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Benjamin FairlessAmerican entrepreneur, industrialist
Date of Birth: 03.05.1890
Country:  USA |
Content:
Biography of Benjamin Fairless
Benjamin Fairless was an American entrepreneur and industrialist who held leadership positions in several major steel companies. He played a crucial role in the development of the American steel industry during a difficult and important period in its history, and his influence had a significant impact on its growth. Fairless was awarded the 'Medal of Merit' for his active contribution to the industry during World War II. He was widely recognized as a progressive leader and one of the few entrepreneurs of his caliber who supported labor unions.
Early Life and Education
Benjamin Fairless, initially known as Benjamin Williams, was born in Pigeon Run, Ohio. His father, David Dean Williams, was a poor miner, and his mother also came from a mining family. At the age of two, after his mother suffered a serious injury in a horse accident, Benjamin was sent to live with his uncle and aunt. He quickly adapted to his new family and eventually took on their surname. However, he maintained a strong relationship with his parents.
During his school years, Fairless excelled academically while also working various odd jobs. However, his demanding schedule began to affect his grades negatively. It was Charles Blaine McClintock, the nephew of one of his employers, who helped rekindle his interest in education. McClintock not only became Fairless' new boss but also encouraged him to attend college. With McClintock's support, Fairless managed to secure a teaching position alongside his studies.
Fairless graduated from college in 1913 with a bachelor's degree in civil engineering. A year before completing his education, he married Jane Blanche Trubey.
Career in the Steel Industry
After college, Fairless entered the steel industry almost by chance, as he had initially intended to work as a surveyor. Despite having little knowledge of the steel industry, he quickly adapted and climbed the career ladder. In 1926, he became the vice president and general manager of the Central Alloy Steel company.
Fairless held various positions throughout his career, all of which were closely linked to the steel industry. By the start of World War II, he was working for 'US Steel' and played a pivotal role in the company's impressive growth. In 1943, a scandal erupted regarding the supply of substandard steel, prompting Fairless to identify several culprits and dismiss them.
Unlike many other steel industry leaders, Fairless maintained relatively calm relations with labor unions, although conflicts did arise. He sometimes had to openly oppose the unions and occasionally faced dissatisfaction from authorities when demanding price increases for steel.
Even after officially retiring, Fairless remained actively involved in entrepreneurial endeavors and participated in public life. In September 1956, President Dwight David Eisenhower appointed him as the chairman of a new federal committee responsible for analyzing and developing the country's foreign humanitarian policy.
Benjamin Fairless passed away on January 1, 1962, at the age of 71, from pleurisy.
