Global Engineering Leader Joe Thompson ’81 Joins Clarkson University Board of Trustees

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Clarkson University has appointed alumnus Joe Thompson '81 to its Board of Trustees, effective June 17, 2026. A respected business leader with more than four decades of international leadership experience, Thompson brings valuable insight to Clarkson as the University advances its impact in engineering, technology, innovation and workforce development.

During a distinguished 43-year career with Bechtel, one of the world's leading engineering, construction and project management companies, Thompson led the delivery of complex industrial projects across Asia, the Middle East and North America.

Living and working in multiple countries, he developed deep expertise in project execution, organizational leadership, financial and contractual management and the delivery of large-scale engineering solutions. His career reflects the technical excellence, global perspective and leadership capabilities at the heart of a Clarkson education.

As a Bechtel partner, Thompson played a key role in talent development, strategic planning and advancing the company's commitment to safety, quality and project delivery excellence. He also championed Bechtel's "One Team" culture, fostering collaboration while leading purposeful and sustainable projects and building high-performing teams and strong relationships with colleagues, customers and partners.

"Clarkson played an important role in my career, and I'm honored to have the opportunity to give back," Thompson says. "I am excited by this opportunity to apply the knowledge and experience I've gained in the engineering, procurement and construction industry to help the University continue to thrive."

Thompson earned a bachelor's degree in chemical engineering from Clarkson University and completed the Construction Executive Program at Texas A&M University. He is a registered professional engineer with inactive licensure.

"Joe dedicated his career to leading people and delivering some of the world's most complex processing and manufacturing facilities," says Board of Trustees Chair Nancy Reyda. "His engineering expertise, global business perspective and commitment to developing strong teams will be a tremendous asset to the Board. We are thrilled to welcome Joe as Clarkson continues to prepare the engineers, scientists and innovators our country needs to succeed in the global economy."

Thompson's appointment also reflects the enduring influence of Clarkson alumni across the industries and organizations shaping the future. Clarkson graduates lead at the intersection of technology, business and society, applying their education to solve consequential challenges and create meaningful impact around the world.

Following his retirement from Bechtel, Thompson and his wife, Linda, settled in Pebble Beach, California. An avid mountain biker and skier, he continues to share his leadership experience by serving organizations where he can make a positive impact.