Jack London (businessman) facts for kids
J. Phillip "Jack" London (April 30, 1937 – January 18, 2021) was an American businessman who led a major technology company called CACI. He helped CACI grow into a large company that provides advanced technology services and solutions for national security missions, like electronic warfare and cybersecurity.
Before his business career, Jack London served in the United States Navy. He was a naval aviator for 12 years during the Cold War and then served another 12 years in the Navy Reserve. He also supported several foundations, including the Navy Memorial Foundation.
Quick facts for kids
Dr. J. Phillip (Jack) London
|
|
|---|---|
 |
|
| Born | April 30, 1937 Oklahoma City, OK, U.S.
|
| Died | January 18, 2021 (aged 83) Arlington, VA
|
| Education | U.S. Naval Academy (BS) Naval Postgraduate School (MS) George Washington University (DBA) |
| Occupation | Businessman & Philanthropist |
| Known for | President & CEO, CACI |
| Spouse(s) | Dr Jennifer Ellen Burkhart |
| Children | 5 |
| Parent(s) | Harry R. and Evalyn P. London |
| Military career | |
| Allegiance |  United States |
| Service/ |
 United States Navy |
| Years of service | 1959–1983 |
| Rank |  CAPT |
| Unit | USS Randolph (CV-15) Naval Material Command Naval Air Systems Command |
| Battles/wars | Cold War Cuban Missile Crisis Vietnam War |
| Awards | Lone Sailor Award |
Jack London's Early Life and Education
Jack London was born to Harry R. and Evalyn P. London. His family had a history of pioneers and farmers. He was interested in history and traced his family tree back to Samuel Nicholson. Samuel Nicholson was a naval officer during the American Revolution. He even commanded the famous ship, the USS Constitution. Jack London created an award in Samuel Nicholson's honor for Naval Academy students.
Jack London was a great student at Classen High School in Oklahoma City. He was also the student body president. Watching the Navy Blue Angels perform at a football game made him want to join naval aviation. He was accepted into the United States Naval Academy. In 1959, he graduated with a degree in naval engineering. He then became an ensign in the U.S. Navy.
As a naval aviator, Jack London flew planes from aircraft carriers. He went on 33 missions in different parts of the world. He was part of an anti-submarine warfare unit during the Cold War. This unit helped find and track enemy submarines.
He was also part of the team that helped recover John Glenn's space capsule. This was after Glenn's historic flight on Friendship 7. In 1962, he served aboard the USS Randolph (CV-15) during the Cuban Missile Crisis.
After his active duty, London continued his education. He earned a master's degree from the Naval Postgraduate School in 1967. In 1971, he received a doctorate in business from George Washington University.
Leading CACI: A Technology Company
Jack London used his knowledge of computer technology from the Navy. In 1972, he joined CACI as a consultant. He quickly moved up in the company. By 1976, he was a vice president. In 1981, he joined the board of directors.
In 1984, CACI's co-founder, Herb Karr, asked London to become the president and CEO. London was a very involved leader. He helped CACI become profitable and grow. He also helped the company adapt to new technologies. CACI started focusing on information security and helping intelligence agencies.
Jack London was known for always signing his letters with "Always my best-Jack." He believed in doing things with high standards. He created an ethics program for CACI. This was ten years before other government contractors were required to have one. CACI was recognized for having a great ethics program. Jack London was also named one of the most influential people in business ethics.
London also wrote books. He was the lead author of Character: The Ultimate Success Factor.
