James R. Williamson ('82, Electronics Engineering)

James R. Williamson

Vice President, Technology Standards (Ret.), Sony Electronics

Member of Iggy and The Stooges

BS Electronics Engineering, Cal Poly Pomona, 1982

James R. Williamson joined the band Iggy and The Stooges after graduating from high school. The band moved to London and, in 1972, recorded the album “Raw Power,” which was entirely co-written by James and Iggy Pop. Three years later, the band broke up, which led James to reevaluate his career options and enroll at Cal Poly Pomona.

After earning his bachelor’s degree, James joined semiconductor manufacturer Advanced Micro Devices. In 1997, Williamson was hired as director of applications at Sony Semiconductor of America and then was asked to head up a newly formed Office of Technology Standards for The Americas. James retired from Sony as vice president of technology standards in 2009. That year, he rejoined Iggy and The Stooges and embarked with the band on a world tour. The band was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2010.

“In 20 years, you’ll look back and only regret the passions that you didn’t pursue,” James advises engineering students.