top of page
Search

What to Know About Cleared AWS and C2S Experts

  • Element X
  • Jul 23
  • 2 min read

As federal agencies and the intelligence community continue migrating to secure cloud environments, the demand for cleared AWS and C2S experts has surged. These professionals represent a specialized intersection of cloud engineering, cybersecurity, and national security clearance—and they’re essential to mission-critical programs in today’s digital defense landscape.


If you're exploring support for a secure cloud transformation, here’s what you should know about this elite talent pool:


ree

☁️ What Is C2S?

Commercial Cloud Services (C2S) is the U.S. Intelligence Community’s (IC) secure cloud platform, developed in partnership with Amazon Web Services (AWS). It provides scalable, secure computing and storage capabilities tailored to classified workloads. Built to operate within Top Secret environments, C2S enables:

  • High-speed data analysis

  • Secure communication

  • Real-time collaboration across agencies


More recently, the IC has begun transitioning to IC GovCloud (IC-Gov)—its next-generation multi-cloud environment—but C2S remains active in many mission-critical operations.


👤 Who Are Cleared AWS and C2S Experts?

These are cloud professionals—architects, developers, engineers, and DevSecOps specialists—who are not only AWS certified, but also hold active U.S. security clearances (typically TS/SCI or higher). Their unique qualifications include:

  • Deep understanding of AWS services within air-gapped and isolated environments

  • Proficiency in Infrastructure as Code (IaC) tools like CloudFormation or Terraform for classified deployments

  • Compliance with FedRAMP, NIST, and ICD 503 frameworks

  • Experience with secure enclave configuration, STIG hardening, and continuous ATO (cATO)


🧠 Why Their Expertise Matters

  1. Cloud Migration in Classified DomainsTraditional IT personnel often lack the necessary clearance or cloud proficiency to work in classified networks. Cleared AWS experts can architect and migrate secure workloads into C2S, SC2S, or IC GovCloud environments—ensuring compliance, efficiency, and minimal disruption.

  2. Mission-Driven InnovationThese professionals work closely with DoD and IC agencies to deploy advanced solutions like AI/ML pipelines, data lakes, and Zero Trust architectures—all within highly restricted networks.

  3. Security and Compliance from the Ground UpWith knowledge of both AWS services and classified compliance regimes, they help eliminate the risks of misconfigured infrastructure—one of the top causes of cloud data exposure.


🔍 What to Look for When Hiring

If your agency or prime contract needs cleared AWS or C2S expertise, look for talent with:

  • Active clearance (TS/SCI with poly preferred)

  • AWS certifications (e.g., Solutions Architect – Pro, Security – Specialty)

  • Experience deploying in C2S or IC GovCloud environments

  • Familiarity with secure DevOps, CI/CD pipelines, and classified change control processes

  • Understanding of cross-domain solutions (CDS) and data tagging within classified environments


🛡️ How ElementX Can Help

At ElementX, we specialize in cleared technical services and secure cloud enablement. Our network includes certified AWS professionals with Top Secret clearances, hands-on experience in C2S and IC GovCloud, and a mission-first mindset. Whether you’re supporting a federal program, scaling intelligence infrastructure, or navigating cATO, we deliver the trusted expertise you need.

 
 
bottom of page