Systems Planning & Analysis

SPA honors a somber day in the history of our submarine force. Please join us in commemorating the loss of USS Scorpion (SSN-589), a Skipjack-class nuclear-powered submarine and the sixth vessel and second submarine to carry that name. She imploded and sank on May 22, 1968, due to over-pressures created by hydrogen outgassing from the main battery. The wreckage of the Scorpion remains in the North Atlantic Ocean with all its armaments and nuclear reactor. As a long-time trusted partner of the US Navy, SPA is humbled to support the missions and safety of our submarine community. Our work with nuclear-powered submarines is guided by a deep respect for those who have served beneath the sea and for the sacrifices made in their honor.

SPA is hiring a senior Missile Defense Acquisition Analyst to join our Strategy, Policy, and Advisory Services team. In this role, you will: Support the Deputy Assistant Secretary of War for Strategic, Space, and Intelligence Portfolio Management Monitor missile defense–related activities and acquisition programs Support implementation of the Missile Defense Review Develop papers, briefings, and presentations for GO/FO/SES–level leaders You will work closely with stakeholders across OSW and other senior headquarters elements to enable a strategy of technological superiority and ensure delivery and sustainment of secure, resilient, and preeminent capabilities to the warfighter. At SPA, you will join an exceptionally talented, mission–driven team that combines technical rigor with deep operational insight to deliver results that matter for complex national security challenges. Learn more: https://hubs.la/Q04hl_LM0 #WeAreSPA #applytoday #DASW #SSIPM

SPA, represented by Bruce Phillips, SVP of the Space & Intelligence Division, was pleased to participate in the Space Systems Command (SSC) Subcontracting Forum: Pathway to Primes event held May 13, 2026, in El Segundo, California. Thank you to Aaron Parra and the SSC team for hosting a strong event. We appreciated the opportunity to build new connections, strengthen existing relationships, and engage with industry partners supporting critical national security space missions. #WeAreSPA

Today’s mission environment demands faster decisions, scalable technology, and the ability to integrate capabilities across domains. SPA is proud to appoint four new Fellows whose expertise advances software engineering, DevSecOps and cloud, applied artificial intelligence, and digital wargaming capabilities across the national security enterprise. Together, their work helps accelerate mission-ready solutions for evolving operational challenges. Congratulations to Ian Harding, Steven Hernandez, Phillip Pournelle, and Amy Soller on this achievement. Read the full announcement: https://hubs.la/Q04hjDHT0 #WeAreSPA #Fellows #SME

A fun day in the sun!  SPA employees, along with their family and friends, gathered for the annual SPA Picnic at Ticonderoga Farms in Chantilly, VA. The event featured a rock climbing wall, bouncy houses, face painting, a petting zoo, delicious food, and more. Attendees enjoyed the beautiful grounds and good company. The already lively atmosphere was boosted by Hijynx, a high-energy cover band, with SPA's own Chris Neubauer, Vice President of Corporate Operations, rocking the bass guitar. To add to the excitement, picnic-goers held their breath as President Terry Benedict announced the winning raffle numbers. The prizes included Uber and Uber Eats gift cards, Apple watches, iPads, JBL speakers, Turtle Boxes, and Airbnb gift cards. We look forward to seeing more smiling faces at future SPA events! 

SPA teed off in style as the Title Sponsor of the 2026 Ordnance Corps Golf Tournament, held May 8 at the Cardinal Golf Club in Fort Lee, Virginia. SPA fielded two full teams of four—thanks to colleagues who quickly filled the spots and represented SPA on the course. The Cardinal Golf Club delivered great conditions and a memorable setting for connecting with members of the Ordnance. SPA is proud to support the Ordnance Corps and honored to have served as this year’s Title Sponsor. Thank you to everyone who participated—your enthusiasm on and off the course made the event a success.

The US Navy is being asked to meet growing operational demand with a force that is increasingly stretched thin. In the latest edition of SPA Perspectives, Arthur “Trip” Barber, Chief Analyst at Systems Planning & Analysis, examines the growing challenges surrounding fleet readiness, industrial capacity, operational demand, and future force design. Read “Closing the Gap Between Demand and Capacity in Naval Force Design” to learn how these interconnected challenges continue shaping strategic defense decisions: https://hubs.la/Q04gRJHz0…   #WeAreSPA #FOCUS #blog

Do you know someone who would be a great fit for a critical role at SPA? Through our External Referral Program, you can earn a one-time payment of up to $10,000 for helping us connect with outstanding talent. We know that many of the best hires come from trusted networks—friends, colleagues, business partners, and peers. Getting involved is simple: 🔹Identify qualified candidates for one of SPA’s open positions 🔹Submit your referral using the easy online process on our website 🔹If your referral is hired, you receive a one-time payment of up to $10,000 SPA is dedicated to creating an environment where top talent can thrive. Our employees do impactful work, grow professionally, and deliver meaningful results. Click “REFER” today to get started: #WeAreSPA #ExternalReferral #Refer #hiring

SPA is proud to recognize our experts who attended ICEAA's 2026 Professional Development & Training Workshop as panelists. Their contributions showcased SPA’s expertise, commitment to innovation, and leadership across the cost analysis community. Panelist highlights: Russell McCawley, Cost Analyst; Preparing for the Predictable: Applying the CRED to Past Acquisition Programs Patrick Malone, Principal Technical Lead, Cost Analyst; Scheduling for Speed: Harnessing Forensic Methods to Drive Acceleration Dan Hearn, Data Scientist; EVM From an Industrial Engineering Lens: Factory Operations Modeling Gwenevere Tirpak, Operations Research Analysis; Preparing for the Predictable: Applying the CRED to Past Acquisition Programs We are grateful to our panelists for representing SPA. Their expertise and professionalism reflect SPA’s commitment to delivering rigorous analysis, objective insight, and mission-focused solutions. To learn more about our capabilities in digital program management, visit: https://hubs.la/Q04gFvPC0

SPA’s VETS Employee Resource Group (ERG) hosted an “Ask Us Anything” luncheon at SPA Headquarters, with in‑person and virtual participants. The session brought together employees who have served, are still serving, and those who support service members, creating an open forum to discuss the unique challenges and opportunities associated with military service and civilian careers. The conversation was guided by employee questions submitted in advance and raised during the session. Topics ranged from work–life balance and leave validation to benefits and recruiting trends: “How do I balance my Reserve career with my SPA career and family life?” “Where do I go for questions about how to use or access my health insurance?” “What is the best way to support the military or Reserve service members on my team?" With over 40% of our workforce being veterans, SPA has the solutions our employees need to feel supported. This event reinforces that no question is off-limits and that SPA VETS is available as a resource year-round—not only for those who wear or have worn the uniform, but also for managers, colleagues, and family members who support them. Ready for your next mission? 👉https://hubs.la/Q04gppmy0 #WeAreSPA #veterans #reserves