Alfred Still

2.1. Early Life and Education

Still was born in Gloucestershire, England, on January 28, 1869. From 1879 to 1885, he received his primary education in Dieppe, Normandy, France. At the age of 16, he enrolled at Finsbury Technical College in London, England, where he studied under the notable Dr. Silvanus P. Thompson. He successfully graduated from the college in 1889.

2.2. Career in England

Following his graduation, Still immediately applied his expertise to practical engineering projects in England. He played a role in the development of the first hydroelectric power plant in the country. Later, he established himself as a designer and manufacturer of electrical machinery in Manchester, England, contributing to the burgeoning electrical industry.

2.3. Career in Canada and Academia

In early 1911, Still relocated to Canada to engage in hydroelectric development projects for the Lake Superior Power Company, which maintained its central office in Sault Ste. Marie, Ontario. His work in Canada further expanded his practical experience in large-scale power infrastructure. In 1913, he joined the faculty of Purdue University in the United States, where he was appointed to take charge of instruction in Electrical Engineering. He served as an educator there for many years, shaping the minds of future engineers, before retiring as Professor Emeritus in 1935.

2.4. Retirement

Even after his retirement from Purdue University in 1935, Alfred Still maintained an active and prolific writing career. He co-authored one textbook and penned three general science books, alongside one book exploring aspects of scientific philosophy. He also authored at least one novel during this period, showcasing his diverse intellectual interests beyond core engineering.

3.1. Electrical Engineering Practice

Still's practical contributions were significant, particularly in the early development of electrical infrastructure. He was involved in the pioneering work of establishing England's first hydroelectric power plant, a foundational step in the country's energy landscape. Furthermore, his role as a designer and manufacturer of electrical machinery in Manchester demonstrated his hands-on expertise in creating the tools and systems that powered industrial growth. His subsequent work on hydroelectric development in Canada for the Lake Superior Power Company further underscored his direct involvement in large-scale, impactful engineering projects that contributed to technological advancement and infrastructure development.

3.2. Academic Contributions

As an academic, Alfred Still played a pivotal role in shaping the field of electrical engineering education. His long tenure as an instructor and professor at Purdue University, where he was in charge of Electrical Engineering instruction, allowed him to directly influence generations of aspiring engineers. Through his teaching, he imparted fundamental knowledge and practical insights, contributing significantly to the advancement and standardization of electrical engineering education.

4.1. Technical Books

Still authored several foundational textbooks on electrical engineering topics, which became important resources for students and professionals alike:

• Alternating Currents of Electricity and the Theory of Transformers (1898, Whittaker)
• Polyphase Currents (1914, McGraw-Hill)
• Principles of electrical design; d. c. and a. c. generators (1916, McGraw-Hill)
• Principle of Transformer Design (1919, McGraw-Hill)
• Elements of electrical design (1924, McGraw-Hill)
• Overhead electric power transmission: principles and calculations (1931, McGraw-Hill)
• Elements of Electrical Machine Design (1954, McGraw-Hill), co-authored with Charles Siskind.

4.2. General Science and Philosophy Books

Beyond his technical expertise, Still also explored wider scientific and philosophical themes in his writings, demonstrating his broad intellectual curiosity:

• Soul of Amber: The Background of Electrical Science (1944, Murray Hill Books)
• Soul of Lodestone: The Background of Magnetic Science (1946, Murray Hill)
• Communication through the ages: from sign language to television (1946, Murray Hill)
• Borderlands of Science (1950, Rider)

In addition to these, he also authored at least one novel, though its title is not widely documented.

5.1. Fellow of the American Institute of Electrical Engineers

In recognition of his significant achievements and standing in the profession, Alfred Still was designated a Fellow of the American Institute of Electrical Engineers in 1914. This fellowship is a prestigious honor, acknowledging his impact on electrical engineering.