An inventor is simply a fellow who doesn't take his education too seriously

An inventor is simply a fellow who doesn't take his education too seriously

Charles Kettering, an American inventor, engineer, and businessman, is often credited with the quote, "An inventor is simply a fellow who doesn't take his education too seriously." This statement encapsulates Kettering's belief that innovation and creativity are not bound by traditional education or formal training. Instead, he believed that true inventors are those who think outside the box, challenge the status quo, and are willing to take risks in pursuit of their ideas.

Kettering himself was a prime example of this philosophy. Born in 1876 in Ohio, Kettering did not have a formal education in engineering or science. Instead, he was largely self-taught, learning through hands-on experience and experimentation. This unconventional approach to learning allowed Kettering to develop a unique perspective and innovative ideas that would later revolutionize the automotive industry.

One of Kettering's most notable inventions was the electric starter for automobiles, which he developed while working for the Dayton Engineering Laboratories Company (DELCO) in the early 1900s. Prior to Kettering's invention, starting a car required a hand crank, which was not only difficult and dangerous but also limited the accessibility of automobiles to a wider population. Kettering's electric starter not only made starting a car safer and easier but also paved the way for the widespread adoption of automobiles.

Kettering's success as an inventor was not solely due to his technical skills but also his ability to think creatively and problem-solve. He was known for his willingness to take risks, experiment with new ideas, and challenge conventional wisdom. Kettering's approach to innovation was rooted in curiosity, persistence, and a willingness to learn from failure.