2010 Hall of Fame

H. Robert Gill

Bob Gill has developed an impressive résumé since he graduated magna cum laude (with high honors) in 1960 with a degree in electronic engineering. First, Gill quickly moved up the ranks at Magnavox, eventually overseeing the $50 million international marine electronics division. While at Magnavox, Gill earned both his master’s degree in electrical engineering from Purdue University and his MBA from Pepperdine University.

From Magnavox, Gill moved on to become president of the Ball Corp.’s Industrial Systems Division where he created a new industrial instruments and systems business and grew it to $21 million in sales worldwide.

In the 1980s, Gill and his wife, Lois, moved from California to the Boulder, Colo., area, where Gill continued to develop his gift for recognizing and developing potential in companies and in individuals. In fact, Gill has said that the course he found most useful in developing businesses was actually a psychology course. Using that insight into people and the way they think and work made Gill a very sought-after advisor and leader, with many companies requesting his expertise.

During his productive and distinguished career, he has held senior level positions at a number of prestigious companies such as Frontier Corp., where he was senior vice president and president. Other titles he’s held include: chairman, executive chairman, president, and CEO. His expertise in taking companies to the highest level is also shown in his work as a venture partner in Appian Ventures from 2003 through the present, and as principal for the Topaz Group. Gill founded this consulting firm in 1996, and it is going strong, providing consulting services, mentoring, and direction for high tech private equity groups and emerging public and private companies.

This aspect of service and guiding others toward their own success is a strong part of Gill’s character. It can be seen in his service as chairman of the board for the Boulder Innovation Center and as chairman emeritus of the Deming Center for Entrepreneurship at the University of Colorado, where he continues to serve as chairman of the development committee. Indiana Tech has been privileged to benefit from Gill’s expert perspective as a member of our Board of Trustees since July 2009.