Our "Guru of the Month" is Malcolm Baldrige.
Baldrige was born in Omaha, Nebraska and
went on to graduate from Yale University with a bachelor's degree in
1944.
In 1947, Baldrige began his career in the
manufacturing industry at a Connecticut iron company. By 1960,
Baldrige served as president of that company. Baldrige also served
in combat in the Pacific as Captain in the 27th Infantry Division
during World War II.
On December 11, 1980, Malcolm Baldrige was
nominated to be Secretary of Commerce by President Ronald Reagan.
Baldrige played a major role in developing and carrying out
Administration trade policy. Baldrige was highly regarded by the
world's most pre-eminent leaders. Baldrige served as Secretary of
Commerce from his U.S. Senate confirmation in 1981 until his tragic
death in a rodeo accident 1987.
Throughout his tenure, Baldrige lead the Administration's effort to
pass the Export Trading Company Act of 1982, was named by the
President to chair a Cabinet-level Trade Strike Force, was the
leader in the reform of the Nation's antitrust laws.
In honor of Baldrige’s managerial excellence, and
contribution to long-term improvements in the economy, efficiency,
and effectiveness in government, The Malcolm Baldrige National
Quality Award was established. The award recognizes U.S.
organizations for their achievements in quality and performance and
to raise awareness about the importance of quality and performance
excellence as a competitive edge.
"The economic liberty and strong competition that
are indispensable to economic progress were principals that "Mac"
Baldridge stressed…"
~ President Ronald Reagan
