Terry Benedict of Systems Planning & Analysis has won WashingtonExec’s Chief Officer Award for DOW Executive of the Year (Private & Public Company).
On June 2, WashingtonExec unveiled the winners of the 2026 Chief Officer Awards, its premier recognition of the executives shaping the future of government contracting. This annual can’t-miss event celebrates bold, innovative leaders across government and industry.
In his finalist Q and A, Benedict discusses growing SPA’s business over the past year and delivering for clients during a dynamic period by integrating four acquisitions — Proximity, Intrepid, Red Six and Group W — which expanded capabilities in areas like modeling and simulation, wargaming, digital engineering, enterprise modernization and counter-UAS.
“I am focused on leading our client-facing teams at SPA in a rapidly changing environment, accelerating mission delivery, enabling flexible, technology-driven solutions, and advancing integrated models backed by targeted investments in client support, employee development and initiatives that strengthen our leadership in the national security market,” Benedict told WashingtonExec.
The event took place at The Hilton in McLean, Virginia, where over 500 attendees came together for a memorable in-person luncheon.
Along with the government and industry winners, John G. Edwards, president of the CIA Officers Memorial Foundation, was honored with a Lifetime Achievement Award. This award recognizes Edwards for his decades of exceptional service to the nation, marked by transformative leadership at the CIA and an enduring commitment to its people and mission.
WashingtonExec extends its gratitude to its silver sponsors, KippsDeSanto & Co. and Morgan Stanley; to its award sponsor, M&T Bank; and to its many table sponsors for their generous support.
