Joseph Liston

Joseph Liston earned bachelor’s and master’s degrees in mechanical engineering in the 1930s. As a naval aviator, Liston pioneered developing techniques for landing on aircraft carriers – a critical milestone in aviation history. Committed to Purdue beyond his student years, he was a College of Engineering faculty member from 1937 to 1972. Renowned as "Piston Joe," Liston focused his research on advancing aircraft engine technology, contributing significantly to the field. Moreover, he played a crucial role in establishing Purdue's School of Aeronautics.