Siegel, K. M. (Keeve Milton), 1923-

Ann Arbor, Michigan, physicist, professor of electrical engineering at the University of Michigan.

From the description of Keeve Milton Siegel papers, 1957-1973. (University of Michigan). WorldCat record id: 154302519

Keeve Milton Siegel, known as Kip among his friends, was born in New York City on January 9, 1924. In 1948, Siegel graduated from Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute with a Bachelor of Science in theoretical physics. He went on to receive his master's degree in physics from the school in 1950. After graduating, Siegel married Ruth E. Boerker on June 22, 1951. The couple had two sons Leigh and David.

Also in 1951, Siegel moved to Ann Arbor to begin his first position with the University of Michigan as a research associate at UM Engineering Research Institute. As a research associate, Siegel headed the upper atmosphere research group and UM Radiation Laboratory from 1951-1956. In 1957, Siegel was appointed professor of electric engineering, a post he held until 1967. While a professor at the University, Siegel founded Conductron Corporation in 1960. Under his direction as President of Conductron, the corporation became one the area's largest industries. However, in 1967, the McDonnell-Douglas Corporation purchased Conductron and moved it out of Ann Arbor.

After leaving Conductron Corporation, Siegel founded KMS Industries in 1969. He became known internationally for his inventions in the field of optics. As chairman of KMS, Siegel focused much of his research on the development of laser induced nuclear fusion. Siegel believed passionately in the need to develop nuclear fusion as a clean and renewable source of energy. The research done at KMS on nuclear fusion was the only privately funded venture of its kind in the United States.

Siegel died March 14, 1975.

From the guide to the Keeve Milton Siegel papers, 1953-1983, (Bentley Historical Library, University of Michigan)