Lockheed Martin plans to expand its space division at existing facilities in Douglas and Jefferson counties, adding up to 1,250 jobs in Colorado over the next four years, the company and state officials announced Thursday, Oct. 8. The new positions are expected to include cybersecurity and software engineers, technicians and administrative staff. The announcement came at the 2026 Site Selection Conference’s Site Selector Feedback Dinner. “Colorado is a national leader in aerospace innovation,” Gov. Jared Polis said, describing the expansion as an investment in the state’s aerospace industry and economy. Lockheed Martin employs more than 12,000 people in Colorado and 125,000 worldwide. Its Colorado teams have worked on components for NASA’s Orion capsule, which is part of the agency’s human spaceflight program. The company’s expansion is slated for existing sites in the two counties, though specific locations and a hiring schedule were not detailed in the announcement. Lockheed Martin Space executive Kate Watts said the company’s growth reflects Colorado’s aerospace workforce and business environment. Lockheed Martin is the largest primary employer in Jefferson County, according to county economic development chief Kami Welch. The company has operated in the county since 1955, she said. Douglas County economic development leader Ellie Reynolds also welcomed the investment, saying the county’s strategy includes helping established employers expand and sustain jobs.