-
Birth
He was born in Central Bridge, New York. He was the eighth child out of ten. -
Childhood
He spent most of his youth in his father's workshop, learning machining, casting, and mechanical problem-solving. At 15, he joined the 12th Regiment of the New York National Guard and later the 16th Regiment of the New York Cavalry. -
Career
In his career, Westinghouse had over 60 companies, including the Westinghouse Air Brake Company and Union Switch Signal, and held over 360 patents. His enterprise included railroads, electrical power, and early natural gas industry -
First invention
After dropping out of Union college, he went back to his father's workshop to work. At the age of 19, he received his first patent for the rotary steam engine. -
First major company ( Westinghouse Air Brake Company)
This company was established to manufacture and commercialize his revolutionary invention: the air brake for railroads. The major impact of this company was how it revolutionized railroad safety and operations in the United States and abroad -
How he treated his workers
Westinghouse maintained mutual respect with employees, earning the nickname "the Old Man." He avoided strikes by offering higher wages and better conditions. He also opposed unions, so he hire replacements during the 1903 strike. -
Company value
His combined companies were worth $120 million (equivalent to several billion today), this represents corporate value rather than personal net worth. -
Westinghouse's famous quote
“If someday they say of me that in my work I have contributed something to the welfare and happiness of my fellow man, I shall be satisfied.”
This shows his lifelong drive to prioritize societal progress over personal gain -
How he spent his money
Westinghouse's spending reflected his passions for innovation and business expansion. Westinghouse expanded his industrial empire, establishing 15 manufacturing companies across the U.S., Canada, and Europe. He also used most of his money paying his workers more than industry standards. -
George Westinghouse peak net worth
At his death in 1914, his estate was valued at $50 million, which is approximately $1.2 billion today. -
Connection to modern figure
Westinghouse’s innovative spirit and business model are often compared to figures like Elon Musk and Bill Gates. Like Musk, Westinghouse combined engineering genius with risk-taking, founding dozens of companies that pushed the boundaries of technology in energy, transportation, and infrastructure. -
Captain of Industry
Westinghouse earned the title of "captain of industry" through his innovative inventions, ethical business practices, and lasting industrial influence. Through his inventions like the railroad air brakes and automated signaling systems revolutionized how the world is today. -
Death
George Westinghouse died of heart failure in New York City. In the final years of his life, his health had declined significantly, and he was confined to a wheelchair due to a weakened heart