University of Cincinnati Honors William J. Kramer Jr.

The University of Cincinnati College of Engineering and Applied Science (CEAS) has honored alumnus William J. Kramer, Jr. with its Lifetime Achievement Award, the highest alumni distinction bestowed by the college.

The Lifetime Achievement Award recognizes CEAS alumni whose distinguished careers exemplify the college’s enduring commitment to excellence, professional achievement, and service. Kramer’s five decades of leadership at General Tool Company reflect those values through sustained innovation, mentorship, and contributions to mission-critical industries.

During his 50-year tenure leading General Tool Company, Kramer championed engineering excellence while actively supporting the development of future engineers. Under his leadership, the company contributed to several high-profile programs, including the design and manufacture of advanced welding systems used in the construction of the Space Shuttle, as well as turbine-powered electrical generators for U.S. Navy destroyers.

Today, General Tool Company is widely recognized as an industry-leading supplier of precision hardware and engineered systems serving aerospace and defense manufacturers. Kramer’s vision and commitment to technical rigor helped establish the foundation for the company’s long-standing reputation for quality, reliability, and innovation.

The recognition from CEAS underscores Kramer’s lasting impact on the engineering profession, the defense industrial base, and the next generation of engineers.