Linda S. Parker Hudson is a businesswoman, keynote speaker and chair/CEO of the Cardea Group, a consultancy that specializes in C-suite transitions, strategic business transformations and critical organizational changes. She graduated from the University of Florida with a Bachelor’s degree in Systems Engineering in 1972.

After starting off as a program manager in Harris Corporation (1972 – 1976), she went on to be president in Ford Aerospace (1976 – 1985), Martin Marietta/Lockheed Martin (1985 – 1999), General Dynamics Corporation (1999 – 2006). She joined BAE Systems, a global, U.S.-based defense, aerospace and security company in 2006 as the president and CEO and retired in 2014. Often referred to as the “first lady of defense,” Linda was a trailblazer when the industry had few women. She continues to serve on the boards including Bank of America, Southern Company and Ingersoll Rand. In 2009, she was initiated into UF ISE Hall of Fame in recognition of her distinguished record of leadership in her chosen profession. She established The Linda Parker Hudson Fellowship to support outstanding students in ISE. Linda was most recently nominated to the National Academy of Engineering (NAE) and she will be inducted in 2019.

Eligibility Requirements

• The applicant must be a student pursuing a PhD degree in Industrial & Systems Engineering
• The applicant’s GPA must be at least 3.5

To apply, complete and submit this form.