Stewart Wills
About Stewart Wills
Stewart Wills is a Senior Editor and Content Director at Optics & Photonics News, where he oversees editorial strategy and content production across various platforms. He has extensive experience in web content development and has held significant editorial roles at notable organizations such as Science Magazine and Smith Barney & Co.
Work at Optica Publishing Group
Stewart Wills serves as the Senior Editor and Content Director for Optics & Photonics News at Optica Publishing Group. He has held this position since 2013, overseeing editorial strategy and content production across various platforms, including print, web, and mobile. His role involves supervising teams that manage both back-end workflow and front-end development. Wills has been instrumental in the strategic direction and long-term planning of the publication's website, particularly during significant changes in scientific communication.
Previous Experience in Editorial Roles
Before joining Optica Publishing Group, Stewart Wills worked as the Editorial Director for Web and New Media at Science Magazine/AAAS from 2000 to 2013. In this role, he focused on enhancing the magazine's online presence and content offerings. Earlier in his career, he was an Associate Editor at Smith Barney & Co. from 1983 to 1987, where he contributed to editorial projects for four years. His diverse experience has equipped him with skills in managing sizable projects, including site redevelopment and usability evaluation.
Education and Expertise
Stewart Wills has an extensive educational background in geology and related fields. He earned a Ph.D. in Geological Sciences from Columbia University in the City of New York, where he studied from 1994 to 2000. Prior to that, he obtained a BS in Geology from Rutgers University, studying from 1991 to 1993, and also studied Geology at Indiana University Bloomington for 11 months in 1993. Additionally, he holds a BA in English from the University of California, Los Angeles, which he completed from 1977 to 1981. His academic foundation supports his expertise in web content development, including proficiency in HTML, CSS, XML, and Perl.
Content Development and Innovation
Stewart Wills has a strong track record in crafting and launching new content offerings. His experience includes developing podcasts, online videos, and interactive visualizations, which have enhanced audience engagement and expanded the reach of scientific communication. His strategic approach to content development has allowed him to effectively address the evolving needs of a global audience across multiple platforms.