From his early years, Bill Linton, President and CEO, Promega Corporation, had an interest in nature, science and business. His curiosity led him to undertake studies that explored science and the applications of technology in the life sciences through biology, chemistry, and molecular biology. In parallel with the founding and growth of Promega Corporation based in Fitchburg, Wisconsin, Bill held an interest in the way business can support the community through the establishment of three nonprofit enterprises, the first beginning in 1991. One of the next challenges in understanding and supporting humanity is the study of the mechanisms of mind-brain function. This presentation will trace these interests and the evolution of institutions that support such endeavors.

William A. Linton – Biography
Bill Linton founded Promega in 1978 and has served continuously as President and Chief Executive Officer. A global life science research company, Promega employs over 1,400 worldwide. The company continues to be privately held with revenues approaching US $400 million annually.

Promega provides innovative solutions and technical support to life scientists in academic, industrial and government settings. Its portfolio contains over 3,500 products covering techniques including genomics, protein analysis and expression, cellular analysis, and integrated solutions that combine instrumentation hardware, software and consumables.

These life science tools are used by scientists and technicians researching fundamental questions about biological processes or applying these scientific products and processes in several markets including human therapeutics, diagnostics, human identity, agriculture, and environmental testing among others.

Promega has branch offices located in 16 countries managed by a local team in each region, and 55 distributors.  Altogether, the network of branches and distributors serves scientists in more than 100 countries.

Appreciating that growth and innovation at Promega begins in the hearts of the people in and around the company, Bill has worked with expert advisors over the years to provide meaningful support to employees, collaborators and the local communities in each region. The company offers employees significant support with wellness practices, creative work spaces and most importantly, the opportunity for each individual to make a difference with his or her unique contribution to the company.

Externally, under Bill’s leadership Promega has established and developed two non-profits that have proven valuable to the community. Beginning in 1991 these 501(c)(3) institutions include Woods Hollow Children’s Center (WHCC) which offers infant through pre-school childcare and the BioPharmaceutical Technology Center Institute (BTC Institute) which provides community education in biotechnology. With Bill’s guidance, Promega provides unique forms of community support that include offering meeting space to outside organizations, quarterly art exhibits and annual scientific symposia. Separately, Bill has also established Usona Institute a medical non-profit research organization with international collaborations.

Bill has served as director or advisor for numerous industry, government, and community organizations. He currently serves as director for the following entities: Bruker Biosciences, ALDA (Analytical Life Science and Diagnostics Association), BioPharmaceutical Technology Center Institute (BTC Institute), Heffter Research Institute, and Usona Institute.

Bill received a Bachelor of Science degree in Biological Sciences from the University of California, Berkeley in 1970 and conducted post-graduate work in Pharmaceutical Chemistry at the University of Wisconsin-Madison from 1973 to 1976. He holds honorary doctorate degrees from Hannam University, Daejon, South Korea (2005) and the University of Wisconsin-Madison (2015).