| (1881
- 1956) |
| Inducted: |
1984 |
| Region: |
West |
| Industry: |
Transportation
Manufacturing |
|
William E. Boeing took flying lessons and decided to build airplanes. In 1916 The Boeing Company produced a seaplane made of spruce, linen, and wire, with a top speed of 75 mph. Boeing combined extensive research, high-quality production, and clever cost cutting to propel the company to the top of the industry. He won contracts by underbidding his competitors. He organized United Airlines and stocked it with 25 specially designed heavy-duty Boeing planes. In 1928 Boeing formed a holding company, United Aircraft & Transport Corp., with several other manufacturers and carriers. |
