Edward H. Williams

American mining engineer and academic

Edward Higginson Williams Jr. (June 1, 1849 – November 2, 1933) was an American mining engineer, academic, and author. He was a prominent figure in the field of mining engineering and played a significant role in the development of Lehigh University's engineering programs.

Early life and education

Edward H. Williams was born in Proctorsville, Vermont, to Edward Higginson Williams Sr. and Mary Ann Williams. He was educated at Phillips Academy in Andover, Massachusetts, and later attended Yale University, where he graduated with a degree in mining engineering in 1871.

Career

Mining engineering

After completing his education, Williams began his career in the mining industry. He worked in various capacities, including as a mining engineer and consultant, contributing to the development of mining operations across the United States. His expertise in mining engineering was widely recognized, and he became a sought-after consultant in the field.

Academic career

Edward H. Williams Jr.

In 1875, Williams joined the faculty of Lehigh University as a professor of mining engineering. He was instrumental in expanding the university's engineering curriculum and was known for his innovative teaching methods. Williams emphasized practical, hands-on experience for his students, which was a novel approach at the time.

Williams also authored several textbooks and papers on mining engineering, which were used widely in academic institutions. His contributions to the field of engineering education were significant, and he was regarded as a pioneer in integrating practical experience with academic learning.

Contributions to Lehigh University

During his tenure at Lehigh University, Williams played a key role in the establishment of the university's mining engineering program. He advocated for the inclusion of laboratory work and field studies in the curriculum, which helped prepare students for real-world challenges in the mining industry.

Williams also served as a mentor to many students who went on to have successful careers in engineering. His dedication to education and his students left a lasting impact on the university and the field of engineering.

Later life and legacy

Williams retired from Lehigh University in 1914 but remained active in the field of engineering. He continued to write and consult on mining engineering projects until his death in 1933.

His legacy is preserved through his contributions to engineering education and his influence on the development of mining engineering as a discipline. Lehigh University honors his memory through various initiatives and scholarships in his name.

Related pages

• Lehigh University
• Mining engineering
• Phillips Academy