William L. Wishlinski

For his outstanding contributions as an engineer, manager, and leader, the Purdue University Schools of Engineering are proud to present the Distinguished Engineering Alumnus Award to William L. Wishlinski.

Vice President and General Manager, Chemicals and Polymers
Amoco Chemical Europe
BS '68, Chemical Engineering


Wishlinski bust

From his Purdue years to present

Mr. Wishlinski joined Amoco Chemical after graduation as an associate engineer. He moved through successive positions in central engineering, and in 1977 was named process supervisor at the company's plant in Texas City, Texas. After receiving a master's degree in business administration from the University of Houston in 1980, Mr. Wishlinski was appointed to several marketing positions including group product manager, Olefins and Styrene, and manager, Olefins and Export Sales. In January 1989 he was appointed general manager, Operations Planning and Product Logistics, and was responsible for managing the transportation, marketing services, information services, and economic analysis functions of the firm. He was named to his current position in January of this year. Based in Geneva, Mr. Wishlinski is responsible for the manufacturing, sales, and marketing functions for Chemicals and Polymers for Amoco Chemical Europe.

 

  • "Of course Purdue provides an excellent education," says Mr. Wishlinski, "but I really think there's more to it than that."

     

  • "What it comes down to is, I believe, a work ethic. I think there's a great deal of dedication in the Purdue engineering community--a spirit of commitment and teamwork."

     

  • "I can still feel that kind of spirit when I return to campus, and I feel it when I travel and meet other Purdue grads. There's a bond that is unexplainable."

Wishlinski at the game

His thoughts for the graduating engineer:

"Sometimes I wish I were 25 years younger, because there are truly limitless opportunities for the young engineer today. Always try to be aware of the important challenges--not only from the technical and business points of view, but from the points of view of the community, environment, and society."