Ralph D. Parker

Ralph D. Parker (1898-1983) worked in the Canadian mining industry. In 1921, he obtained a B. Sc. degree from the University of California. Parker became a superintendent of mines at Inco beginning in 1931. He rose through the company and became senior vice-president. In 1963, he retired and was awarded, as the first recipient, the Chairman's Citation. Scientists under his direction developed the aerial magnetometer, a device used by the military to locate submarines. He was inducted into the Canadian Mining Hall of Fame and R. D. Parker Collegiate a high school in Thompson, Manitoba is named in his honour.