For contractors in the Department of Defense (DoD) supply chain, cybersecurity is not just a technical requirement, it’s a national security priority. That’s why the Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification (CMMC) was introduced: to enforce standardized security protocols across all defense contractors, especially those handling Controlled Unclassified Information (CUI). Among the most demanding requirements for CMMC Level 3 is the need to counter Advanced Persistent Threats (APTs) , stealthy, targeted attacks often backed by nation-states. To meet this challenge, organizations must go beyond firewalls and encryption. They need a cyber-aware workforce trained to recognize, respond to, and mitigate complex threats as they unfold. That’s where advanced threat awareness training becomes critical.
It equips employees with the knowledge and skills needed to detect sophisticated cyberattacks and helps fulfill one of the essential Level 3 compliance requirements, creating a human firewall against evolving threats.
APTs differ from common cyber threats in their persistence, targeting, and sophistication—often state-sponsored, they aim to stealthily infiltrate systems and extract sensitive data over time. Meeting this challenge demands more than technical safeguards, CMMC Level 3 mandates a cyber-aware workforce capable of detecting and responding to complex threats in real time. That’s where advanced threat awareness training becomes a cornerstone of compliance and long-term cyber resilience.
Understanding CMMC Level 3 and NIST 800-172 Alignment
CMMC Level 3 is the most rigorous certification level in the CMMC 2.0 framework. CMMC Level 3 builds on the 110 security controls from NIST SP 800-171, which form the foundation of Level 2, by adding enhanced protections from NIST SP 800-172. These additional safeguards help organizations defend against advanced persistent threats (APTs) by emphasizing not just prevention, but also detection, response, and recovery.
While Level 1 and Level 2 may allow for self-assessments or third-party audits, Level 3 requires a government-led assessment conducted by the Defense Industrial Base Cybersecurity Assessment Center (DIBCAC). To pass, organizations must demonstrate more than just technical compliance—they must also prove that their personnel are trained to recognize and respond effectively to advanced cyber threats.
The Human Element in Advanced Threat Defense
Cybersecurity isn’t just about firewalls and encryption, it’s about people. In fact, human error remains one of the most exploited vulnerabilities, particularly when it comes to APTs. Sophisticated attackers often use tactics like spear phishing, social engineering, and insider manipulation to bypass even the most advanced technical safeguards.
To address this challenge, NIST SP 800-172 emphasizes the importance of deep threat awareness training across all organizational roles. It’s not enough for only IT or security teams to understand the risks. Instead, executives, managers, and operational staff must also play an active role in defending against threats that could compromise critical systems or sensitive data. As a result, organizations need to foster a security-first culture—one where employees are regularly educated on emerging threat tactics, updated on organizational policies, and fully aware of their individual responsibilities in upholding security standards.
What Advanced Threat Awareness Training Must Include
To meet the demands of today’s threat landscape, training programs aligned with CMMC Level 3 and NIST SP 800-172 must go beyond basic security awareness. Specifically, they need to address the behaviors and tactics commonly used by advanced persistent threats (APTs). In addition, employees must develop a clear understanding of how APTs operate, how their own actions can unintentionally aid these threats, and what immediate steps they should take in response.
Effective training covers several key domains:
- Threat Intelligence and APT Behavior: Employees must be educated on how APTs infiltrate systems and establish persistence over time. This includes studying real-world case studies and attacker methodologies.
- Insider Threat Awareness: Train personnel to recognize and report suspicious behavior—even among trusted colleagues—since APTs often involve internal compromise through malicious insiders or stolen credentials.
- Operational Security (OPSEC): Training must emphasize how small lapses—discussing sensitive projects in public, failing to secure mobile devices, or clicking on seemingly benign links—can open doors to threat actors.
- Simulated Attacks and Red Team Exercises: Scenario-based training immerses employees in realistic threat simulations, helping them develop muscle memory for swift, informed responses under real-world pressure. These exercises are essential for internalizing protocols and reinforcing quick thinking.
- Secure Communication Practices: Train employees to use encrypted channels, avoid sharing sensitive information over personal devices, and follow secure remote work policies—especially since many APTs exploit insecure communication practices.
Organizations should not treat training as a one-time event. Ongoing education, with frequent refreshers and evolving content based on current threat intelligence, is key to sustained compliance and security.
Implementing a Threat-Aware Culture
Meeting the CMMC Level 3 threat awareness training requirements requires more than checking a box. It involves building a culture where every team member understands their part in protecting the organization from high-level threats.
This culture starts with leadership buy-in. To set the tone, executives must lead by example—actively participating in training and consistently communicating the importance of security across all levels of the organization. Furthermore, security awareness should be integrated into daily operations, whether through regular cybersecurity briefings, visual reminders, or the enforcement of secure communication protocols.
Equally important, organizations must implement systems to evaluate the effectiveness of their training programs. Metrics such as participation rates, simulation outcomes, and post-training incident reductions offer valuable insights into areas where additional education or reinforcement may be necessary.
Finally, documentation plays a critical role. In a government-led assessment, detailed records of training logs, course materials, and performance data demonstrate both compliance and a proactive commitment to cybersecurity readiness.
Why Working with a CMMC Partner Like RSI Security Matters
Navigating the full scope of CMMC Level 3 compliance, especially the complex training requirements—is no easy feat. Partnering with a trusted advisor like RSI Security provides the strategic insight and hands-on support needed to build a training program that satisfies both regulatory requirements and real-world threat demands.
The CyberAB has officially certified RSI Security as a Certified Third-Party Assessment Organization (C3PAO), authorizing us to conduct official CMMC Level 2 assessments for defense contractors handling Controlled Unclassified Information (CUI).
As a longstanding Registered Practitioner (RP) and Registered Provider Organization (RPO), we’ve spent years guiding organizations through the complexities of the CMMC framework. Now, as a fully accredited C3PAO, we not only help businesses prepare for certification—we deliver the assessments required to meet DoD contract eligibility.
As your CMMC advisory partner, RSI Security helps you:
- Understand how NIST SP 800-172 impacts your training and security controls
- Develop a tailored threat awareness training program aligned with Level 3 requirements
- Close critical compliance gaps and build long-term readiness for government-led assessments
- Navigate evolving DoD mandates and documentation standards with confidence
Our team brings extensive experience supporting Defense Industrial Base (DIB) organizations, offering strategic guidance that simplifies compliance and strengthens your security posture—before the audit ever begins.
Secure the Human Layer of Defense
CMMC Level 3 is more than just a certification; it represents a deeper commitment to national security—specifically, the protection of sensitive information from advanced, persistent threats. Achieving compliance, therefore, requires more than implementing technical controls. It also demands a workforce that can recognize and respond to today’s increasingly complex threat landscape.
For this reason, advanced threat awareness training is essential. It’s not a luxury—it’s a strategic necessity for organizations serious about defense contracting and long-term cybersecurity. By investing in continuous education for your team, you not only build a stronger human firewall but also enhance your organization’s eligibility for high-value Department of Defense (DoD) opportunities.
Don’t wait to strengthen your defenses. Take the next step toward full CMMC Level 3 readiness. Contact RSI Security today to implement advanced threat awareness training and prepare your team for even the most sophisticated cyber threats.