As the demand for secure and autonomous timing sources grows, robust time scale systems are increasingly being adopted beyond metrology laboratories, extending into defense, research, and telecommunications sectors. The primary function of a time scale system is to deliver a highly stable and accurate reference to UTC, enabling precise synchronization and secure operations across diverse applications. While metrology laboratories utilize these systems to uphold national standards and ensure measurement traceability, other organizations depend on them for mission-critical operations, network reliability, and data integrity. Establishing a traceable reference to UTC without reliance on GNSS helps mitigate risks and ensures uninterrupted service. This paper examines the evolving landscape of time scale systems, outlines best practices for maintaining a continuously operating UTC-traceable reference including mission-critical redundancy and security measures, and highlights new technologies and innovations shaping the future of time scale systems.