Walt Downing’s Volunteerism Fuels Innovation and Mentorship

Volunteering plays a pivotal role in professional communities, fostering collaboration and personal growth. For many, including Walt Downing, a life senior member of the IEEE, this engagement has profound implications for both individual careers and the wider community. Downing, who serves as the executive vice president and chief operating officer at the Southwest Research Institute (SwRI) in San Antonio, exemplifies the impact of volunteerism through his unwavering dedication to advancing the field of engineering and inspiring others.

Throughout his journey with IEEE, Downing has held various leadership roles, including president of the IEEE Systems Council from 2022 to 2024 and current chair of the IEEE Lone Star Section. His commitment to the organization highlights the importance of leadership and collaboration, which are fundamental to IEEE’s mission. Collaborating with Downing has been a transformative experience for many, particularly for those involved in the IEEE Systems Council, where he has served as an editor and writer.

Walt Downing’s journey began in San Antonio, where his fascination with technology was ignited by early exposure to aviation through his father’s work at Kelly Air Force Base. Watching the historic Apollo 11 mission in 1969 solidified his desire to pursue a career in engineering, pushing him to contribute to significant technological advancements.

After earning a bachelor’s degree in electrical engineering from Southern Methodist University in 1973, Downing began his career at Brown & Root, now part of KBR, focusing on instrumentation and controls in the petrochemical sector. His transition to SwRI marked a critical point in his career, where he embraced challenges and contributed to advanced technology and scientific research for clients, including NASA.

At SwRI, Downing quickly rose through the ranks, eventually managing a section that specialized in automated test equipment for avionics. His work on the early applications of microprocessors for testing systems, including projects for the Minuteman missile and upgrades for legacy aircraft such as the A-10, F-16, and B-52, has significantly influenced the field of aerospace technology.

Downing’s involvement with IEEE began in 1981 at the IEEE AutoTestCon, an annual conference for the aerospace and military automatic test industry. His passion for contributing to the engineering community led him to numerous volunteer roles, including serving as president of the IEEE Aerospace and Electronic Systems Society. During his presidency, he adapted to the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, introducing online programming that allowed members to stay connected and engaged.

Reflecting on his career, Downing emphasizes the value of active engagement with IEEE, stating, “My involvement has expanded my network globally, creating opportunities to build relationships with other professionals.” He encourages young engineers to participate in key conferences within their fields to enhance their careers and stay connected with industry developments.

As Downing looks to the future, his legacy revolves around positively influencing the next generation of engineers and technologists. He believes that fostering connections and continuing education in emerging technologies are crucial for preventing obsolescence in a rapidly evolving field.

Downing’s experiences and dedication to volunteerism within IEEE underscore the transformative potential of active participation in professional communities. His story serves as an inspiring example of how commitment to volunteer efforts can lead to significant advancements in technology while nurturing the careers of aspiring engineers.