Conference Description
Key Takeaways
- Dedicated to CMMC compliance for defense contractors and their supply chains within the Defense Industrial Base
- Brings together organizations seeking certification, RPOs, C3PAOs, solution providers, and government officials
- Covers assessment preparation, System Security Plan development, risk management, and compliance strategy
- Features workshops, technical training, roundtables, structured vendor meetings, and an exhibit hall
- Designed for CISOs, compliance professionals, MSPs, MSSPs, and executives in defense contracting
About CS5 East 2026
CS5 East 2026 is a multi-day, in-person conference focused on Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification compliance for organizations in the Department of Defense supply chain. The event serves as a meeting point for the complete CMMC compliance ecosystem, connecting defense contractors and subcontractors with registered practitioner organizations, certified third-party assessor organizations, technology vendors, and government representatives.
The conference format combines expert-led sessions with hands-on training workshops, roundtable discussions, live demonstrations, and structured networking opportunities. An Express Connect program facilitates one-to-one meetings between attendees and vendors, while an exhibit hall showcases compliance solutions and services.
CMMC Compliance Challenges for Defense Contractors
Organizations in the Defense Industrial Base face significant pressure to achieve and maintain CMMC certification to remain eligible for DoD contracts. The certification process requires understanding evolving regulatory requirements, preparing for formal assessments, developing comprehensive System Security Plans, and implementing appropriate technical controls. Many contractors struggle to navigate these requirements while managing ongoing business operations and existing cybersecurity responsibilities.
CS5 East addresses these challenges through practical education on compliance strategy, risk management approaches, and assessment preparation. Sessions cover both technical implementation and executive-level decision making, helping organizations select appropriate partners, tools, and methodologies for their compliance programs.
Technologies and Solutions
The conference features vendors and sponsors offering GRC tools, compliance automation platforms, managed security services, and cloud security solutions. Notable exhibitors include Cyber AB, FutureFeed, Summit 7, Secureframe, IntelliGRC, Ntiva, Coalfire, Carahsoft, Coretek, and Edwards Performance Solutions.
Who Should Attend
CS5 East is designed for professionals responsible for CMMC compliance within defense contracting organizations. This includes CIOs, CISOs, IT managers, risk managers, and cybersecurity consultants working in the DoD supply chain. The event also serves compliance professionals, managed service providers, managed security service providers, cloud providers, RPOs, and C3PAOs. Executive and leadership tracks address strategic concerns for decision makers in defense and government contracting organizations.