Inducted
2023
Degrees
Richard (Rich) Stemple was born in Cleveland, Ohio in 1958 to Thomas (deceased) and Margaret Stemple. The family moved back to Vienna, West Virginia where Rich grew up and lived until graduating from WVU with a BSChE degree in 1981. Since graduation, Rich has dedicated his entire 42 year career to the textile industry starting with Burlington Industries, once one of the largest textile companies in the world. After various roles and companies in engineering, R&D, manufacturing and sales management, he received the opportunity as COO of textile company Royal American in 2005, which he held for a number of years. Since, Rich has managed manufacturing and sales businesses focusing on automotive, military, industrial and medical markets. Most recently as Global Sales and Marketing Director for Negastat®, a PPE product introduced into fabric form for static control and pain management. Because of his extensive background in all phases of textile production, he continues to work as a consultant, currently with Miller Waste Mills, who is deeply involved in the circularity movement with the goal to greatly reduce or minimize textile waste going to landfills.
Rich is married to his wife Cheryl of 36 years and they have three adult daughters, Chelsea, Madison and Darby. Rich continues to enjoy many hobbies and activities including WVU sporting events and stays involved in church music programs as a vocal soloist, trumpet and bass guitar player.