Aircraft Precision Products, Inc.

AIRCRAFT PRECISION PRODUCTS: Cybersecurity Assessment Helps Retain Contracts

Established in 1946, Aircraft Precision Products, Inc. (APPI) employs 60 people in its modern 58,000 square foot facility in Ithaca, Mich. Averaging approximately $14 million in sales annually, APPI (aircraftprecision.net) has long been a leading component supplier to the commercial and military aircraft engine industry. As part of this renowned reputation, APPI has a NADCAP accredited in-house Metallographic testing facility in addition to accredited thermal coating processes. APPI serves customers that provide precision machining, thermal coating and other services in the metalworking industry. APPI's superior quality systems have been recognized by both General Electric and the U.S. Department of Defense (DoD).

Challenge

Just a few years ago, the company shut down for the holidays. Upon returning after the new year, they found they had been victims of a ransomware attack on their exchange servers, as well as their main servers which housed their shared drive. APPI was crippled for a week before they could get their data back and get the facility up and running again.

Solution

APPI turned to the Michigan Manufacturing Technology Center (The Center) - Northeast. The Center-NE worked with APPI to conduct a Cybersecurity Assessment paired with NIST 800-171 guidelines. After the gap assessment was finalized, The Center worked on developing a System Security Plan for APPI. As a result of working with The Center, APPI was able to keep their contracts with the DoD, General Electric and Rolls Royce, who required stringent cybersecurity guidelines. APPI has a strong commitment to continuous improvement with plans for ongoing security upgrades and process improvements.

Results

• Retained Sales: $600k from companies that require NIST 800-171 Guidelines
• Cost Savings: Estimated $60,000 as a result of a decrease in downtime
• Jobs Created: 5
• Jobs Retained: 20