Roger G. Ackerman, former CEO and board chairman at Corning Incorporated, died July 30 after a long battle with illness, according to his family and the company.
Ackerman, 83, was with Corning Inc. for 39 years, serving as CEO and chairman of the board from 1996 to 2001.
Ackerman’s leadership helped guide company into new era
He transformed the company originally know for its ceramic cookware into one on the cutting edge of optical technology, according to The Evening Tribune.
Ackerman joined Corning Inc. in 1962 after receiving his Master’s Degree in Ceramic Engineering from Rutgers University that same year. He succeded James R. Houghton as CEO in 1996.
More: Corning Inc. helps James Webb telescope capture images from far cosmos
“Roger will be remembered as a resilient leader who helped focus Corning’s strategy and leveraged our strength in materials science to drive innovation,” said current Corining Inc. Chairman and CEO Wendell Weeks. “His impact and legacy are ingrained in our history, and we are so proud to have had his leadership.”
Ackerman is survived by his wife Maureen Egan Ackerman and his four children.
Calling hours are from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. on Tuesday, August 9 at Phillips Funeral Home in Corning. A private family service will be held at a later date.
