Electrical Engineering Hall of Fame: Walter R. G. Baker [Scanning Our Past]

In 1952, the Institute of Radio Engineers (IRE) awarded its Medal of Honor to Walter R. G. Baker (Fig. 1). He was cited for "his outstanding direction of scientific and engineering projects" and "his statesmanship in reconciling conflicting viewpoints and obtaining cooperative effort." The citation also noted "his service to the Institute." He spent most of his professional career of more than four decades with the General Electric company (GE). He became well known in the profession for his effective leadership as chairman of the National Television System Committee (NTSC). In that capacity, he orchestrated efforts by representatives of the industry and government regulators to establish national standards for television broadcasting.