WPI's best-known alumnus is Robert
Goddard, who graduated in 1908 and is widely regarded as the Father of Modern Rocketry. Another successful graduate is
Robert Stempel, inventor of the catalytic converter and former Chairman
and CEO of General Motors. A third important alumni is Harold S Black who revolutionized
electronics by inventing negative feedback in 1921. WPI is also known for its famous drop-outs. Dean Kamen, who left the school without finishing his degree, invented the first portable insulin pump and the
Segway Human Transporter. In Japan, a famous alumnus is Koutaro Shimomura, chemical engineer. After graduating, he became president of Doshisha University and Osaka Gas Co., Ltd.