For the second time, the Defense Counterintelligence and Security Agency has recognized Peerless Technologies Corporation as one of the “best of the best,” awarding the company its highest honor, the James S. Cogswell Outstanding Industrial Security Achievement Award.  For 2025, only 15 companies out of more than 12,500 cleared facilities were recognized, agency officials said.

The Cogswell Award recognizes the top security programs that exemplify best practices for other companies as part of the partnership between industry and government to ensure protection of classified information and programs.  Established in 1966, the award honors the legacy of Air Force Col. James S. Cogswell, the first chief of industrial security for the Department of Defense.

Today’s award marked the second time in five years that Peerless was recognized with the Cogswell Award.

“This award is a testament to the high standards, dedication and hard work of our employees, especially our security team,” said Andrea Kunk, president of Peerless. “To be recognized with this award twice is a true honor for the company.”

The award is the culmination of a months-long evaluation and vetting process that includes reviews of nominations by a national review team, vetting nominations with external agencies and developing ranked lists for final approval by DSCA’s top leaders.  To even be considered for nomination, a facility must have received two consecutive “Superior” ratings by the DCSA.

Award criteria include establishing and maintaining a security program that far exceeds the basic National Industrial Security Program requirements; and providing leadership to other cleared facilities in establishing best practices while maintaining the highest standards for security.

While the Cogswell Award is given to the company as a whole, Kunk noted that Joyce Price, Peerless’ Facility Security Officer since 2021, was a key factor in winning the award.

“Security is everyone’s responsibility, and Joyce’s professionalism has been a great asset to the company with the program she has built,” Kunk said.