John H. McConnell

From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia

This article is about the American industrialist. For the Canadian politician, see John Henry McConnell.

John H. McConnell is the founder and chairman emeritus of Worthington Industries, which manufactures processed steel products, pressure cylinders, and metal framing. He is currently the majority owner, chairman, and governor of the Columbus Blue Jackets NHL team. In addition, McConnell is a part of the ownership group of the AFL's Columbus Destroyers.

A native of West Virginia, McConnell served in the navy aboard the USS Saratoga during World War II. He went on to receive a degree in Business Administration from Michigan State University in 1949. As a young steel salesman, he founded Worthington Industries in 1955, using his car as collateral to purchase his first load of steel for custom processing. His grandson is currently a junior at Olentangy Liberty High School.