Distinguished Engineering Alumnus
Award Recipient
Katharine Stinson — 1971
The first woman to receive an Engineering degree from North Carolina State, this distinguished graduate received a B.S. degree in 1941 in Mechanical Engineering with an Aeronautical Option. That same year, she joined the Civil Aeronautics Administration (now the Federal Aviation Administration) where she has been employed ever since, amassing a distinguished record of contributions to her profession.
The first woman engineer to be hired by the Administration, she has been in charge of a variety of complex engineering assignments. Her versatile background as a well-qualified pilot and her knowledge of engine and airframe maintenance have made her an invaluable asset to this nation.
In 1962, she became Chief, Regulations and Procedures Staff, FAA, where she was in charge of the Safety Regulation Program for the Engineering and Manufacturing Division. In 1964, she assumed the greater responsibilities of Technical Assistant to the Division Chief.
She has devoted untiring efforts to the cause that women must play an ever-increasing role in the field of engineering. Active in the affairs of the Society of Women Engineers, she served as National President during 1953-55.
Katharine Stinson