Systems Planning & Analysis (SPA), a technology and analytics firm focused on security and defense, will expand its operations in Northern Virginia with a $46.9 million investment across the City of Alexandria and Fairfax County. The expansion is expected to create more than 1,200 new jobs over the next five years.
As part of this initiative, SPA has acquired an office building in Alexandria that will undergo significant renovations to provide updated workspace for employees. The company expects to add 494 jobs at its headquarters in Alexandria.
In Fairfax County, SPA plans further growth at its Chantilly facility and is exploring additional locations to accommodate workforce expansion. This move is projected to generate 714 new jobs in the county.
“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 leaders noted their support for SPA’s investment decisions. “We congratulate Systems Planning & Analysis on this exciting next chapter of growth at their headquarters and across the region,” said City of Alexandria Mayor Alyia Gaskins.“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 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,” said Fairfax County Board of Supervisors Chairman Jeffrey C. McKay.“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.”
Legislators from both regions commented on job creation associated with this project: “Systems Planning & Analysis’ expansion is a testament to the strength and potential of our community,” said Senator Adam Ebbin.“Our local workforce’s skills and dedication have once again proven to be a driving force for business growth and expansion.” Senator Stella Pekarsky added,“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 Countyandthe36thdistrictcontinuetobeunmatchedintheirabilitytoattractinnovativecompaniessuchasSPAwithourhigh-qualitywell-trainedworkforce.” Delegate Karrie K.Delaney stated,“I am thrilled by today’s announcementofSystemsPlanning&Analysis’expansioninthe9thDistrict.TheirpartnershipwiththeVirginiaEconomicDevelopmentPartnershiptobringover700newhigh-payingjobstoourcommunityisatestamenttoChantilly’sroleinournation’ssecurityandwillcontinuetohelpVirginiafamiliesgrowandprosper.IcommendtheVEDPfortheirworkonthispartnershipandcongratulateSPAonthisincredibleexpansionandappreciatetheircontinuedinvestmentinthe9thDistrict.”
SPA provides technical analysis services supporting national security programs across several domains including warfare operations; intelligence; sensor systems; unmanned systems; economic security; space systems; missile systems; cybersecurity; policy analysis; hypersonics; among others.
The Virginia Economic Development Partnership worked with local governments on this project.Governor Youngkin approved $9.2 million from state funds through grants such as those from The Commonwealth’s Opportunity Fund along with incentives like VJIP (Virginia Jobs Investment Program), which supports employee recruitment/training activities by reducing human resource costs for expanding companies.
