Curtis Taylor, CEO and founder of Linc Research Inc., is a visionary leader whose career has been defined by innovation and an unwavering commitment to progress. Under his leadership, Linc Research has pioneered cutting-edge solutions, earning multiple patents, many in collaboration with NASA, and served esteemed clients like USSOCOM, Army PEO Aviation, SOFWERX, and ARPA-E. His company’s contributions have been recognized with numerous accolades, including the NASA MSFC Small Business Subcontractor of the Year and the prestigious Nunn-Perry Award from the Department of Defense’s Mentor-Protégé Program.
Prior to founding Linc Research, Taylor spent 27 years supporting NASA’s Marshall Space Flight Center, where he played a critical role in ensuring the safety and success of space shuttle missions, advancing propulsion technology, and guiding small satellite projects. His technical expertise and leadership earned him numerous NASA awards, including two Space Flight Awareness Awards. Today, as chair of the NASA MSFC Small Business Leadership Team, he continues to champion opportunities for small businesses in aerospace, ensuring that future generations of innovators have the same opportunities he once fought to create.
Beyond the world of engineering and technology, Taylor’s heart lies in service. A graduate of Leadership Huntsville/Madison County and Leadership Alabama, he has devoted himself to hiring and mentoring employees from underserved areas and inspiring the next generation of scientists, engineers, and entrepreneurs. He serves on the Department of Aerospace Engineering and Mechanics Industrial Advisory Board at The University of Alabama and has launched initiatives like the HUBZone Accelerator and Workforce NOW! career expos, bringing opportunities to underrepresented communities. His belief that talent exists everywhere but opportunity does not has shaped his mission to break down barriers and open doors for those who dare to dream.
At his core, Taylor is more than an engineer, leader, or entrepreneur; he is a builder of futures. With a degree in industrial engineering from UA and a lifelong dedication to learning, mentoring, and giving back, he embodies the spirit of perseverance and possibility.
He currently resides in Huntsville, Alabama, with his wife, Karen. They have three children and 10 grandchildren.