Walt Robb, ’51 Ph.D., will visit the University of Illinois this month to visit with students and faculty and hold a book signing in Roger Adams Laboratory.
A born entrepreneur and risk-taker, Walt Robb has been behind successful businesses since he was eight years old when he and a friend launched a roadside lemonade stand. Fast forward several years, Robb earned his Ph.D. in chemical engineering from the University of Illinois in three years and advanced through the ranks at GE.
In 1973, he saved the company’s struggling medical imaging business. As the CT scanning revolution got underway and MRI technology took off, Robb oversaw the business expand from a break-even, $100 million business to a highly profitable and growing enterprise. In 1993, President Bill Clinton presented Robb with a National Medal of Technology and Innovation for his foresight and leadership in the MRI and CT imaging industry. He is a recipient of the University of Illinois Alumni Achievement Award and the President’s Medallion.
Robb will return to his alma mater on May 14 for a book signing and reception. His new book, “Taking Risks: Getting Ahead in Business and Life,” delves into his approach to life and business and offers advice for students and new graduates, technology start-ups, and managers at all levels. He also shares insights on his 20 years of working under fellow UI graduate and GE’s longtime CEO Jack Welch.
Event Details
WHAT: Book Signing With Author Walt Robb
WHEN: 4-5:30 p.m. Thursday, May 14
WHERE: Roger Adams Laboratory, north lobby
600 South Mathews Ave., Urbana