Poa&M Mastery: Risk Management & Compliance Execution

POA&M, RMF: Writing, Prioritizing, Managing Findings

What you'll learn

What a POA&M actually is — beyond textbook definitions When you must create a POA&M (and when you don't)

When you must create a POA&M (and when you don't)

How to properly document weaknesses, assign milestones, and track corrective action

How to prioritize risks intelligently and build plans that auditors and Authorizing Officials (AOs) trust

How to document risk acceptance correctly (and when it’s the right move)

How to avoid common POA&M mistakes that cause delays or audit failures

How to maintain a healthy, audit-ready POA&M program over the long term

Hands-on examples of vulnerability, documentation, and risk acceptance POA&Ms

Requirements

A basic understanding of cybersecurity concepts like threats, vulnerabilities, and controls is recommended.

amiliarity with NIST 800-53 or the RMF lifecycle will help but is not required.

You’ll need a computer with internet access and the ability to open Word and Excel files.

No prior RMF job experience is necessary—this course is built for learners who want to get hands-on skills fast.

Ideal for IT professionals, job seekers, or entry-level cybersecurity folks looking to master POA&M creation and documentation.

Description

POA&M Mastery: A Deep Dive into Risk Management & Compliance Execution is a comprehensive, hands-on training course designed for cybersecurity professionals, Information System Security Officers (ISSOs), and GRC analysts operating in federal or regulated environments. If you work with NIST 800-53, RMF, or face audit and compliance challenges, this course was built for you.You'll learn how to manage the full lifecycle of a Plan of Action and Milestones (POA&M)—starting with identifying when a POA&M is required, all the way to writing clear, detailed, and audit-ready entries. We’ll show you how to break down failed security controls, vulnerability scan findings, or assessment results into documented risks, root causes, corrective actions, and measurable milestones.We’ll also cover how to prioritize remediation activities based on risk levels and organizational impact, assign responsibility, track updates across timelines, and communicate POA&M progress effectively with auditors, assessors, and stakeholders. You’ll gain an understanding of the relationship between POA&Ms, security authorizations (ATO packages), and continuous monitoring.This course includes real-world examples, live demonstrations, and downloadable templates that mirror what professionals use in the field. You’ll be guided through common challenges, such as unclear findings, overdue milestones, or lack of coordination between stakeholders, and learn how to overcome them with confidence.By the end of the course, you’ll have the skills, tools, and mindset to take ownership of the POA&M process, contribute to organizational compliance goals, and stand out in any GRC, ISSO, or RMF role. Whether you're seeking to break into federal cybersecurity or sharpen your documentation and compliance skills, POA&M Mastery will give you the execution playbook to thrive.Get ready to stop guessing and start executing like a pro in the world of risk and compliance.

Overview

Section 1: Introduction

Lecture 1 Module 1.1: Meet Your Instructor

Lecture 2 1.2 – Course Overview & Objectives

Section 2: Module 2: POA&M Essentials

Lecture 3 2.1 – What is a POA&M?

Lecture 4 2.2- Why Does POA&M Matter?

Lecture 5 2.3- Key Elements of a POAM

Section 3: Module 3: Managing and Executing POA&Ms

Lecture 6 3.1- Understanding POAM Milestones

Lecture 7 3.2- Prioritizing Corrective Actions

Lecture 8 3.3- Prioritizing Corrective Actions

Section 4: Module 4: Trigger Points: When a POA&M Is Required

Lecture 9 4.1-Do All Cybersecurity Risks Need a POAM

Section 5: Module 5: Hands-On POA&M Demonstrations

Lecture 10 Section 5.1: Live components of a POA&M

Lecture 11 Section 5.2: Live How to create a POAM for Vulnerbility Scans

Lecture 12 Section 5.3: Live How to create a POA&M for failed control finding

Section 6: Sustaining POA&M Success

Lecture 13 6.1- Common Mistakes to Avoid with POA&M

Lecture 14 6.2 – Maintaining a Healthy POA&M Program

Lecture 15 6.3- Course Recap and Resources

IT Professionals Transitioning into RMF,Aspiring ISSOs, ISSEs, or Security Analysts,Current Cybersecurity Professionals Upskilling,Job Seekers Trying to Beat the “No Experience” Barrier,Anyone Studying for CGRC (CAP), RMF-related Roles, or ATO Support