Robert Edge Johnston (1934–2022) was a distinguished engineer, dedicated family man, and tireless volunteer whose career and contributions left a lasting impact on the fields of aerospace engineering and organizational leadership. Raised in San Diego, Johnston graduated from Hoover High School in 1952, balancing work with service in the Army Reserves. His determination and work ethic led him to pursue higher education at San Diego State University, where he earned both bachelor’s and master’s degrees with highest honors: accomplishments achieved through thirteen years of night school while supporting his growing family.

Johnston’s professional journey began humbly as a stockroom clerk at Consolidated Vultee Aircraft Corporation (later Convair, a division of General Dynamics). Over the decades, he ascended through the ranks, ultimately holding leadership positions including Chief of Engineering Cost Development, Manager of Engineering Cost Analysis, and Director of Contracts and Estimating Aircraft Programs. His expertise was instrumental in advancing cost and weight engineering in major aerospace programs and his prolific authorship and presentations reflect his status as a thought leader in the field.

Upon his retirement in 1993, Johnston continued to serve the engineering and San Diego communities. He became Executive Director of the Society of Allied Weight Engineers, a global professional organization, and devoted substantial time as a volunteer at the San Diego Air & Space Museum. There, he contributed to preserving aviation history, supported museum publications and grant proposals, and played a key role in the Scholarship Program. In recognition of his many contributions, Johnston received the "Inspiration Award" from the Friends of Balboa Park in 2020.

Link to the collection's finding guide.