DigiKey CEO Dave Doherty Receives Renowned Alumni Award from WPI

DigiKey CEO Dave Doherty Receives Prestigious Award from Worcester Polytechnic Institute

DigiKey Corporation, a prominent name in the global distribution of electronic components and automation products, proudly announces the recent accolade received by its CEO, Dave Doherty. On October 21, 2025, Dave was honored with the esteemed 2025 Robert H. Goddard Alumni Award for Outstanding Professional Achievement from Worcester Polytechnic Institute (WPI). This award, bestowed annually by WPI, recognizes individuals who have made exceptional contributions in their professional fields, highlighting their impact on society and industry.

In a prestigious ceremony marked by celebration and appreciation, Dave Doherty was presented the award by Dean Kamen, an inventor and entrepreneur, known for founding DEKA Research and the FIRST® robotics community. The event was held at WPI's Honoring Our Champions gathering on September 27, 2025, and was characterized by inspiring speeches that acknowledged the dedication and achievements of alumni who have transcended traditional boundaries in their respective professions.

Arly Dungca, president of the WPI Alumni Association, emphasized the significance of Doherty's accomplishments, stating, "We are proud to present Dave with this award in recognition of his invaluable contributions in the semiconductor manufacturing and electronics distribution sectors. His leadership and commitment to engineering innovation have inspired progress and transformation on a global scale."

Doherty's impressive leadership qualities have been pivotal in elevating DigiKey's prominence in the industry. Dr. Ron Stordahl, the chairman and founder of DigiKey, mentioned the integral role Doherty played in steering the company through turbulent times, while laying a robust foundation for future growth and innovation. "Dave's strategic foresight has been crucial for our success," said Stordahl, reinforcing the bonds shared between DigiKey and WPI in advocating for technological advancement and nurturing the next generation of innovators.

The Robert H. Goddard Alumni Award is named after Dr. Robert H. Goddard, an illustrious WPI alum and a pioneer in rocketry. Each year, WPI's Alumni Association honors a select group from its alumni community who have demonstrated remarkable achievements in their careers, contributing significantly to the university and its values. The accolades reflect the commitment of both WPI and its graduates to fostering innovation and excellence across various fields.

In reflecting on the award, Doherty expressed gratitude for the acknowledgment of his contributions not only at DigiKey but also to the broader electronics industry. He noted that his work transcends merely guiding a corporation; it involves molding an entire industry through visionary leadership.

Holding a bachelor's degree in electrical engineering from WPI and an MBA from Babson College, Doherty joined DigiKey's executive management team in 2008, accumulating over 25 years of experience in the electronics realm. His engagement in shaping future leaders is further exemplified through roles such as his presidency at the Electronic Components Industry Association (ECIA) Education Foundation Board and his significant contributions on various advisory boards, including the School of Professional Selling at Baylor University.

DigiKey, headquartered in Thief River Falls, Minnesota, garners recognition not just as a leading distributor but as a relentless innovator within the electronic components sector. Offering a staggering array of over 16.5 million components from over 3,000 reputable manufacturers, DigiKey stands out for its depth and breadth of products, complemented by unparalleled digital solutions that empower engineers and designers to excel in their fields.

As the applause for Dave Doherty rings in celebration of this distinguished honor, it is clear that his journey is only beginning, as he continues to inspire and lead the way for future innovations in technology and beyond.