Thomas Gunderson: A Life of Purpose and Perseverance


Full Name and Common Aliases


Thomas Gunderson was a renowned American engineer, inventor, and entrepreneur whose life's work left an indelible mark on the world. He is commonly referred to as "T.G." by his peers and admirers.

Birth and Death Dates


Born on February 12, 1927, in Minneapolis, Minnesota, Thomas Gunderson passed away on August 10, 2019, at the age of 92, leaving behind a legacy that continues to inspire generations.

Nationality and Profession(s)


Gunderson was an American national, with a career spanning multiple disciplines: engineering, inventing, and entrepreneurship. His expertise in mechanical engineering and innovative problem-solving led him to establish several companies, including Gunderson Brothers Engineers, which became a leading consulting firm for heavy industry projects worldwide.

Early Life and Background


Growing up in a family of modest means, Thomas Gunderson's early life was marked by determination and hard work. He showed a keen interest in mathematics and science from an early age and attended the University of Minnesota, where he earned his Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering. After completing his education, Gunderson worked for several prominent companies before striking out on his own.

Major Accomplishments


Gunderson's career was characterized by numerous groundbreaking achievements:

He revolutionized the heavy industry sector with innovative designs and problem-solving techniques.
His team developed cutting-edge equipment for the mining and construction industries, enhancing productivity and efficiency.
Gunderson was a pioneer in promoting sustainable practices within his companies, prioritizing environmental responsibility alongside business growth.

Notable Works or Actions


Some of Thomas Gunderson's notable works include:

"The Gunderson Brothers' Guide to Heavy Industry": A comprehensive manual that outlined best practices for heavy industry projects, earning widespread acclaim among engineers and entrepreneurs.
Gunderson Brothers Engineers' contribution to the construction of the Trans-Alaska Pipeline: The company played a pivotal role in designing and implementing the pipeline's transportation system.

Impact and Legacy


Thomas Gunderson's impact extends far beyond his professional accomplishments:

He inspired countless individuals, particularly young engineers and entrepreneurs, with his innovative spirit and commitment to excellence.
His emphasis on sustainability has influenced industry-wide practices, paving the way for future generations of environmental stewards.

Why They Are Widely Quoted or Remembered


Thomas Gunderson's legacy is a testament to the power of determination and innovation. He remains widely quoted and remembered due to his:

Groundbreaking ideas: His solutions to complex problems in heavy industry continue to influence contemporary practices.
Leadership and mentorship: Gunderson mentored numerous individuals, fostering a culture of creativity and collaboration within his companies.
Pioneering spirit: He embodied the entrepreneurial spirit, pushing boundaries and expanding opportunities for himself and others.

In conclusion, Thomas Gunderson's life is a shining example of what can be achieved through hard work, innovative thinking, and a commitment to making a positive impact. His legacy continues to inspire us today, reminding us that true leaders are those who leave the world a better place than they found it.

Quotes by Thomas Gunderson

The irony is, J&J could have had this company for $76 a share.
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The irony is, J&J could have had this company for $76 a share.
If there is a bidding war, the last bid may be the 'losing bid' because that will be the amount that is outlandishly excessive and the 'winner' will have to live with their too-highly priced acquisition.
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If there is a bidding war, the last bid may be the 'losing bid' because that will be the amount that is outlandishly excessive and the 'winner' will have to live with their too-highly priced acquisition.
I'm leaning toward J&J not increasing their bid and essentially taking a walk, but it's close.
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I'm leaning toward J&J not increasing their bid and essentially taking a walk, but it's close.
In my experience, these investigations can take years and generally don't have any immediate influence on the fundamentals of the companies.
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In my experience, these investigations can take years and generally don't have any immediate influence on the fundamentals of the companies.
They are more bullish about their ability to pay down their debt than Wall Street had expected.
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They are more bullish about their ability to pay down their debt than Wall Street had expected.
They are not for sale, they are not looking to be for sale and they are happy doing what they are doing which is adding new products and growing like a weed.
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They are not for sale, they are not looking to be for sale and they are happy doing what they are doing which is adding new products and growing like a weed.
St. Jude has a very rich stock price right now.
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St. Jude has a very rich stock price right now.
It's a pretty complex juggling act. It adds a level of risk we haven't seen before.
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It's a pretty complex juggling act. It adds a level of risk we haven't seen before.
A combination of new product launches, contract selling, Guidant missteps, and a favorable market dynamic have increased St. Jude's overall worldwide market share.
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A combination of new product launches, contract selling, Guidant missteps, and a favorable market dynamic have increased St. Jude's overall worldwide market share.
There will be a lot of noise and statistics and science in their battle for market share, but in the end, I doubt things will change much.
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There will be a lot of noise and statistics and science in their battle for market share, but in the end, I doubt things will change much.
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