The Indianapolis Motor Speedway Museum has recently unveiled the appointment of Chuck Jones as the new chairman of its board of directors. An alumnus of Purdue University, Jones has established a distinguished reputation in the realm of design and product development. He currently holds a key role as the Chief Design Officer at GE HealthCare, overseeing the global design for both physical and digital products.
Jones’ impressive portfolio boasts numerous accolades and achievements, including the prestigious Smithsonian National Design Award, supported by the White House. He has secured 43 patents to his name and has garnered over 1,000 international product design awards.
Apart from his illustrious career in design and product development, Jones has a deep-rooted passion for vintage Indy car restoration. Serving on the IMS Museum board since 2019, he has significantly contributed to the organization. Jones will be succeeding Rob Dyson, who served as board chair for the previous four years and was instrumental in commencing a new era for the Museum with the launch of The Stories Behind the Spectacle Capital Campaign.
Expressing gratitude for Dyson’s exceptional leadership, Jones acknowledges his predecessor’s efforts in establishing a solid groundwork for the future progression of the Museum. He said, “His focus and action mindset have built a solid foundation that will benefit the Museum for years to come.”
Jones’ connection with the Indianapolis Motor Speedway extends beyond his professional involvement. Born in Covington, Indiana, he has been an ardent race fan all his life. Jones reminisces about his past visits to the Indianapolis 500 with his father, where he witnessed the evolution of the track and cars from the 1960s to the present.
In his new role as the chairman of the Museum’s board of directors, Jones considers it an honor and privilege. He said, “It’s an honor and privilege to lead the Museum’s board of directors and I have a warm place in my heart for the IMS Museum. From the time it was located outside of Turn 1 to its present location, the spark for my passion for Indy car racing was ignited there.”
Adding another feather to his cap, Jones has restored 11 Indy cars to date. He started racing go-karts at the tender age of 10, obtained his professional racing license at 15, and continues to actively race vintage Indy cars, clinching multiple championships across various racing series. Jones’ appointment marks an exciting chapter for the Indianapolis Motor Speedway Museum, with his vast experience and passion poised to propel the institution to new heights.