Western New England University (WNE) proudly inducted the late Lucien “Lou” Parent ’62 BSME into the College of Engineering Hall of Fame during a ceremony held in the Delbridge Career Center. Parent, a visionary industrialist and entrepreneur from Holyoke, Massachusetts, became the 17th member of this prestigious group, recognized for his professional achievements, service to his alma mater, and enduring Golden Bear spirit.
Honoring a Legacy of Perseverance and Innovation
A non-traditional student, Parent earned his degree in Mechanical Engineering in 1962 at the age of 34, balancing seven years of evening study with his growing professional responsibilities. Following graduation, he built a distinguished career in engineering and defense contracting, eventually transforming United Engineers from a small specialty firm into a $30 million enterprise with multiple locations across the Northeast. In 1982, he co-founded United Innovations, Inc. with his son Chris and partners James Voss and Jim Richmond, producing precision plotting instruments and drafting tools used by leading aerospace companies such as Northrop Grumman.
Parent also served his country, enlisting in the U.S. Navy at 17 and working aboard a repair ship during World War II. His career in industry required advanced security clearances, including assignments with the Naval Industrial Material Support Activity (INSMAT) in Bridgeport, Connecticut.
Dedication to Family and Community
Beyond his entrepreneurial success, Parent was deeply committed to education and civic life. He served on the WNE Board of Trustees from 1978 to 1987, supported the University with generous contributions, and pursued lifelong learning through seminars at Harvard Business School, the Smaller Business Association of New England, and other institutions.
Parent and his wife, Beverly, who passed away earlier this year, raised four children—Mark, Chris, Bruce, and Cynthia—who continue to carry forward the family’s entrepreneurial legacy. During the ceremony, Chris Parent ’74 accepted the honor on behalf of his late father.
A Celebration of Excellence
“Lou’s story is one of perseverance, vision, and service,” said Interim President Michael B. Alexander. “He built United Engineers into a company of national significance while giving his time and talent to Western New England as a trustee. We are proud to honor not only his professional achievements but also the values he embodied—hard work, integrity, and a deep commitment to family and community.”
As part of the induction, Parent’s bronze portrait plaque was unveiled on the College of Engineering’s Hall of Fame Wall in Sleith Hall, where it will serve as a lasting inspiration to students, faculty, alumni, and visitors.
About the Engineering Hall of Fame
Established in 2002, the WNE College of Engineering Hall of Fame recognizes graduates and individuals who have made significant contributions to the engineering profession or the College itself. Parent joins 16 other distinguished inductees, including faculty, entrepreneurs, and innovators whose work has shaped industries and advanced the University’s mission.
