Jon L. Willis Presented with the Albert Nelson Marquis Lifetime Achievement Award by Marquis Who's Who
Press Release March 6, 2026
Jon L. Willis has been endorsed by Marquis Who's Who as a leader in design and engineering
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Among Mr. Willis's most cherished professional highlights are several vehicle designs completed during his tenure with major manufacturers.

YORKTOWN, IN, March 06, 2026 /24-7PressRelease/ -- Marquis Who's Who, the world's premier publisher of biographical profiles, is proud to present Jon L. Willis with the Albert Nelson Marquis Lifetime Achievement Award. An accomplished listee, Mr. Willis celebrates many years' experience in his professional network and has been noted for achievements, leadership qualities, and the credentials and successes he has accrued in his field. As in all Marquis Who's Who biographical volumes, individuals profiled are selected on the basis of current reference value. Factors such as position, noteworthy accomplishments, visibility, and prominence in a field are all taken into account during the selection process.

Mr. Willis has established a distinguished career marked by versatility, technical expertise and a commitment to excellence in design estimation. As the owner, designer, engineer and estimator at JW Design and Estimation, he is responsible for designing homes, estimating project requirements and managing invoicing. Mr. Willis's proficiency in design estimation is widely recognized, reflecting years of dedication to mastering evolving technologies and adapting to diverse client needs.

Before launching his own firm, Mr. Willis served as a pro service specialist at Lowe's Home Improvement from 2007 to 2021. In this capacity, he was one of the few associates in his district who regularly estimated blueprints and calculated required materials for contractors, a responsibility many declined due to liability concerns or limited expertise. Mr. Willis's diligence and technical acumen earned him a ranking among the top 10 pro service specialists in a region encompassing 100 stores when he departed the company.

Earlier, Mr. Willis contributed as an engineering support designer at General Motors for nearly two decades, starting in 1989. During this tenure, he played a pivotal role in various automotive projects, including the last IROC symbol for the Camaro in the mid-1990s. Mr. Willis's work at General Motors solidified his reputation for innovation and attention to detail.

Mr. Willis also found success with several other organizations, including Kimball Electronics, where he expanded his knowledge of electronic systems and manufacturing processes. He also contributed significantly to Naval Avionics in Indianapolis, collaborating with engineers on the design of the Cruise and Walleye missiles. Mr. Willis spent two previous years with Mid America Design. As a contract designer at Guide Corporation, he held several positions, including designer, project engineer and model shop supervisor. While at Guide Corporation, he frequently traveled to Detroit to review designs at the design center alongside other designers, demonstrating leadership and collaboration across multiple disciplines. Additionally, Mr. Willis taught at Newcastle High School, sharing his knowledge with students and fostering an appreciation for technical education.

Mr. Willis's educational background includes a Bachelor of Science in practical arts in 1975 and a Master of Science in practical arts in 1979 from Ball State University in Muncie, Indiana. These academic achievements laid a strong foundation for his multifaceted career by equipping him with both theoretical knowledge and practical skills applicable across industries. During his tenure at Ball State, Mr. Willis was inducted into the practical arts Honorary, Tau Sigma Delta based on his overall GPA. Mr. Willis also holds a certification as a sports trainer from the International Sports Sciences Association, further enhancing his expertise in training methodologies and physical conditioning.

Throughout his professional journey, Mr. Willis has maintained memberships in industry-related organizations, including the International Sports Sciences Association, which offers valuable opportunities for professional development and networking in sports science and technology.

Beyond his professional accomplishments, Mr. Willis has demonstrated an enduring commitment to civic engagement. He has volunteered on church construction projects in the Dominican Republic and participated actively in a construction ministry based in Kokomo, Indiana. He has also sponsored English school tuition for children in the Dominican Republic. Among other initiatives, Mr. Willis, an experienced bodybuilder, enjoys training young people at the gym and volunteering within his community.

Among Mr. Willis's most cherished professional highlights are several vehicle designs completed during his tenure with major manufacturers, as well as residential projects through JW Design and Estimation. His achievements extend into athletics as well. Mr. Willis set four Ohio state records during one meet with the Southern Powerlifting Federation at age 59. He also set eight state records in powerlifting and won national championships, including the American Open master lifter title in 2008 and Next Generation Nationals in 2014 at age 61. Additionally, Mr. Willis placed second at the Masters Nationals in 2009 and won the SPF Nationals in 2011.

Discipline and a robust work ethic have been central to Mr. Willis's success. Looking ahead, he aims to give back by designing transitional homes for individuals re-entering society after incarceration or overcoming addiction. Through these efforts and ongoing involvement with recovery ministries, he continues to use his talents to make a meaningful impact during this phase of life.

About Marquis Who's Who®:
Since 1899, when A. N. Marquis printed the First Edition of Who's Who in America®, Marquis Who's Who® has chronicled the lives of the most accomplished individuals and innovators from every significant field of endeavor, including politics, business, medicine, law, education, art, religion and entertainment. Who's Who in America® remains an essential biographical source for thousands of researchers, journalists, librarians and executive search firms around the world. The suite of Marquis® publications can be viewed at the official Marquis Who's Who® website, www.marquiswhoswho.com.

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