Kelly Johnson
North Augusta, South Carolina,United States
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Clarence Leonard "Kelly" Johnson (February 27, 1910 – December 21, 1990) was a highly influential American aeronautical and systems engineer. He is best known for his groundbreaking work at Lockheed, particularly as the first team leader of the Skunk Works, Lockheed's advanced development projects division. Johnson played a leading role in the design of over forty aircraft, including iconic planes like the P-38 Lightning, the U-2 spy plane, and the SR-71 Blackbird. His '14 Rules & Practices' for Skunk Works projects emphasized simplicity, speed, and trust, revolutionizing rapid prototyping and aircraft development. He is recognized as one of the most talented and prolific aircraft design engineers in the history of aviation.
Professional Summary
Kelly Johnson's work history includes a series of influential roles in various companies. Here is a detailed list of his professional journey:
Notable Achievements
Lead Designer of the SR-71 Blackbird
Spearheaded the development of the Mach 3+ SR-71 Blackbird, a long-range, high-altitude strategic reconnaissance aircraft, which remains one of the fastest air-breathing manned aircraft ever built. Its design pushed the boundaries of materials science, aerodynamics, and propulsion.
Founder and Leader of Skunk Works
Established and led Lockheed's Advanced Development Projects (ADP), famously known as Skunk Works. This secretive and highly autonomous organization was responsible for many of America's most advanced and classified aircraft, operating under Johnson's innovative management principles.
Development of the U-2 Spy Plane
Led the design and rapid development of the U-2 high-altitude reconnaissance aircraft. This aircraft provided critical intelligence during the Cold War and demonstrated Skunk Works' capability for swift innovation.
Designer of the P-38 Lightning
Played a crucial role in the design of the P-38 Lightning, a twin-boomed, twin-engine fighter aircraft that was a versatile and effective combat aircraft during World War II.
Recipient of Multiple Collier Trophies
Awarded the prestigious Collier Trophy multiple times (1959 for the F-104 Starfighter, 1963 for the U-2, and 1964 for the SR-71) for his significant contributions to aeronautics and astronautics.
National Medal of Science (1966)
Awarded by the President of the United States for his outstanding contributions to aeronautical engineering and national security.
Presidential Medal of Freedom (1964)
Received the highest civilian award in the United States for his exceptional meritorious service.
Educational Background
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Company Overview
T-MobileT-Mobile US, Inc. is an American wireless network operator, majority-owned by German telecommunications company Deutsche Telekom (DT). It provides wireless voice, messaging, and data services in the United States, Puerto Rico, and the U.S. Virgin Islands under the T-Mobile and Metro by T-Mobile brands. Known for its 'Un-carrier' strategy, T-Mobile has aggressively competed on price, customer service, and network expansion, particularly with its nationwide 5G network, positioning itself as a leader in 5G coverage and speed. They also offer home internet services using their 5G network.
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