The original William F. Troxler Design Center opened its doors in Daniels Hall on November 12, 1997

Unique in the history of the college, the Troxler gift, totaling $157,000, represented the first time an individual had entirely funded the renovation of a laboratory or facility.

"As a student in engineering at NC State in the early 1950's, I worked on my design projects on my small kitchen table," said Troxler. "I am proud of my degree from NC State and have wanted to somehow continue my involvement with the university. Providing the funds for this design center seemed to be the best way to show my appreciation for the education I received from this great institution."

Located in Daniels Hall, the original Troxler Center provided state-of-the-art laboratory space for electrical and computer engineering students and offered nearly 24-hour availability of equipment to students working on design projects. The center also served as the classroom for design courses, providing hands on experience for students.

Mr. Troxler received his bachelor's degree in electrical engineering from NC State in 1952.

In 1956, he started Troxler Electronic Laboratories Inc., and the company has grown to a large international business with two subsidiaries, Troxler International Ltd. and Troxler World Trade Corp. In 1985, he was selected as a Distinguished Engineering Alumnus in the College of Engineering.

Dean Nino A. Masnari said of Troxler, "He exemplifies what an engineer really is and should be. He takes fundamental principles and knowledge and applies those to solving problems. That is how he has been so successful, starting as a one man operation and expanding to what is now an international operation. He truly is a shining example of what engineers can be."

In 2005, the Troxler Design Center moved to serve a new generation of engineers.

When the Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering moved to its new home on Centennial Campus, the Troxler family donated an additional $250,000 to continue the Troxler commitment to engineering education. Located in Engineering Building II, the new center boasts expanded workbench space, meeting cluster areas for small design groups, and better equipment infrastructure.

Original publication by Jennifer Weston, Engineering Communications.
Updates by ECE Webteam.