In this episode of IT Unplugged, Mike and Brandon dive deep into Microsoft Office Protect - the powerful security add-on that's becoming mandatory for M2 Technology clients. Discover how this affordable tool can prevent email breaches, detect suspicious login attempts, and stop malicious rule creation before damage occurs. We break down real-world examples of how attackers compromise Microsoft 365 accounts, why traditional security measures sometimes fail, and how Office Protect provides that critical extra layer of protection with minimal user impact.

Learn why proper DNS configuration, multi-factor authentication, and responsive monitoring create the perfect security stack for email protection. We share a minute-by-minute account of how our team detected and remediated a breach in just three minutes, potentially saving a client from serious financial and reputational damage. If you're concerned about email security or wondering if someone might already have unauthorized access to your inbox, this episode is essential viewing.

In this essential episode, we sit down with cybersecurity expert Mike to break down everything small and medium-sized businesses need to know about CMMC (Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification) compliance. If you work with the Department of Defense or its supply chain, this conversation is critical for your business survival.
Mike walks us through:
What CMMC 2.0 is and why it matters for your business
The three compliance levels and which one your company needs
Practical steps to prepare for assessment without breaking the bank
Common pitfalls that could cost you government contracts
How to integrate CMMC requirements into your existing IT security framework

Stop viewing compliance as just another checkbox! Learn how proper CMMC implementation can actually strengthen your overall security posture and protect your business from increasingly sophisticated cyber threats.
Whether you're just starting your CMMC journey or looking to refine your approach, this episode provides actionable insights that will save you time, money, and stress.
CMMC Certification Guide | DoD Cybersecurity Requirements | Government Contracting | DFARS Compliance | NIST 800-171 | Defense Industrial Base | IT Security Standards | Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification 2.0 | Federal Contractor Requirements | Supply Chain Security | CMMC Assessment | DIB Cybersecurity | CUI Protection | FCI Data | Government Compliance | Pentagon Contractors | DoD Supply Chain | CMMC Accreditation | Cybersecurity Framework | Small Business IT Security | Defense Contractors | CMMC Controls | Federal Acquisition Regulation | CMMC Self-assessment

We sit down with Ann Franz, Executive Director of the NEW Manufacturing Alliance (NEWMA), to discuss innovative strategies for addressing the manufacturing skills gap. Ann shares how NEWMA has successfully built powerful partnerships between manufacturers and educational institutions to create a sustainable talent pipeline.

Discover practical insights on:

-How to develop effective industry-education collaborations that actually work.
-Strategies for attracting young talent to manufacturing careers
-Building apprenticeship and training programs that meet real industry needs
-The future of manufacturing workforce development in a digital economy
-Creating regional solutions to manufacturing talent shortages

Whether you're a manufacturing leader struggling with workforce challenges, an IT professional supporting the industry, or an educator preparing students for future careers, this conversation provides actionable takeaways to help bridge the skills gap and strengthen American manufacturing.