William P. Blake

William P. Blake, a native of St. Albans, received the degree of BSChE and Masters of Business Administration in 1964 and 1970, respectively, from West Virginia University.

In the time since graduation, Blake has held numerous positions of increasing responsibility with four major chemical companies. He joined B.F. Goodrich Company Chemical Division in 1964 as production staff engineer. From 1966 1971, he was employed by the Monsanto Company, first as a process engineer and later as a supervisor where he managed the start up and operation of a new organic chemical synthesis unit. Between 1971 and 1976, he honed his marketing and sales skills while progressing to the level of area manager with Betz Laboratories, Inc.

In 1977, Blake joined Great Lakes Chemical Corporation where he has played a key role in the company's eight-fold increase in earnings over the past decade alone. From his original position as market development manager, flame retardants, he has held numerous subsequent assignments, culminating in his being named vice president, flame retardants and specialties in 1984. He also oversees the company's subsidiary, Hydrotech Chemical Corporation, a leading producer and marketer of chemicals and equipment for the consumer swimming market worldwide.

Blake is a registered Professional Engineer in the state of West Virginia, a member of Phi Sigma Kappa, American Institute of Chemical Engineers and American Society of the Chemical Industry. He married the former Jane Sharpe, also of St. Albans, and they have three children: Beth, Thomas and Jennifer.