John Sterman was a famous scientist and engineer who worked on projects that could help improve the world. He was known for developing mathematical methods to analyse complex dynamics of systems, like weather, rolling stocks, and urban planning. He also made important contributions to the development of computer science, including the important idea that computers should be able to "learn" from data and adjust themselves to new tasks. Sterman's work has inspired generations of researchers and his research has been responsible for a number of breakthroughs in the field, like artificial intelligence and robotics.