In 1900, American chemist Willis R. Whitney established the first U.S. industrial research laboratory (GERL), Schenectady, New York, at General Electric (GE). Inventions, improvements, new processes and new knowledge, which were obtained and developed in the research laboratory not only in the field of radio electronics, but also in other areas, have become an invaluable asset for both the company and society. This allowed GE to become the largest American Corporation as well as the most diversified Corporation in the world. Whitney became known as"the father of basic research in industry." His organization of research has become a model for industrial science laboratories in other parts of the United States.
General Electric Company, Willis R. Whitney, industrial research laboratory, Schenectady, leadership style, creative atmosphere, recruitment
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