A 1942 graduate of Valley City State Teacher College, Ralph Carlson earned a B.A. degree with majors in chemistry and mathematics. He was listed in Who's Who in American Colleges and Universities in 1941 and 1942. While attending VCSC, he was active in the Hespies Fraternity, Lettermen's Club basketball, (All-Conference in 1941) and football. He was also selected as a Viking Pilot in 1941 and 1942. Book Three of the 1942 Viking Annual was dedicated to Mr. Carlson. After graduation, he worked for E.I. DuPont Company as a chemist until he entered military service with the U.S. Army in 1943. Subsequently he joined American Cast Iron Pipe Company, Birmingham, in 1946. He has held various positions with Acipco and currently is melting superintendent. Mr. Carlson was presented the John A. Penton Gold Medal for his effective leadership in AFS Committee work, and his substantial contributions to the advancement of the foundry industry, particularly in the fields of iron melting and molten metal treatment. In addition to this membership is AFS, he as served as a chapter chairman of the American Society for Metals, and was president of the Acipco Supervisors Club. He is a member of the National Management Association and the American Ordinance Association. He is the author of nearly 30 papers and other presentations to industry audiences. He also has served as an instructor for the Cast Metals Institute.