency can seamlessly intertwine with national objectives, ultimately leading towards more innovative and practical solutions in defense technologies.