RS&H Voices: Impact Award Winner, John McMillin
John McMillin is the winner of this year’s Impact Award. This annual award recognizes one associate who has made a profound, positive impact within RS&H and the industry.
John is a senior mechanical engineer and has worked with RS&H for 46 years, leaving his influence on countless projects and associates. His depth of knowledge makes him a valuable member of almost every aerospace project. He’s known as the go-to source for all technical elements of mechanical engineering, and he’s always willing to teach and mentor others. Throughout his nearly 5 decade career at RS&H, John has remained committed to RS&H, our associates and our clients.
What first came to mind when you heard you were selected for the Impact Award?
After receiving the call telling me I won the Impact Award, my first thought was what an honor RS&H chose me.
What parts of our company mission, vision, or values do you resonate with the most?
I know our mission and our values and I’ve tried to carry all of our values into every project over my 46 years at RS&H.
Why do you like working with RS&H?
I’ve always liked the fact that we work on such a wide variety of interesting projects. I enjoy learning new things and projects are always a means to learn something new.
What is your biggest accomplishment while at RS&H?
The design of the Lightning Mitigation Systems for Space Launch Complexes 40 and 41 for Lockheed Martin. You can see those in the background if you watch a TV launch. Getting technical, my portion of the design included developing non-linear finite element analysis models of the fiberglass masts and cable array system examining hurricane wind loads on the masts and cable system, and a numerical method to determine the required thickness of ablative insulation material to protect the fiberglass masts from direct rocket plume impingement during a worse case drift of the rocket.
What are you working on right now?
We’ve been working on the Mobile Launcher 1 Modifications for the Artemis II launch – design and ESDC (Engineering Services During Construction), we’re also working with Blue Origin Ground Support Equipment Engineering Support, designing for their New Glenn rocket that is under development.
Who are your mentors or inspirations at RS&H?
I can think of many. I see David Sweeney as an inspiration for his courageous leadership regarding DE&I. Josh Saltsman – Vice President / Office leader, reviewing proposal manhour estimates and general guidance, Andrew Nelson is new to RS&H and he brings tons of great aerospace knowledge and contacts and has been getting us new work that we would not have gotten otherwise. Alan Littlefield – ex-NASA Chief Engineer for providing technical input on almost anything, Daniel Vigeant – An architect engineer with a wide range of knowledge on various topics.
What aspects of your role excite you the most?
I still do technical work, but half of my job is mentoring young engineers and giving them advice and that’s my favorite part of my role.
What has been your favorite project you’ve worked on at RS&H?
I don’t know if I have a favorite but one of the most unique projects I’ve worked on is with the US Navy on Ascension Island. We designed a saltwater wastewater treatment plant and replacement of the gravity collection system to meet US standards. We went down there for about 2 weeks. This was an interesting place to be and somewhat of a challenging project because we were dealing with about 400 feet of elevation and I’m used to working in Florida.
How do you demonstrate the #DriventoCare essence?
My enthusiasm for the job, even after 46 years. I’m always excited and eager for the next job.
What is a go-to break you take during the day to re-energize?
Getting a cup of tea and going to converse with someone in the office. Occasionally I’ll walk next door and grab a snack.
What is your favorite downtime activity? Do you have any hobbies?
I’m lucky enough to live close to the water so I enjoy boating, bird watching and bike riding.