Meet Bill Hathaway

Before becoming CEO of a global tech company, Bill Hathaway, a 1985 graduate of Western Carolina University (WCU), was a self-proclaimed “nerd.” After earning his bachelor’s in computer science, he became president of Noregon Systems, a Greensboro-based company known for its vehicle diagnostic software, used by major corporations like Wal-Mart, NAPA, and FedEx.

 

Hathaway credits his success to the practical, hands-on experience he gained at WCU. He learned organization, discipline, technical skills, and the value of lifelong learning. Professors like David Teague and Joseph Klerlein served as key role models during his studies.

 

Hathaway advises current students to develop both technical and soft skills, emphasizing the importance of communication in the workplace. “It doesn’t matter if you have a 4.0 GPA; if you can’t communicate, you won’t get the job,” he said.

 

Using the skills he gained at WCU, Hathaway has expanded Noregon into international markets, including Mexico and South America, while remaining debt-free.