Linda Allen ’78 ME, C-130 Deputy for Sustainment, Lockheed Martin Aeronautics

When the time came for me to choose a university, I chose Valpo because of its high academic standards and size. I was comfortable in the Christian environment and impressed by the professors, staff, reputation, and placement rate of the College of Engineering.

My four years in the College of Engineering prepared me for working and succeeding in a male-dominated career. Faculty members instilled in me an amazing work ethic as well as appreciation for the need for diversity in the work force, work-life balance, the importance of laughter and smiles when times were tough, and the absolute belief that I could achieve whatever goals I set.

Today I am the C-130 Deputy for Sustainment at Lockheed Martin Aeronautics. The C-130 is the longest continuous military production program in history. I am responsible for maintaining all C-130 aircraft after they are delivered to our clients and lead the sustainment team in interfacing with new C-130 customers to define their support requirements and ensure that these needs are met. My team provides spare parts, technical manuals, aircrew and maintenance training, technical assistance, and other sustainment services to support C-130 fleets worldwide. We also implement post-delivery upgrades and modifications to the aircraft.

There is no doubt in my mind that my professional progression and successes and my commitments to community service are largely due to my Valpo experience. I am truly proud to say that I’m a Valpo graduate.

For more information about Valparaiso University's College of Engineering, visit www.valpo.edu/engineering.