Distinguished Engineering Alumnus
Award Recipient
Thomas R. McPherson Jr. — 2004
This distinguished alumnus earned his bachelor's degree in 1976 and his master's degree in 1977, both in electrical engineering from North Carolina State University. He also earned a bachelor's degree in physics from Davidson College in 1976 and an engineer's degree from George Washington University in 1981.
A native of Mebane, NC, he began his career at Digital Communications Corporation.
He cofounded Pel Corporation and later led Network Equipment Technologies through its initial public offering in 1987. He then joined Hughes Network Systems and started DirecPC. In 1996 he formed Rapid City Communications. His most recent venture was launching Hatteras Networks Inc., where he was president and CEO. He continues to serve on the company's technical advisory board.
He currently has a consulting firm based in Potomac, Maryland. A dedicated NC State supporter, he serves as Achieve! Campaign cochairman for the College and sits on the advisory board for the NC State Entrepreneurs' Program.
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Also awarded in 2004
Thomas R. McPherson Jr.