William N. Poundstone

William N. Poundstone's career spanned over 35 years of professional engineering, managerial and executive experience in the coal mining and related mining industries. His knowledge of the industry is evidenced by many contributions to the mining industry, particularly in the field of continuous mining machines, coal transportation devices and de-gasification of coal seams. Following graduation from West Virginia University, he worked for Christopher Coal Company as a production engineer, section foreman, belt foreman and preparation engineer until 1955. Throughout his career, he was responsible for opening the Humphrey Mine, he served as the general superintendent of the Arkwright, Osage and Booth Mines. He was promoted to executive vice president of Consolidation Coal Company and was placed in charge of all of CONSOL's operating properties. He retired in 1982. Poundstone's professional achievements have led to numerous honors including: AME-AIME Percy Nicholls Award for Notable Scientific Achievement in the Field of Solid Fuels (1979), ASME Distinguished Member Award (1979), SME-AIME Distinguished Member (1979) and AIME Erskin Ramsey Medal for Outstanding Engineering Accomplishments (1980) Poundstone was awarded an honorary Doctor of Science degree from WVU in 1981 and the Statler College of Mineral and Energy Resources Outstanding Alumni Award for 35 years of contributions to the coal industry and service to the College in 1991.