Mitchell Laboratories

Background

Mitchell Laboratories, a manufacturing company with only 10 management employees before having an IT and MSP Provider, initially sought assistance from our company with hosting their website before 2002. Over the years, their collaboration with the Department of Defense necessitated a significant evolution in their IT infrastructure and security measures.

Challenges Faced

Initially engaging in break-fix solutions, Mitchell Laboratories gradually realized the importance of robust cybersecurity measures as their relationship with the Department of Defense deepened. With increasing regulatory requirements and the need for heightened security, they faced challenges in upgrading their systems while ensuring uninterrupted operations.

Solution Implementation

Beginning with basic IT services such as firewall replacement and email setup, we transitioned Mitchell Laboratories to a comprehensive maintenance contract in 2002, encompassing on-site support, antivirus protection, and server maintenance. Over the years, we guided them through significant upgrades, including the implementation of on-premise servers, hosted exchange servers, and stricter security protocols.

As their operations expanded, we facilitated the integration of new sites through site-to-site VPNs and improved internal communication with LAN messaging. In 2015, we introduced hyper visualization, reducing reliance on physical servers and enhancing redundancy with fail-over servers. Subsequent upgrades included the adoption of a hosted VoIP phone system and advanced security measures to meet compliance requirements.

Continued Evolution

Post-2015, Mitchell Laboratories continued their journey of technological advancement and security enhancement through us. The implementation of a hosted VoIP phone system in 2017 streamlined communication channels, while increased government compliance regulations prompted the adoption of even more aggressive security measures.

In 2019, with the introduction of Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification (CMMC) compliance, Mitchell Laboratories found themselves at the forefront of cybersecurity standards. Dealing with Controlled Unclassified Information (CUI) devices, they relied on our expertise to ensure adherence to stringent security protocols, including two-factor authentication and security awareness training for employees.

Adapting to Changing Times

The onset of the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020 presented new challenges for Mitchell Laboratories. With employees transitioning to remote work, the need for robust cybersecurity measures became more critical than ever. Leveraging VPNs and two-factor authentication, we ensured secure access to company resources, while comprehensive security awareness training helped mitigate potential risks associated with remote work.

In 2021, as the threat landscape continued to evolve, Mitchell Laboratories took proactive steps to enhance their security posture. Implementing dual internet providers (Dual WAN) and advanced security measures such as Security Information and Event Management (SIEM) and zero-trust applications, we fortified their defenses against cyber threats, ensuring uninterrupted operations and safeguarding sensitive data.

Benefits Achieved

Through our partnership, Mitchell Laboratories successfully met the stringent requirements of the Department of Defense and government regulations, positioning themselves for lucrative contracts and sustained growth. Enhanced security measures bolstered their defense against cyber threats, leading to increased productivity and operational efficiency.

With approximately 60 employees, including 35 warehouse staff with access to email, Mitchell Laboratories has experienced significant growth, with our IT solutions playing a crucial role in supporting their expansion. By minimizing downtime and ensuring robust security, we have contributed to driving innovation and efficiency within their workplace.

Conclusion

The journey of Mitchell Laboratories exemplifies the transformative impact of strategic IT solutions in driving organizational growth and resilience. By continuously adapting to evolving challenges and implementing cutting-edge technologies, we have played a pivotal role in empowering our client to thrive in a competitive industry while meeting stringent regulatory requirements. As they continue to evolve and expand, we remain committed to supporting their journey towards continued success in the dynamic landscape of cybersecurity and manufacturing.