Student Research Symposium Program Portal: Submission #178

Primary Student Contact First Name: Luke
Primary Student Contact Last Name: Landers
Pronouns: {Empty}
Primary Student Contact FSU Student Email: lal15b@fsu.edu
Photo of all individuals presenting this work: https://pc.fsu.edu/system/files/webform/research_portal/9026/Landers%20Photo_0.jpg
Major(s) of all individuals presenting this work: Master of Science in Systems Engineering
Bio of all individuals presenting this work:
Luke A. Landers is a graduate student in Systems Engineering at Florida State University, where he maintains a 4.0 GPA and is completing a Graduate Certificate in Systems Engineering Leadership. His academic interests center on model-based systems engineering, defense acquisition, decision analysis, and the integration of technical and organizational systems to support complex programs.

Alongside his graduate studies, Luke works as an Operations Research Analyst with the U.S. Air Force Life Cycle Management Center at Eglin Air Force Base. His professional experience supports large-scale defense programs through analytical modeling, cost analysis, and decision support for senior leadership.

Luke’s academic and professional work reflects a strong interest in applying systems thinking to real-world engineering and acquisition challenges, particularly within high-consequence, mission-critical environments. He is expected to complete his master’s degree in May 2026 and intends to continue advancing systems engineering practices within the Department of Defense.

Poster Title: Benjamin Rich - The Invisable Man
Abstract:
Benjamin R. Rich was an American aerospace engineer and senior executive whose leadership played a defining role in shaping modern military aviation and systems engineering practice. Best known as the second director of Lockheed’s Advanced Development Projects division, commonly referred to as the Skunk Works, Rich assumed leadership during a period marked by organizational uncertainty, fiscal constraint, and evolving national security demands. This paper examines Rich’s leadership through the lens of contemporary leadership theory, with particular emphasis on traits, behaviors, and leader–follower relationships. Drawing upon concepts from The Leadership Experience, the analysis explores how Rich’s integrity, technical credibility, collaborative leadership style, and emphasis on trust enabled innovation within one of the most complex socio-technical environments of the Cold War. By applying behavioral and relational leadership frameworks, this paper demonstrates how Rich’s approach to leadership extended beyond engineering excellence to cultivate organizational resilience, sustained performance, and transformational technological outcomes.

Research Mentor Name: Dr. Daniel R. Georgiadis 'Dr. G'
Research Mentor's College (or High School): Florida State University
Research Mentor's Department (or Subject): Systems Engineering
Research Mentor's Email: dgeorgiadis@eng.famu.fsu.edu
Additional Research Mentor(s): {Empty}
Co-presenter(s): {Empty}
Keywords: Leadership, Engineering, Benajamin Rich
Poster Session/Number: {Empty}
Work: Complete
Presentation Modality: Asynchronous Online Presentation
Year: 2026
Annual description: 5th annual Undergraduate Research Symposium, April 17, 2025
Update URL: https://pc.fsu.edu/student-research/symposium/research-symposium-program-portal?element_parents=elements/student_photo&ajax_form=1&_wrapper_format=drupal_ajax&token=JN3UWNwDeGDYXzQnxoPxChYDypCjWfsX6E-kUemeLgg
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