How Covenant Optimized IT for Manufacturing Research
Client Overview
- Industry: Advanced Manufacturing & Research & Development
- Size: 32 employees, supporting industry-leading partners and research initiatives
- Location: Headquartered in Scappoose, Oregon
- Core Services: Applied research in additive and subtractive manufacturing, prototyping, product testing, and workforce development
The Client
The Oregon Manufacturing Innovation Center (OMIC) is a leading research and development hub in Oregon. It brings together industry leaders, higher education, and government agencies to tackle complex manufacturing challenges.
Since 2012, OMIC has pioneered advanced manufacturing with expertise in additive (3D printing) and subtractive (CNC machining) manufacturing processes. Their mission is to strengthen Oregon’s metals manufacturing sector while attracting global partners for research and innovation.
However, OMIC faced significant IT challenges that slowed innovation—until Covenant Technology Solutions (Covenant) stepped in.
The IT Challenges Holding OMIC Back
When Covenant began working with OMIC R&D in late 2021, the organization faced several operational and IT-related hurdles, including:
- Self-Reliance on IT: OMIC R&D relied on a patchwork system managed by staff with limited technical expertise, which consumed time and resources for research and development.
- Fragmented Network Infrastructure: OMIC R&D’s network included a mix of outdated and homegrown solutions that created inefficiencies and limited scalability.
- Security Concerns: Without enterprise-grade solutions, OMIC R&D faced challenges ensuring data security and meeting compliance requirements for prospective Department of Defense (DoD) and other federal projects.
- Lack of Strategic IT Planning: A cohesive IT roadmap hindered OMIC R&D’s ability to align its technology infrastructure with its growth and research objectives.
Sound familiar? Many R&D and manufacturing companies face similar IT roadblocks that hinder progress and security.
Covenant: A Strategic Partner
Recognizing the need for a tailored, hands-on approach, Covenant provided OMIC R&D with:
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On-Site Support and Expertise
Unlike the previous MSP, Covenant committed to regular on-site support, ensuring swift responses to IT challenges. This included bi-weekly visits by a dedicated technician and ongoing project oversight.
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Fractional CIO Leadership
Employing a fractional CIO, OMIC R&D gained access to strategic IT leadership, ensuring the alignment of technology initiatives with organizational goals.
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Modern Network Infrastructure
Covenant transitioned OMIC R&D to an enterprise-grade network using Fortinet firewalls, access points, and switches, replacing the patchwork system with a scalable, secure solution.
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Enhanced Security and Compliance
Covenant guided OMIC through the implementation of security frameworks to prepare for potential DoD projects and federal funding opportunities, including plans to build a GCC High tenant.
Client Testimonial: A Strategic IT Partnership
Covenant is more than a vendor—they are a true partner. Their hands-on approach and commitment to understanding our unique needs have been instrumental in transforming our IT infrastructure. With Covenant’s support, we’ve achieved a level of security, scalability, and operational efficiency that allows us to focus on what we do best—innovating in manufacturing research and development.
— Carter Varn, Fractional CIO, OMIC R&D
Looking Ahead: A Future-Proofed Foundation for Growth
As OMIC grows, Covenant remains a vital partner in enabling its success. Upcoming initiatives include:
- Implementing a GCC High Tenant – Ensuring compliance with federal project requirements.
- Exploring AI-Driven Tools – Leveraging Microsoft Copilot to enhance administrative efficiency.
- Enhancing IT Security – Strengthening cybersecurity frameworks to support high-stakes research initiatives.
- Scaling IT Infrastructure – Expanding cloud solutions to accommodate future growth and innovation.
This strategic partnership ensures that OMIC R&D’s IT systems evolve alongside its ambitions, paving the way for continued innovation and impact. For research and development organizations seeking to optimize their IT infrastructure, OMIC R&D’s experience with Covenant serves as a powerful example of what’s possible with the right strategic partner.
The Impact: What OMIC Gained from the Covenant Partnership
- Faster Issue Resolution: On-site support eliminated IT bottlenecks.
- Scalable IT Infrastructure: Future-proofing for DoD projects & federal funding.
- Stronger Cybersecurity: A secure, compliant environment ready for high-stakes research.
- More Time for Innovation: OMIC’s team can now focus on R&D, not IT troubleshooting.
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Your Business Deserves IT Solutions That Scale & Secure
If you’re in manufacturing, research, or engineering and struggling with IT bottlenecks, security risks, or scalability issues, Covenant can help.
Let’s discuss how we can optimize your IT strategy.