Johnson came to the university with experience as a civil engineer and with an extensive career in the U.S. military. His academic credentials include a bachelor's degree in civil engineering from the University of Colorado in 1970, a bachelor's degree in business/economics from Chapman College in 1975 and masters’ degrees in public works and civil engineering from the University of Pittsburgh in 1978. After more than 33 years of service, Johnson retired from the U.S. Navy as rear admiral in the Civil Engineer Corps in January 2004.

Most recently, Johnson served as commander of the Naval Facilities Engineering Command and chief of Civil Engineers. As commander, Johnson directed the worldwide operations of the Navy's global engineering organization, managing more than 14,000 civilian and military personnel and a multi-billion dollar budget. As chief of Civil Engineers, he was responsible for the community management of almost 40,000 military and civilian personnel.

Johnson has held leadership positions in the Atlantic and Southwest Divisions of the Navy. He also served as director of Shore Installation Management on the staff of the commander in chief, U.S. Atlantic Fleet.

Johnson will speak in Combs Auditorium, Room 282, Bell Engineering Center at 5:30 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 16, with a reception at 5:15 p.m. The Arkansas Society of Professional Engineers and other interested parties will be attending. Refreshments and pizza will be served.