Boeing Supplier Whistleblower Dies After Sudden Infection Takes Hold

By Avinash Vj

Dean, who was reportedly let go from Spirit AeroSystems in April 2023, succumbed to complications from pneumonia and a methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) infection after spending two weeks in critical condition in Oklahoma City. MRSA, a bacterial infection resistant to many common antibiotics, poses significant challenges in treatment, especially when contracted in healthcare settings.

The unfortunate demise of Dean adds to the concerns raised by whistleblowers within Boeing's supply chain. John Barnett, another whistleblower, was found dead in his car earlier, raising questions about the safety and protection of individuals who speak out against potential malpractices in the aerospace industry.

While any insinuation of a connection between these deaths and secretive efforts to silence whistleblowers may seem far-fetched, the string of whistleblowers coming forth with testimonies against Boeing underscores broader concerns regarding safety culture and potential malpractices within the company.

In response to these concerns, members of the US Senate Permanent Subcommittee on Investigations, including Richard Blumenthal and Ron Johnson, have raised alarms about safety culture issues and invited Boeing's President and CEO, David Calhoun, to a hearing. Boeing has stated its cooperation with the inquiry, acknowledging the critical oversight responsibilities of regulatory bodies.

Meanwhile, allegations of retaliation against whistleblowers within Boeing have surfaced, with the Society of Professional Engineering Employees in Aerospace (SPEEA) filing a complaint with the National Labor Relations Board (NLRB). SPEEA claims that two engineers were retaliated against after raising concerns about the Boeing 777 and 787 aircraft, adding another layer of complexity to the ongoing scrutiny surrounding Boeing's practices.

As investigations continue and whistleblowers step forward, the aerospace industry faces mounting pressure to address safety concerns and foster a culture of accountability and transparency to ensure the integrity and safety of air travel.

It's with a heavy heart that we share the passing of Josh Dean, a former employee of Spirit AeroSystems, a key supplier for Boeing. His battle with pneumonia and a resistant bacterial infection underscores the challenges faced by whistleblowers in our industry. Josh's passing, along with the unfortunate fate of another Boeing whistleblower earlier this year, emphasizes the need for robust protections for those who speak out. While any suggestions of foul play remain unproven, these incidents shed light on broader safety culture concerns within Boeing. As investigations continue, it's crucial for the aerospace sector to prioritize transparency and accountability to uphold the highest standards of safety in air travel.