Arizona Gov. Doug Ducey recently said that Orbital ATK will be expanding its engineering operations in Gilbert.

Orbital ATK , a global leader in aerospace and defense technologies, will add approximately 55 full-time jobs to the current 52,000 with the upcoming expansion. The expansion will include a 60,000-square-foot addition to the already existent satellite manufacturing facility, an advanced assembly and test facility and one of the largest in the U.S. The company contributes $38 billion annually to the state's economy.

The company's expansion will also complement science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) jobs and industries.

"I am thrilled that one of the largest aerospace and defense companies in the world once again has selected Arizona for its expansion plans and to support its critical operations," Ducey said.

Arizona Commerce Authority President and CEO Sandra Watson said the expansion is a positive declaration about the state's skills in the areas.

"Our state’s highly skilled workforce, pro-business climate, strategic location and excellent quality of life combined with a rich aviation history provide the ideal location for aerospace and defense companies to grow their businesses," Watson said.