5/6/2010
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University of Illinois computer science alumna Linda A. Mills, corporate vice president and president of Northrop Grumman Corporation's Information Systems Sector, recently received the Alumni Award for Distinguished Service from the College of Engineering in recognition of her outstanding leadership and management in providing critical, large-scale information technology services to military, government, and corporate clients.
Mills received her master of science in computer science from the University of Illinois in 1973.
The ceremony, honoring a number of outstanding students, faculty, and distinguished alumni, was held on April 30 in the University's Alice Campbell Alumni Center. During her remarks, Mills reflected on her experiences in computer science and how they prepared her for a career in the technology field.
"The University of Illinois continues to be a leader in innovation -- introducing students like me to emerging technologies and cutting edge projects," said Mills. "I learned about discipline, how to solve big, complex problems, and the practical application of engineering, lessons that have been essential to my success at Northrop Grumman."
During her 30-year career, Mills has held numerous positions and led varied programs of increasing scope and responsibility to become one of the top female executives in the nation. In her current position as corporate vice president and president of Northrop Grumman's Information Systems, a leading global provider of advanced solutions for defense, intelligence, civil agency, and commercial customers, she is responsible for a business unit that generates $8.5 billion in revenue annually, employs more than 24,000 people, and maintains offices in 50 states and 18 countries.
"Information technology and engineering is an exciting and dynamic field, it's a field that I love," said Mills. "Every day, we make a difference in homeland security, global warming, health IT, cybersecurity, and to our warfighters."