Richard K. Vitek, a 1958 chemistry graduate, began his career as a research chemist producing uranium from ore, before moving on to work as a scientist, director and startup CEO. His accomplishments include working with the U.S. Coast Guard to develop UV imaging instruments that analyze oil spills to identify the tankers responsible and develop a method of testing arsenic levels in wine that led the Environmental Protection Agency to impose stricter limits on pesticide use in U.S. vineyards.

Share This Story

Spark a Memory?

Share your story! Fill out the form below to share your fondest memory or anecdote of S&T. If you'd prefer not typing, you can also share by phone at 833-646-3715 (833-Miner150).

Stonehenge, ‘tis a magic place…’

Stonehenge, ‘tis a magic place…’

When the band Spinal Tap sang of Stonehenge as a “magic place … where the moon doth rise with a…

Gwen (Ingram) and Chase Davis

Gwen (Ingram) and Chase Davis

Gwen (Ingram) and Chase Davis, who both earned their bachelor’s degree in ceramic engineering from S&T, met after participating in…

First woman department chair

First woman department chair

In 1990, Dr. Elizabeth Cummins was named chair of Missouri S&T’s English department. She joined S&T as an instructor in…

Behind every weather forecast

Behind every weather forecast

The next time you’re watching the Weather Channel, you might want to thank S&T alumnus Harry Smith for equipping today’s…

One active alumnus

One active alumnus

James E. “Jim” Bertelsmeyer, a 1966 chemical engineering graduate and the retired founder, chair and chief executive officer of Heritage…

Gregory McClain: education’s key to success

Gregory McClain: education’s key to success

Gregory McClain, who graduated in 1972 with a bachelor’s degree in engineering management and...