Is Academic LOR a must have?

[syxtoez]

Before you answer, let me give you a little background on my situation.  I graduated from UPenn in Systems Engineering in 2005 with a 3.0 GPA.  I have worked for a major defense contractor for the past three years as an engineer and have very strong work and leadership experience.  I expect to be getting around a 170 on the LSATs (took Oct. 4th).

I can get 3 very strong LORs from team leads, technical directors, etc. at my work.  I know LORs from professors are desired, but I really don't have anyone in mind who would specifically remember me, or would write anything besides your basic "he did well in my class" response.  Is it a major red flag to have 3 LORs from the same job?  Even if one's performance at that job is much more substantial than his academic performance?

Thanks for any suggestions!

[sethg485]

I've read that many schools will accept letters from employers if you have been out of school for a period of time. Your situation certainly warrants that. However, make sure they come from people who have directly supervised and evaluated you.

[syxtoez]

Thanks for the response.  All my letters are from leads, managers, etc.  I read the same thing about if you have been out of school for "several" years...I'm just not sure where the line in the sand is.

[meathead]

I am in the same boat I have been out of school for four years.  First of all I went to a school of 45k students so in our classes of 200 it was hard to have and relationship with a prof, and second I never intended on going to law school at the time.  My goal was to get out quickly and start working, I have had a lot of success at work so I can get very good LOR's but I am worried about the lack of a academic LOR.