Our Story

Established in 1997


Astyra Corporation has transformed from a small startup into a national leader in workforce solutions. Our journey is fueled by a commitment to excellence and a culture of problem-solving. We’ve navigated challenges and embraced opportunities, always adapting to meet the evolving needs of our clients and the dynamic landscape of the workforce industry.

Innovation drives us, and we’ve pioneered new technologies and approaches that set industry standards. Trusted by diverse sectors—from healthcare to finance and government—we’re dedicated to making a difference. As we grow, we stay true to our founding principles, looking toward a bright future in workforce solutions.

Astyra's logo

What’s in a name?

Astyra is a coastal Greek town conquered by Alexander the Great. Alexander needed a standard unit of monetary exchange to connect his vast empire and outsourced the creation of the bronze and silver coins to the people of Astyra. These coins are rare and well-made. The name represented what we do at Astyra: outsource business and technology experts.

Today, one of those coins hangs in the Astyra office located in Richmond, VA. Astyra staff members found, purchased, and presented the coin to the founders Ken and Sam!

Photo of real Astyra coin located in our Richmond office
astyra (az-TIE-rah)

A Brief History of Astyra

A glimpse into the journey from dream to reality

1986
Monarchs With a Future

Ken and Sam first crossed paths as freshmen at Old Dominion University. Their friendship quickly grew, leading them to become roommates—where late-night conversations turned into ambitious plans to launch their own IT firm after graduation.

Old Dominion University logo

1991
A Business is Born

With just a $400 investment—half of which came from Sam’s dad—Automation Concepts, an IT support business, was launched. This small but mighty beginning laid the foundation for what would become a journey of innovation and growth in the tech industry.

1997
From Support to Staffing

As times evolved, so did the vision. Automation Concepts transitioned from an IT support business to a dynamic staffing firm, adapting to new opportunities and industry demands.

Astyra logo

2004
Astyra is Born

Automation Concepts rebrands as Astyra Corporation, embracing a new vision that reflects its growth and evolution into a leading staffing and consulting firm.

2006 to 2010
We Got the Formula

Astyra continues to gain momentum as its rebrand takes off. With the addition of several national clients, the company expands its reach and broadens its geographic footprint.

2012
National Recognition

Astyra is makes waves! With triple-digit growth and four consecutive years on Inc. Magazine’s Fastest Growing Companies in America, the momentum keeps building.

Inc. 5000 logo

2014
Diversity is Key

For the first time, Astyra places more non-IT resources than IT, marking a strategic shift. With a growing focus on Healthcare and Call Center opportunities, Astyra achieves a well-balanced and diversified portfolio.

2020
Pivot, Adapt, Thrive: The Pandemic

In 2020, as the world faced the unprecedented challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic, Astyra was already prepared. With a mobile-friendly workforce that could seamlessly work from anywhere, we quickly adapted to the new normal. Seizing the opportunity, we secured a pivotal contract to staff contact tracers, and over the next two years, our team worked tirelessly to support the nation’s response to the crisis. The pandemic may have changed the world, but Astyra’s flexibility and dedication helped us rise to the occasion.

Corporate Plus NMSDC Member logo

2021
Corporate Plus Recognition

Recognized for its proven track record of success, Astyra earns sponsorship from a national corporate member of NMSDC.

2022
25th Anniversary

Astyra Corporation celebrated its 25th anniversary, looking back on 25 years of growth, success, and the honor of receiving several prestigious awards.

INC 5000 7-time winner award

2023
7-Time INC Winner

Astyra joins an exclusive group of companies to receive Inc. Magazine’s Fastest Growing Companies in America award, with only 1.5% achieving this honor seven times.

2024
Richmond Business Hall of Fame

Ken and Sam are honored with induction into the Junior Achievement Business Hall of Fame.

Photo of Ken and Same being inducted into the Junior Achievement Business Hall of Fame
MBL Masters of Business Award

2025
Master Entrepreneur of the Year Award

Ken and Sam are honored with the Master Entrepreneur of the Year Award by the Metropolitan Business League (MBL)

Today

Looking ahead towards our 30th anniversary in 2027, Astyra is excited to build on its decades of success, embracing new opportunities and staying at the forefront of innovation. With a focus on growth and excellence, we are dedicated to expanding our impact and continuing to deliver top-tier solutions for years to come. The future holds endless possibilities, and we’re eager to see what’s next!