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Walter L. Robb

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Article Genealogy
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Walter L. Robb
NameWalter L. Robb
Birth date22 December 1928
Birth placeAlbany, New York, U.S.
Alma materRensselaer Polytechnic Institute (B.S., M.S.)
OccupationChemical engineer, business executive
Known forLeadership at General Electric, corporate director
SpouseMary Ellen Robb

Walter L. Robb is an American chemical engineer and business executive renowned for his long and influential career at the General Electric Company. Rising through the ranks of the General Electric Research Laboratory, he became a senior vice president and played a pivotal role in expanding the corporation's global technology and manufacturing footprint. Following his retirement from General Electric, he built a distinguished second career as a leading independent director on the boards of major Fortune 500 corporations and contributed to academic and scientific institutions.

Early life and education

Walter L. Robb was born on December 22, 1928, in Albany, New York. He pursued his higher education at Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, a premier institution for engineering and technological research. At Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, he earned both a Bachelor of Science and a Master of Science degree in chemical engineering, laying a strong technical foundation for his future career. His academic work at the Troy, New York campus positioned him for entry into the industrial research sector during the post-World War II technological boom.

Career at General Electric

Robb joined the General Electric Research Laboratory in Schenectady, New York in 1951 as a chemical engineer. He advanced through significant leadership roles, including manager of the Chemical and Metallurgical Division and later head of the entire General Electric Research Laboratory. In 1977, he was appointed a vice president of the parent General Electric Company and general manager of its Plastics Business Division, overseeing major operations for materials like Lexan and Noryl. He was named a senior vice president in 1982, with subsequent executive responsibility for the International Sector and the Corporate Research and Development center, driving initiatives across Europe, Asia, and Latin America. Robb retired from General Electric in 1993 after a 42-year tenure marked by contributions to polymer science, international business strategy, and corporate innovation.

Post-GE career and board memberships

After leaving General Electric, Robb embarked on a prolific career as a corporate director, known for his expertise in governance, technology, and global operations. He served as the lead independent director for Exxon Mobil Corporation following the merger of Exxon and Mobil. His other notable board memberships included Dell Technologies, Marriott International, Union Pacific Corporation, and International Flavors & Fragrances. He also contributed his leadership to philanthropic and educational organizations, serving as chairman of the Albany Medical Center and as a trustee for Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute and the Georgia Institute of Technology. His counsel was frequently sought by NASDAQ and New York Stock Exchange-listed companies on matters of research strategy and international expansion.

Awards and honors

Robb's professional achievements have been recognized with numerous prestigious awards. He was elected a member of the National Academy of Engineering in 1987 for leadership in industrial research and development. In 1994, he received the Industrial Research Institute Medal for outstanding accomplishment in technological innovation. Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute awarded him the Davies Medal for entrepreneurial achievement and an honorary Doctor of Science degree. Other honors include the Chemical Industry Medal from the Society of Chemical Industry and induction into the Junior Achievement U.S. Business Hall of Fame.

Personal life

Walter L. Robb is married to Mary Ellen Robb, and the couple has three children. He has maintained a connection to his alma mater, Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, through philanthropic support, including a major gift that named the Walter L. Robb Director's Suite at the Rensselaer Technology Park. His personal and professional papers are archived at the Institute Archives and Special Collections at Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, documenting his impact on American industry.

Category:American chemical engineers Category:General Electric people Category:1928 births Category:Living people Category:National Academy of Engineering members Category:Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute alumni