William E. Field is a Professor in Agricultural and Biological Engineering at Purdue University. Bill received his B.S. from the State University College at Buffalo, New York, and his M.A. and Ed.D from the University of Minnesota. He began as extension safety specialist and assistant professor in Agricultural Engineering at Purdue in 1977. Bill provides leadership for both the department and Purdue University's agricultural health and safety program which includes teaching, research and extension education components. He also supervises the Breaking New Ground Outreach Program which provides assistance to farmers with physical handicaps.

Among his many honors, Bill received the first Hoosier Safety Council Award presented in 1987, the USDA Superior Service Award in 1989, the Eric G. Sharvelle Distinguished Extension Specialist Award for services to the people of rural Indiana in 1989. He also received the Distinguished Service Award from the American Agricultural Editor's Association for his contributions to the field of agricultural safety and health education. In 2002, he received the Sagamore of the Wabash from Indiana's Governor for services to rural residents of the state. In 2004 he was the recipient of the M.L. King Spirit of Justice Award for his work with farm families impacted by disability.