Why do I admire Walt Downing’s volunteerism?

Volunteering is the lifeblood of professional communities, providing individuals with the opportunity to contribute, grow, and collaborate with amazing people. Engaging with the IEEE community has been instrumental in shaping my career since my early days as a student member. Over the years, as I transitioned to a full member and later a senior member, I saw firsthand how volunteering can lead to personal growth and foster meaningful relationships in my life and the lives of others.

I have had the opportunity to work with many dedicated volunteers and some of them have left a lasting impression on me. is there anyone walt downing Of San Antonio. A senior life member of the IEEE, Downing is its executive vice president and chief operating officer. Southwest Research InstituteWhich conducts scientific discovery, technology development, independent testing and analysis for its clients. Based in San Antonio, SwRI works on autonomous vehicles, cybersecurity, and space exploration, among other projects.

Collaborating with Walt as an editor and writer for ieee systems council This has been a highlight of my experience with IEEE. I interviewed him for a video, which I narrated, “IEEE Systems Council: Charting a course for the future on its 20th anniversaryI have watched him work and admired his unwavering commitment to advancing our field and supporting others.

President of the Council from 2022 to 2024 and now as President ieee lone star sectionCovering central and southern Texas, Walt embodies the spirit of leadership and collaboration that makes IEEE special. What inspires me to share his story is not only his accomplishments, but also the profound impact he has had on countless members of our community.

I have also served with him as chair of the section’s History Committee. Despite his busy schedule, he consistently dedicates time to mentoring and uplifting others, demonstrating the true essence of community engagement.

Exploring the History of the IEEE Lone Star Section in Texas with Walt Downing

Inspired by the Apollo 11 mission to the Moon

Growing up in San Antonio, Walt says he was inspired by technology from an early age. His father, who worked in Kelly Air Force BaseNow port san antonioAllowed him to see aircraft up close, which increased his fascination with aviation and aerospace.

Was watching this as a senior in high school Apollo 11 mission to the Moon in 1969 This, he says, really sparked his passion for engineering. This historic event fueled his dream of contributing to significant technological achievements and solidified his desire to pursue a career in a field that pushed the boundaries of the possible.

Those early influences, he says, combined to shape his journey and inspire him to pursue a path where he could make a meaningful impact through engineering.

Early career success

Walt’s journey as an engineer began with his participation in a cooperative education program Southern Methodist Universityin Dallas, where he says he gained valuable experience working part-time at Kelly Air Force Base while studying electrical engineering. After graduating with a bachelor’s degree in EE in 1973, he accepted a position as an instrument and controls engineer in the petrochemical division of Brown & Root, now part of the United States. kbrIn Houston. After five years, he returned to San Antonio to work at SwRI.

He says the non-profit research organization played an important role in shaping his career. It focuses on advanced technology and scientific research NASA and other government-agency customers.

He says that environment allowed him to embrace challenges when developing microprocessor-based systems and automated testing technologies.

Connected: Reflections on Leadership: An Interview with Walt Downing

Within a few years, he was managing a section specializing in automated test equipment for avionics. He helped expand work in avionics research and development, which eventually led to his promotion to vice president. In 1998 he was promoted to Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer, a role that enabled him to influence various technological advancements, particularly in automated testing. He worked on early applications of microprocessors to test systems, including projects for minuteman missile and avionics upgrades for older aircraft such as A-10, F-16And B-52,

His role as COO allows him to set the standard for reliability and efficiency in engineering, he says.

Reflecting on his career, Walt identifies key moments that shaped his path, such as his decision to leave Brown and Root for SwRI.

“Managing a new segment that turned into a division was an important step in my career,” he says.

former society president

Walt’s involvement with the IEEE began in 1981 through his involvement ieee autotestconAn annual conference for the aerospace and military automated test industry. This experience, he says, ignited his passion to contribute to the engineering community.

He has served in a number of IEEE volunteer roles over the years, including serving as chair of IEEE Aerospace and Electronic Systems SocietyWhere he previously served as Secretary and Vice President of Technical Operations. During his tenure as President, he adapted to the changes brought about by the COVID-19 pandemic – leading to new ways to connect with members.

“We started our delivery Distinguished Lecturer Program Online—which became extremely popular,” he recalls. At the event, experts in their fields speak to society chapters about their work.

“Stay connected and connected to the professional community. Never stop learning about new technologies.” -Walt Downing

He is the former president of ieee systems council and a member of its administrative committee. He is also a member of the IEEE-Eta Kappa Nu honor society.

He has also worked as a program evaluator ProvokeFormerly known as Engineering and Technology Accreditation Board.

“Active engagement with IEEE maximizes the value of my membership,” he says. “My involvement has expanded my network globally, creating opportunities to make connections with other professionals and showcase my skills beyond my workplace.”

inspiring the next generation

Walt says his motivation for volunteering early in his career was to advance professionally. However, he now says he finds satisfaction in maintaining the relationships he has built within the tech community. He hopes his legacy will be one of positively influencing young engineers and technologists to pursue their careers.

He advises young engineers to attend major conferences in technical areas of their interest.

“This engagement not only enriches your career but also keeps you connected to the evolving landscape of engineering,” he says.

“Stay connected and connected to the professional community,” he suggests. “Never stop learning about new technologies.”

He says this kind of mindset can help prevent obsolescence while opening the door to new opportunities and technical credibility.

Walt’s experiences with IEEE demonstrate the transformative power of partnership.