Systems Planning & Analysis (SPA), an independent technology and analytics firm focused on security and defense, will expand its Northern Virginia operations with a $46.9 million investment in the City of Alexandria and Fairfax County. The expansion is expected to generate more than 1,200 new jobs in Virginia.
As part of the expansion, SPA has acquired a new office building for its global headquarters in Alexandria and will renovate it to create a modern workspace. This project aims to foster collaboration and increase productivity through updated technology and infrastructure. Over the next five years, SPA plans to add 494 new jobs at its Alexandria headquarters.
In Fairfax County, SPA will grow its presence at its Chantilly facility and is exploring additional locations to accommodate an expanding workforce. The company projects the creation of 714 new jobs in this area as it invests in upgraded facilities and technology.
“In Northern Virginia, SPA is expanding their operations at the speed of Virginia,” said Governor Glenn Youngkin. “The Commonwealth’s strategic location, pro-business policies, and access to world-class talent made the decision to grow here easy for the SPA team. Together, we are working to push creative boundaries in the world of data, security, and national defense.”
“After half a century of partnership with SPA, Virginia is beyond excited to see the company expand so rapidly in Northern Virginia,” said Secretary of Commerce and Trade Juan Pablo Segura. “This announcement doesn’t just put SPA at the front of the pack, it puts the Commonwealth there as well. I am proud to join SPA, Alexandria, and Fairfax County in celebrating what this means for the region.”
“We are thrilled to deepen our roots in Alexandria and Fairfax County, two vibrant communities that have supported our growth for more than 50 years,” said SPA Chief Executive Officer Rich Sawchak. “This expansion reflects our commitment to providing exceptional data-driven analytical insights to our clients while fostering innovation within our own organization. We are excited to welcome new talent and invest in the local economy.”
City of Alexandria Mayor Alyia Gaskins stated: “We congratulate Systems Planning & Analysis on this exciting next chapter of growth at their headquarters and across the region. The purchase of their office headquarters is a signal of their commitment to and investment in Alexandria, where they will grow their workforce and community partnerships. This planned regional growth cements their place as a pillar of the defense and national security industry, and we are proud to add them to the growing list of Alexandria business success stories.”
Fairfax County Board of Supervisors Chairman Jeffrey C. McKay commented: “Fairfax County has long been a place where America’s most critical missions take root. Our vast national security ecosystem, our diverse and highly skilled workforce, and our strong base of defense, intelligence, and technology companies all make our community a trusted home for purpose-driven organizations. Today’s investment announcement by SPA builds on that legacy. It represents confidence in our people, our assets, and our future. And it sends a message: Fairfax County is not only a place where companies grow, but also where the work of protecting our nation is carried forward. We are deeply honored that SPA has chosen Fairfax County for this critical expansion and look forward to supporting their continued growth in our community.”
Senator Adam Ebbin added: “Systems Planning & Analysis’ expansion is a testament to the strength and potential of our community. Our local workforce’s skills and dedication have once again proven to be a driving force for business growth and expansion.”
Senator Stella Pekarsky said: “I am excited that SPA has chosen to expand its operations in the 36th district and bring hundreds of well-paying jobs to the area. I am proud that our region continues to grow as a hub for technology and innovation. Fairfax County and the 36th district continue to be unmatched in their ability to attract innovative companies such as SPA with our high-quality, well-trained workforce.”
Delegate Karrie K. Delaney stated: “I am thrilled by today’s announcement of Systems Planning & Analysis’ expansion in the 9th District. Their partnership with the Virginia Economic Development Partnership to bring over 700 new, high-paying jobs to our community is a testament to Chantilly’s role in our nation’s security and will continue to help Virginia families grow and prosper. I commend the VEDP for their work on this partnership and congratulate SPA on this incredible expansion and appreciate their continued investment in the 9th District.”
SPA employs more than 2,800 professionals who provide expertise across areas such as warfare operations (land/air/sea), intelligence systems analysis, unmanned systems technologies, economic security analysis including cybersecurity policy support https://www.spacorp.com/, space systems engineering solutions https://www.spacorp.com/services-solutions/space-systems/, missile system assessments https://www.spacorp.com/services-solutions/ballistic-missile-systems/, radar/sensor development projects https://www.spacorp.com/services-solutions/radar-and-sensor-systems/, hypersonics research https://www.spacorp.com/services-solutions/hypersonics/, industrial base studies https://www.spacorp.com/services-solutions/defense-industrial-base-economic-security/, counter-system strategies https://www.spacorp.com/services-solutions/unmanned-systems-counter-unmanned-systems/, cybersecurity analysis/policy services https://www.spacorp.com/services-solutions/cybersecurity-analysis-policy-support/. The company has received recognition from The Washington Post as a Top Workplace since 2014.
To secure this project for Virginia—one that includes both significant capital investment by SPA plus job creation—the Virginia Economic Development Partnership worked with officials from both localities involved.
Governor Youngkin approved $9.2 million from state funds via grants such as those provided by Commonwealth’s Opportunity Fund alongside incentives like those offered through VEDIG (Virginia Economic Development Incentive Grant) programs.
Additional support comes from VEDP through administration of workforce programs like VJIP (Virginia Jobs Investment Program), which offers consulting services plus funding aimed at helping businesses recruit/train employees when adding positions or expanding operations—a measure intended both as an incentive tool but also one demonstrating ongoing state-level commitment toward enhancing job opportunities statewide.
