- BS Electrical Engineering 1956
Robert Hirvela joined the HF Communications Division of Collins Radio Company in 1959 as a project engineer. In 1973, he led the Rockwell business unit that invented and developed the first Digital Automatic Call Distributor, the Rockwell Galaxy ACD, and launched what is known today as the Call Center Industry. In 1978, he transferred to the Air Transport Division of Rockwell as Director of Product Management with responsibility for Communications, Navigation, and Pulse Products for the Boeing 757 and 767 aircraft. Since 1983 he has served as Vice President and General Manager of the Collins General Aviation Division of Rockwell International.