[2][3] Large received a Bachelor of Science degree in Engineering in 1979 from the University of Central Florida, majoring in electro-optics and semiconductor devices.

Before joining the government, he spent seven years in industry, during which time he received three patents in fiber optics technology.

[3] A year later, Large was appointed the Deputy Chief for Programs within the CIA Directorate of Operations' Technical Management Office.

While there, he led the development and execution of critical collection operations for the Intelligence Community.

[3] Beginning in August 2001, Large served as the CIA's Associate Deputy Director for Science and Technology.