As cybersecurity threats grow in complexity, so does the demand for expert guidance and implementation support across compliance frameworks. Steel Patriot Partners, a GovRAMP member, brings a distinct, engineering-first approach to cybersecurity implementation, helping state and local governments build secure, audit-ready environments. With deep experience across both FedRAMP and GovRAMP Moderate, the firm is uniquely positioned to support agencies and providers working toward secure cloud adoption. In this spotlight, Steel Patriot Partners shares lessons from the field, practical guidance for navigating GovRAMP, and insights into how collaboration accelerates mission success.
Why did your organization become a GovRAMP member?
Steel Patriot Partners joined GovRAMP to reinforce our commitment to delivering tailored cybersecurity solutions for state and local government environments. Our engineering-first methodology aligns with GovRAMP’s standardized framework and enables us to offer actionable, hands-on support to organizations pursuing authorization.
Our direct operational experience in both GovRAMP and FedRAMP Moderate environments—including through our own Federal ZenGRC SaaS GRC platform—demonstrates our ability to architect and sustain secure environments. Few advisory firms bring this level of depth tp implementation and security enablement.
What advice do you have for other providers progressing through the GovRAMP process?
Approach the process with an engineering mindsent and well-structured plan. Begin by thoroughly reviewingGovRAMP resources and aligning internal teams on what each stage of the journey entails.
Don’t start with paperwork—start with building. Focus on standing up secure, operational controls before documenting them. Writing about controls that don’t yet exist creates friction and slows momentum.
Other tips:
- Engage experienced technical advisors early to avoid delays and pitfalls.
- Use platforms like our Federal ZenGRC (GovRAMP Moderate Ready) to automate evidence collection and control tracking.
- Secure your 3PAO well in advance. Early engagement ensures better preparation and fewer surprises.
How do you stay up to date with the evolving cybersecurity landscape?
We remain closely connected to evolving standards through industry mailing lists, professional networks, and technical conferences. We intentionally participate in communities that align with our clients’ focus areas—particularly NIST-based frameworks like GovRAMP and FedRAMP—to ensure our team is always working from the latest intelligence and requirements.
How has GovRAMP benefited your organization so far?
Though we’re early in our GovRAMP journey, we’ve already seen increased awareness and engagement from public sector stakeholders. As our Federal ZenGRC platform moves towards its Ready status, we anticipate increased traction in 2025 from agencies and providers looking for partners with hands-on experience in implementing GovRAMP-aligned security programs.
What lessons has your organization learned from your GovRAMP journey?
Having completed the FedRAMP process first, we found that transitioning into GovRAMP was a smooth process. One of our biggest takeaways is the importance of early engagement—with GovRAMP, with stakeholders, and with 3PAOs. This upfront coordination helps mitigate timeline risks and provides space to plan strategically. We’ve applied this approach across multiple client systems and expect to submit several new authorization packages later this year.
What cybersecurity events, conferences, or webinars do you recommend?
We recommend attending the following events for those looking to deepen their understanding and expand their network:
- GrrCon
- CuiCon
- BSides
- ISACA events at both the local and national levels
How can others collaborate with your company?
Steel Patriot Partners actively supports collaboration across public and private sector ecosystems. If you’re building secure cloud environments or preparing for authorization, we’d love to connect. Reach us at GovRAMP@steelpatriotpartners.com or cthrough LinkedIn.
Anything else you’d like to share with the GovRAMP community?
Don’t navigate GovRAMP alone. Seek out partners with real-world experience who’ve built and operated systems within these frameworks—not just those who write documentation. The right technical guidance can make a significant difference in your security posture, timeline, and total cost.
Company Description
Steel Patriot Partners provides comprehensive governance, risk, and compliance (GRC) solutions, ensuring organizations meet Federal and non-Federal standards. Taking an engineering-first approach, they offer tailored services, from program management to managed security, delivering actionable results for lasting compliance.
