A Tech alumnus whom helped create the modern stealth bomber and researched technology to keep airplanes and cars from crashing is this semester’s commencement ceremony speaker.Allen Atkins is speaking at commencement Dec. 18 in the Hooper Eblen Center.
While at Tech, Atkins served and provided leadership on the Industrial Advisory Board and the Dean’s Advisory Board. He helped the College of Engineering create a blueprint to enhance research and scholarly activities. Atkins was one of the first two graduates awarded doctoral degrees in engineering at Tech.
Atkins received his undergraduate degree in electrical engineering in 1970, his masters in systems engineering in 1971 and his doctorate in engineering in 1975. He served in the United States Air Force from 1973 to 1980.
It was Atkins’ technical leadership that brought about the success of the country’s stealth programs. Atkins spearheaded the development of Mini-Remotely Piloted Vehicles (RPVs). He helped develop an electric version, a solar powered RPV and a truly stealthy model.
Success of these models of aircraft led to the eventual development of the F-117 Stealth Fighter.
In 1990, Atkins became the vice president and general manager of McDonnell Douglas Technology Inc., a company which specialized in making things “invisible.
