FluxWorks, Inc. (“FluxWorks”) is a Texas-based small business, founded in 2021 that seeks to commercialize multiple magnetic gear technologies developed at Texas A&M University. They specialize in creating dual-use, reliable, safe and effective products with a commitment to technical excellence and attention to detail. Their core values, relationship, team, quality of work, drive their company culture, business practices and inspire a collaborative and integrity focused environment.
The Situation
DFARS 252.204-7012 initially allowed companies to self-attest that they met DoD minimum cybersecurity requirements in alignment with NIST SP 800-171 (Rev 2). However, in November 2020, DFARS 252.204-7019 and DFARS 252.204-7020 were introduced to ensure more accurate reporting of cyber security compliance. These new requirements provided a higher confidence level that companies submitted more accurate information about their cybersecurity compliance to the DoD. To comply, companies must maintain a System Security Plan (SSP) and a Plan of Action and Milestones (POAM) for addressing any deficiencies. These additional DFARS requirements include entering a Supplier Performance Risk System (SPRS) score in the Procurement Integrated Enterprise Environment (PIEE). This is a legal requirement for a Defense Industrial Base (DIB) company to be able to handle controlled unclassified information (CUI) when doing business with the DoD, DoD suppliers and/or space applications.
FluxWorks had already secured multiple Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) contracts and was aiming to expand into larger contracts and obtain follow on funding. However, a significant obstacle was meeting the requirements of all applicable DFARS. To address this challenge, FluxWorks proactively reached out to TMAC for assistance.
The Solution
FluxWorks engaged TMAC to perform a gap assessment, which helped establish a strategic plan for achieving full compliance. TMAC addressed some of these gaps and referred FluxWorks to a third-party company, Assessivate, to close the remaining ones. This process brought FluxWorks to a compliance level typically seen in more established Defense Industrial Base (DIB) companies. As a result, FluxWorks was able to confidently post its SPRS score on the PIEE website, supported by the necessary documentation to validate its cybersecurity compliance.
The Results
FluxWorks landed a $2M dollar contract with the U.S. Army which allowed them to expand their workforce by 37 percent. This additional work will also allow them to upscale their manufacturing capabilities to a new 9,000 sq. ft. facility. The new facility will increase capacity for not only this contract but also for future contracts.
Their innovative proprietary technology in conjunction with meeting the cybersecurity minimum requirement positions them for very rapid growth and expansion in the DoD and space marketplace.
In recognition for their compliance, TMAC presented FluxWorks with a plaque during their ribbon cutting ceremony at their new facility in Conroe, Texas.
- Cybersecurity Compliance
- Landed a $2M dollar contract with the U.S. Army
- 37% increase in job creation
- Moved to a larger facility
Working with TMAC jumpstarted our journey toward full NIST SP 800-171 compliance. Their initial gap assessment established a strong baseline and ensured we were well-prepared when engaging a third-party company to implement our cybersecurity policies and controls. Additionally, TMAC has been instrumental in planning and executing our new 9,000-square-foot facility, which will create new jobs and manufacturing opportunities in Conroe, TX.
Kyle Maier
Planning & Execution Manager
