April 6, 2023 | Claire Tremont

Recognizing Alum and NASA Public Servant Andrew Hoffman

UConn School of Engineering Alum Andrew Hoffman died March 24 at his home in East Windsor, Connecticut. He was 91, according to the family obituary.

By Claire Galvin, UConn School of Engineering Manager of Communications and Digital Strategy

Andrew Hoffman died March 24 at his home in East Windsor, Connecticut. He was 91, according to the family obituary.

“Andy wanted to be remembered as a good man who worked hard to make his country and community better because of his dedication and work ethic,” his obituary read.

Assistant Dean of Administrative Operations & Strategic Initiatives Kylene Perras echoed these comments about the 1953 graduate.

“Andy was a salt-of-the-earth individual,” Perras said. “He was a true gentleman, a sincere advocate to our University, and a kind soul that our School of Engineering will forever miss.”

Perras said she worked closely with Hoffman when he was invited into the Academy, a recognition he was especially proud of.

Despite that award and his incredibly impressive resume, Perras said Hoffman was humble and never made anyone feel less than their worth.

Hoffman was inducted into the UConn Academy of Distinguished Engineers in 2016. The Academy recognizes the brightest engineers, alumni and friends, who have made significant contributions to the engineering profession through research, education, practice, policy or service.

Hoffman graduated from the UConn School of Engineering Electrical and Systems Engineering program in 1953. After graduation he joined Hamilton Standard, later the United Technology Corporation (UTC), rising through the ranks before he retired in 1987 as the Executive Vice President.

According to the family obituary, Hoffman devoted much of his career to the United States Manned Space Program. He was part of the company’s team that designed and developed the Apollo space suit assembly, the Apollo and Space Shuttle life support systems and the Skylab crew equipment.

After retiring, he formed a consulting firm East Windsor Associates, where he continued to consult for  the National Aeronautics and Space Administration, UTC, Boeing, McDonnell and others.

According to the obituary, he was most proud of his company’s and his personal contributions to the Apollo 13 rescue mission.

Because of his diligent work he was recognized with several awards, including two NASA Public Service Awards.