Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company reported a top-line growth of 7% for the quarter, with revenue reaching $4.47 billion, and a year-to-date revenue growth of 5% [4][20] - Adjusted EBITDA margin was 13.8%, with adjusted EBITDA of $616 million, reflecting a 3% year-over-year increase [21] - Non-GAAP diluted EPS grew 4% to $3.05, supported by a lower share count [21] - Operating cash flow for the quarter was $711 million, contributing to a free cash flow of $680 million, resulting in a free cash flow conversion ratio of 171% [25] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - National Security and Digital revenues increased by 8% year-over-year, driven by contract awards and increased volumes for defense IT and mission support [22] - Health and Civil revenues grew by 6% year-over-year, with a record non-GAAP operating income margin of 25.7% due to high volumes in managed health services [23] - Defense Systems segment grew by 11% year-over-year, marking its seventh consecutive period of high single to low double-digit growth [24] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company experienced a 27% sequential increase in funded backlog, indicating strong customer demand [16] - The U.S. utilities are expected to invest over $1 trillion in energy infrastructure over the next decade, presenting significant growth opportunities for the company [10] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The North Star 2030 strategy focuses on five growth pillars: space and maritime, energy infrastructure, digital modernization and cyber, mission software, and managed health services [8] - The company is committed to investing in innovation and technology to enhance customer outcomes and drive down costs [6][7] - The divestiture of Varik, a non-core legacy asset, aligns with the sharpened strategic focus of the company [17] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in navigating the current government shutdown, noting that most programs remain unaffected [4] - The company raised its guidance for 2025, reaffirming revenue guidance of $17 billion to $17.25 billion and increasing adjusted EBITDA margin guidance [18][26] - Management highlighted a robust pipeline of near-term opportunities valued at $69 billion, with $24 billion in bids awaiting adjudication [16][54] Other Important Information - The company repurchased $100 million worth of shares and accelerated the payoff of $450 million on its term loan [17] - The company plans to continue investing in growth pillars while returning capital to shareholders [18] Q&A Session Summary Question: Thoughts on M&A in the current environment - Management indicated a shareholder-friendly approach to capital deployment, focusing on both organic and inorganic growth opportunities [31] Question: Growth outlook for defense systems - Management highlighted tracking 10 franchise programs expected to deliver about $15 billion in potential value over the next five years [36] Question: Sustainability of health and civil segment margins - Management expressed confidence in sustaining high margins through innovation and investment in technology [45][48] Question: Bid expectations for next year - Management expects a significant increase in bid submissions next year, with a strong pipeline of opportunities [54][55] Question: Impact of the government shutdown on Q4 - Management acknowledged potential risks from the shutdown but remained optimistic about returning to normal operations quickly [70] Question: Recompete contracts for next year - Management noted that it is too early to specify growth expectations for 2026, but several programs are expected to drive growth momentum [86]