William R. Johnson
Chief
Media Services
External Relations

William R. "Bill" Johnson is the chief of Media Services for External Relations at the John F. Kennedy Space Center (KSC), Fla. He is responsible for the dissemination of the agency's news from KSC and all aspects of the operation of the NASA newsroom and the Press Site on the center.

Johnson has been employed in the space program at KSC for 41 years. He started his career as a contractor in 1965 and was employed at various times by RCA Merritt Island Launch Area (MILA), the Federal Electric Corporation, RCA Communications and the Lockheed Space Operations Company. He served as supervisor/manager of Wideband Transmission and Operational Television, and his responsibilities always included supervisor/manager of PAO Television operations.

Since joining NASA Public Affairs in 1989, he has served as TV photo chief, deputy branch chief, lead, acting division chief, and division chief.

His awards and recognition include letters and certificates of commendation, group achievement awards and the NASA Exceptional Service Medal.

Born and raised in Terre Haute, Ind., Johnson graduated from Gerstmeyer Technical High School and attended Indiana State University before enlisting in the United States Air Force. He served in Europe during the Cold War and Vietnam era and was discharged at Patrick Air Force Base. He holds an Associate of Science from Brevard Community College.

He resides in Canaveral Groves, Fla., with his wife, Bobbie, who is also employed at the space center. He has three grown children and three grandchildren.

April 2007