“A Terrific Company”: Losing John Barnett

Last week, multiple news outlets reported the passing of whistleblower John Barnett. Mr. Barnett shot himself in his truck while in Charleston, South Carolina, as he neared the end of depositions concerning quality issues at his employer, Boeing.

The terrible, tragic, and very public circumstances of his death are a stark contrast to what the end of his career should have been. He should have finished his career being lauded for incalculable contributions as a Quality Manager for a company whose jets carry almost half of the worldwide 3 million people who fly commercially each day. He paid a high price in the exercise of his courage.

I first became aware of Mr. Barnett when watching Downfall: The Case Against Boeing. He spoke of his work at Boeing before the merger with McDonnell Douglas in a way that gave me goosebumps:

 “It was a terrific company. Put that shirt on and go out in public…it instilled pride. Great purpose. I had a say, wasn’t afraid to bring it up. Safety first. Trust in leadership. Culture of togetherness, best intentions on both. Belonging, structure, family. It was an excellent company to work for.”

What makes someone say that, and say it the way Mr. Barnett said it? How many people today are able to say that about their company?

Over the years, I have led and observed multiple businesses in multiple industries, and in different parts of the world. I’ve made many mistakes along the way, and occasionally been a part of something very special. I have seen people crushed by their job, typically when they have a manager who is more often disinterested than overly pressing. I’ve also seen people elevated to levels of fulfillment and joy they thought unattainable, levels mostly or wholly from the that click of things falling into place - a customer in need, the ability to satisfy it, and an environment that enables this to happen.

Imagine a different outcome in Mr. Barnett’s life, one where he was able to do his life’s work with a continued, even intensifying sense of pride and trust in his company. Imagine those he would have taught and mentored, and the example he would have set.

While we’ll never know this, we’ve been left a lot amidst the tragedy of his passing. The legacy of John Barnett will be one showing us what greatness looks like, what tragedy looks like, and most importantly, what courage looks like.

Thank you. Well done, sir. Rest in peace.