Comprehensive ATO Support for Sensitive Government Projects
Phoenix provides full-lifecycle Authorization to Operate (ATO) support for government contractors, helping them successfully build, secure, certify, and maintain systems required for handling sensitive information. We understand that securing an ATO can be complex and overwhelming — that’s why our mission is to make the process clear, manageable, and aligned with your operational goals, not just regulatory checklists.
Whether you are pursuing a new ATO or renewing an existing one, our support spans every critical phase of the process — from contract interpretation to system sustainment — enabling you to confidently meet mission and compliance requirements.
Service Overview
Gaining and maintaining an Authorization to Operate (ATO) can be a complex, high-stakes process. At Phoenix, we break down the uncertainty with clear, actionable support that aligns security objectives and compliance requirements with contract success. Whether you’re building a new system or renewing a current one, our veteran-led team supports every step — from writing proposals and configuring secure systems to preparing eMASS or XACTA packages and support through ATO approval audits and inspections.
Our ATO Support is designed to go beyond checklists and documentation — we focus on mission alignment, regulatory compliance, and operational functionality to ensure you stay cleared and ready.
What We Deliver
Proposal, SOW, and Contract Assistance
When requested, we help clients draft cybersecurity language for proposals, Statements of Work (SOWs), and related contract documents. Our goal is to ensure that cybersecurity expectations are clearly defined, realistic, and actionable from the start.
Contract and Requirements Analysis
We begin by reviewing DD-254s and related documentation for new contracts. By engaging directly with the client and the sponsoring government agency, we ensure all requirements are accurately captured and understood — preventing misalignment down the road.
System Specification and Procurement Support
We develop detailed specifications for systems, networks, and hardware. When needed, we assist in sourcing TAA-compliant equipment that fits both security and operational criteria — ensuring regulatory compatibility and mission fit.
System Build, Configuration, and Security
Phoenix configures and hardens computers and networked systems to meet stringent security and operational requirements. Our configurations are built on best practices that emphasize real-world functionality as well as formal compliance.
Policy and Documentation Development
We develop system-specific documentation, not templates. Deliverables include:
- System Security Plans (SSPs)
- System Protection Plans (SPPs)
- Managed System Security Plans (MSSPs)
- Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs)
Every document is tailored to your environment and fully aligned with required frameworks.
eMASS and XACTA Package Development
We construct complete ATO submission packages in both eMASS and XACTA. Our packages include:
- Customized control responses
- Test plans and results
- Required policy documents
Supporting evidence
Each submission is designed for completeness, clarity, and approval readiness.
Collaboration with Regulatory Agencies
We work directly with Authorizing Officials (AOs), DCSA, and other oversight bodies during the review process. Through early engagement and transparent communication, we reduce friction, prevent misunderstandings, and accelerate approval timelines.
Pre-Inspection Readiness and Onsite Support
Before formal inspections, we conduct full internal reviews to identify and remediate potential gaps. During inspections, our experts provide onsite support to help your team field technical questions and demonstrate system compliance confidently.
Continuous Monitoring and System Sustainment
Achieving an ATO is only the beginning. We provide long-term support through:
- Ongoing compliance checks
- Periodic reassessments
- Documentation updates
- Change control assistance, ensuring that your system remains compliant as configurations or requirements evolve.
Training and Advisory Services
We deliver targeted training to system owners, users, administrators, and compliance personnel. Our goal is to help your organization gain and retain authorization with confidence and clarity.
We deliver more than checklists and documentation — we provide comprehensive support that drives mission readiness and long-term system compliance.
End-to-End Coverage
From proposal writing to inspection day and beyond, we support every phase of the ATO lifecycle, ensuring nothing falls through the cracks.
Disconnected System Expertise
Backed by over 20 years of hands-on experience, our team specializes in building, securing, and sustaining standalone, air-gapped systems that meet the most stringent government security and compliance standards.
Operational Alignment
We balance regulatory mandates with real-world functionality, so your systems remain both compliant and efficient to operate.
With Phoenix as your ATO partner, you stay mission-ready, audit-ready, and fully aligned with evolving government cybersecurity and compliance expectations.
How do you work with Authorizing Officials (AOs) or agencies like DCSA during the approval process?
We engage with government customers, authorizing officials, and related agencies closely through out the entire ATO process.
Can you assist with eMASS and XACTA submissions?
Absolutely. We build complete digital ATO packages for both platforms, including SSPs, test results, policies, and control responses.
Do you only assist with disconnected or air-gapped system environments?
We can assist with all forms of systems required for government contracting including stand-alone, disconnected, air-gapped, or connections such as SIPRNet.
Security begins with a conversation.
If your contract requires an ATO, don’t go it alone. Phoenix CIA is your trusted partner in navigating compliance, reducing friction, and staying mission-ready.