Graduate of Harvard University - A.B. magna cum laude, 1913; M.C.E. School of Applied Sciences, 1914. During post-graduate course and for 2 years thereafter, engaged in teaching and tutoring.
On Nov. 4,1916, hired as a millwright helper by Steel Products Co., Inc., Cleveland, OH, the name of which was changed in 1926 to Thompson Products, Inc. In 1922, was made manager of Detroit, Michigan plant, where he remained until 1929, when he was recalled to Cleveland to become 1st Vice President and General Manager of the company. Elected a director on May 18,1926; President on Nov. 29,1933; and Chairman of the Board on Mar. 31,1953.
Looking to retirement, relinquished duties as Chairman of the Board effective with the merger of Thompson Products, Inc. and its affiliate Nov. 1,1958; became a vice president as well as Chairman of the Executive Committee of Thompson Ramo Wooldridge Inc. On Dec. 27, 1959, retired as an officer of the company, remaining as Chairman of the Executive Committee and as a director. From Jan. 1,1960 to Dec. 31,1985, served as a consultant to the company, the name of which was changed to TRW Inc. effective May 1,1965. On April 30,1963 elected Honorary Chairman of the Board; on April 25, 1967 retired as a director and as Chairman of the Executive Committee; and on the same date was elected an honorary director and re-elected Honorary Chairman of the Board.
Industrialist and aviation pioneer; numerous business, civic, educational, honorary and professional affiliations. Noted for expertise as a fund raiser; has raised millions of dollars for health, welfare and educational organizations. Described as perhaps the "greatest face-to-face communicator that American business has produced" and as a "super showman." Inducted into five Halls of Fame: Elected Charter Patron Member, National Aviation Hall of Fame. Dayton, Ohio, Birthplace of Aviation, June 15,1978; Inducted into National Aviation Hall of Fame. July 24, 1993, Elected Member, International Automobile Hall of Fame. Mar. 16,1979; Western Reserve Aviation Hall of Fame. Meritorious Service Award, Aug. 31,1979; Member, International Hall of Fame. Mar. 16, 1979; and National Business Hall of Fame Award, April 10,1980.