Frank J. Sprague

1857–1934 (age 77)

Engineer/Inventor

Biography

Engineer Frank J. Sprague devoted his life to solving practical problems in electricity, improving the design of motors, elevators, and electric railway systems. His innovations enabled more efficient and reliable urban transit and building operations across the nation.

Sprague’s systems helped cities embrace electrification, and his work laid foundational principles for mass transportation and automated control that continue to influence engineers today.