William Yeakel

Born in Frankfurt, Germany, in 1949, Bill Yeakel’s life has been shaped by rich cultural experiences, professional accomplishments, and a passion for learning. Fluent in German, French, and English, at an early age, he grew up across France, Germany, and the U.S., fostering a deep appreciation for language and culture.

After graduating from Frankfurt American High School in 1967, Bill earned a scholarship to Gettysburg College, where his studies focused on German and Philosophy. Following graduation, and a brief Army stint during the Vietnam War, he became a professional Scouter with the Boy Scouts of America, a challenging role that honed his leadership and organizational skills.

When he was hired by Lukens Steel Company, they encouraged him to pursue a technical degree which led to studying Metallurgical Engineering at Drexel University.

After a move back to Maryland, he earned another bachelor’s degree from Towson University, this one in mathematics. By chance, he became known to researchers working at the U.S. Army Ballistic Research Laboratory who recruited him. Transferring to BRL’s sister organization, AMSAA, led to hi success in operations research and statistical analysis. The Army gave him further academic opportunities which allowed him to pursue advanced degrees in Statistics and Operations Research from the University of Delaware. His academic achievements and technical merit translated into proving analytical leadership to major defense projects like the Abrams tank program and Future Combat Systems.

The events of 9-11 prompted Bill to seek a broader way to both find solutions and influence policy across government agencies. His employment within the Department of the Army made that impossible, so he resigned and started ORSA Corporation.

The company’s reputation for quality technical work led to his being invited to serve on the prestigious Army Science Board where his reputation and commitment resulted in his leading key ASB studies on behalf of the Secretary of the Army.

In retirement, Bill has pursued creative endeavors, publishing A Chesapeake Nightmare and writing a book on Linear Algebra. A committed volunteer, he has served as Rotary District Treasurer, Boy Scout District Chairman, and supported the arts alongside his wife, Irene, through the Baltimore Symphony Orchestra.

Bill and Irene, married for over 40 years, reside in Aberdeen, Maryland. Irene, a Harford County native, is a respected piano teacher. They share a love of family, with a son, daughter-in-law, and two grandchildren, Lawson and Eliza, in Denver. Bill’s hobbies include building a flight simulator, designing electronics experiments for his grandchildren, and expanding his knowledge through reading and writing.

His blog commentary and poetry can be read on the yeakelbooks website.

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For more about Bill Yeakel, his works, and his adventures, stay connected through his author page.