Vance Willis

Vance Willis, PE, is a seasoned mechanical engineer and project manager with extensive experience in engineering leadership and product development. Currently serving as a Mechanical Engineer and Project Manager at Franklin Engineering Group, Inc., since November 2021, Vance has previously held notable positions including Advanced Development Manager at Kilgore Flares Co., LLC, where responsibilities included R&D of countermeasure products in collaboration with the US Air Force. Vance also managed a team of engineers at Big Ass Fans as Mechanical Engineering Design Manager, implementing rigorous design processes. With a background at Hayward Pool Products spanning over two decades, Vance progressed from Lab Technician to Engineering Manager, contributing significantly to product design and innovation, including the development of a thermodynamic model for swimming pool heat loss. Vance’s foundational experience includes serving as a Corporal in the United States Marine Corps. Vance holds a BS in Mechanical Engineering from Tennessee State University and an AS in Mechanical Engineering Technology from Nashville State Community College.