Established over 30 years ago in Frederick, Colorado, MBK Machine, currently under the ownership of Stacee and D’Wayne Cook since their acquisition in 2014, has evolved into a leading high-precision CNC machining provider. Originally with four employees, the company has grown substantially to employ 28 skilled professionals. Specializing in smart solutions and precision machining, MBK caters to various production needs, including small and large quantities, prototypes, and research and development projects. The Cooks, along with their highly qualified technical team, collaborate closely with clients to provide optimal solutions for each job.

In the dynamic realm of cybersecurity compliance, machine shops across the nation, including several in Colorado, have grappled with the formidable challenges posed by the Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification (CMMC) requirements. The stringent nature of these standards has exerted immense pressure on businesses, leading to closures or the selling of operations as entrepreneurs found it increasingly difficult to navigate the complex landscape of cybersecurity protocols. Recognizing the critical importance of adapting to these new requirements, MBK Machine, a stalwart in the industry, acknowledged the need for expert assistance to not only ensure compliance but also to safeguard their operations against the potential risks associated with non-compliance.

In response to this pressing need, MBK Machine proactively sought the expertise of their local MEP Center. Leveraging the services of Manufacturer’s Edge, MBK Machine underwent a comprehensive cybersecurity evaluation, marked by a meticulous gap assessment. This evaluation served as the foundation for formulating a strategic project plan tailored to MBK’s unique needs and challenges. The cybersecurity expert from Manufacturer’s Edge provided invaluable guidance throughout the process, steering MBK Machine through the intricacies of compliance requirements. Through this collaborative effort, not only did MBK Machine successfully achieve and maintain compliance with the CMMC standards, but they also fortified their resilience against the industry-wide challenges that have compelled other machine shops to close their doors.

The collaboration with Manufacturer’s Edge has proven to be transformative for MBK Machine, with the cybersecurity compliance project yielding an enormous impact on their operations. The decision to become compliant not only safeguarded the company’s existence but also positioned it for expansion. In an industry where numerous Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs) are severing ties with non-compliant suppliers, MBK Machine’s commitment to cybersecurity compliance has been a strategic advantage. Rather than facing the risk of being dropped by OEMs, MBK has not only retained existing contracts but has also secured new ones. MBK Machine’s success story serves as a testament to the transformative power of embracing and navigating the challenges of cybersecurity compliance in a rapidly evolving industrial landscape.

“Manufacturer’s Edge in Colorado has helped us obtain new customers and helped us to keep existing customers by working with us to implement NIST cyber security compliance measures that we do not internally have the knowledge or skills to implement. Manufacturer’s Edge has been a great help to us and our team.”

– Stacee Cook, Vice President, MBK Machine