Honestly, what is ISACA/CAICO thinking? Taking the CMMC certifications - already a significant barrier for many aspiring cybersecurity professionals - and jacking the price from $249 to $760 is the perfect example of how an industry that desperately needs more qualified people keeps shooting itself in the foot.
Cybersecurity is drowning in workforce (perceived) shortages. Every report, every conference panel, every government hearing loves to repeat the same talking point: "We need more trained practitioners." Their isn't a headcount shortage, but a definitely a skills gap. Particicularly when it comes to CMMC readiness.
And yet, when motivated people actually try to enter the field, the very organizations responsible for maintaining standards turn around and say, "Sure, but only if you can cough up triple the cost."
This isn't about increasing quality or improving the certification. If it were, they’d be transparent about where the extra money goes. They'd offer scholarships, tiered pricing, or some kind of support for students, veterans, and career changers. But no... this feels like classic bureaucratic gatekeeping wrapped in a glossy "professional standards" package.