Dennis Willison BSc(Eng) Aeronautics and Astronautics, 1964
RAF Officer and Pilot; Royal Air Force
In 1961, Southampton had one of the best reputations for aero engineering, and it was in the finest location. It also had a friendly atmosphere (only about 3,000 students in those days) and its own UAS operating out of Hamble – easy to get to on a rare free afternoon.
What do you do?
I spent all my working life in the RAF until retiring at age 50. My career was a mix of flying and ground jobs. I started out flying air defence Lightnings and instructing ab-initios on the Jet Provost. After promotion, I inevitably moved into staff appointments, first in air defence then, after staff training in Canada, with the Canadian Armed Forces, on the personal staff of very senior commanders. I then returned to flying on further promotion as the chief instructor for tactical and weapons training on Hunter and Hawk aircraft. Further staff jobs followed in the Ministry of Defence involving, in turn, fast jet training policy, budget and finance management, and new equipment operational requirement definition. My final tour was back in command of a tactical and weapons training station. Not wishing to return for my last five years in London after such a magnificent job, I took voluntary early retirement. Now, I fly Air Cadets as a volunteer reservist to give them an insight into the world I enjoyed so much.
What's the best part of your job?
The very challenging flying, the variety of jobs and locations, and the company of fun-loving, honest and enthusiastic like-minded people. My various jobs took me to many parts of the world including North America, Germany, Belgium, Holland, Denmark, Italy, Malta, Cyprus, Egypt, Saudi Arabia, Malaysia, and the Falkland Islands.
Why did you go into this career?
I was always fascinated by flying, from models to full size. The RAF offered a full and varied career.
What is your education/experience:
Up to age of 16: Private prep school followed by Watford Grammar School. After 16: Watford Grammar School
What was your first job?
I joined the University Air Squadron (UAS) at Southampton, gaining RAF(VR) commission. I went straight into RAF after graduation.
Why did you choose Southampton?
In 1961, Southampton had one of the best reputations for aero engineering, and it was in the finest location. It also had a friendly atmosphere (only about 3,000 students in those days) and its own UAS operating out of Hamble – easy to get to on a rare free afternoon.
What was the best part about studying at Southampton?
Excellent facilities (even then); a wonderful, friendly and inspirational head of department – Professor Richards; regular flying, including doing my research thesis on stability and control involving instrumented flight tests; great social life, particularly when living in halls for the last two years. It was all wonderful.
What is your advice to potential students?
Follow your dream and persevere.
What are your hobbies?
Boating, golf, and of course all things connected with flying!