Photo: SES

SES plans to establish a U.S. operations and technology hub in Bristow, Virginia. The satellite operator will invest $17 million to consolidate operations, technology, engineering, and support functions at the new site in Northern Virginia. According to an April 8 announcement by the Virginia Economic Development Partnership, Virginia competed with Maryland for the project, and the state said it will create up to 200 net new jobs by 2026.

Steve Collar, SES CEO said that the company considered local employees, existing satellite infrastructure, and access to an engineering talent pool when it selected the location.

“This new hub provides SES with the space to continue providing seamless services and aligns with our goal to deliver future-proof and innovative solutions for customers while adapting how we will work in a post-pandemic world,” Collar said. “With more people demanding more connectivity and data services, we will also be looking at engaging top talent across Virginia to grow our technology and global services teams in the coming months and would welcome candidates’ applications from the area.”

SES currently has the Washington Media Port near the new site location and three other facilities in Northern Virginia. “The idea is to try to consolidate these operations whenever it makes sense. We are in no rush to do this, and will be taking our time to decide what works best,” SES representative Suzanne Ong told Via Satellite via email.

Virginia Governor Ralph Northam approved a $500,000 grant from the commonwealth’s Opportunity Fund to assist Prince William County with the project. SES is eligible to receive benefits from the Major Business Facility Job Tax Credit for new, full-time jobs created. Funding and services to support SES employee recruitment and training activities will be provided through the Virginia Jobs Investment Program.

Governor Northam commented on the deal as well: “The growing presence of SES in Prince William County is an indication that the region and the commonwealth have the infrastructure, workforce, and strategic access to help technology businesses thrive. Northern Virginia is renowned for its world-class technology talent pipeline, which will pay significant dividends for SES as the company continues to grow and execute its business plan.”