NEW ORLEANS:  Linda Hudson’s (BS SE 1972) overwhelming message at the retreat for BAE Systems employees was not to fear change, and that changes are coming.  As BAE Systems has been affected by declining defense spending and a weakened economy, Hudson has had the tough job of improving the company’s standings while losing funding.  She has worked hard to consolidate ten smaller companies into one cohesive corporation–with standard pay and vacation policies–to minimize waste.  Although the company has downsized, there was an emphasis on bringing excellence to the workplace.