James H. Thompson Retires from Qualcomm Technologies
- Feb. 04, 2025

Congratulations to James H. Thompson ’85, MS’87, PhD’91 on his retirement as chief technology officer at Qualcomm Technologies.
A proud Badger, Jim has had an extraordinary career, joining Qualcomm in 1992 and playing a pivotal role in advancing wireless technology. Along the way, he has recruited countless UW–Madison electrical and computer engineering (ECE) graduates, helping them launch successful careers.
Beyond his professional impact, Jim has been a dedicated supporter of ECE and UW–Madison, contributing through both service and philanthropy. His generosity includes championing the creation of the James H. Thompson Electronics Design Studio, advocating for Qualcomm’s support of the Qualcomm Design Lab, and establishing multiple professorships in honor of his family.
His leadership and dedication to innovation have left an incredible legacy at Qualcomm and continue on at UW–Madison.
More Alumni Notes
John Kromer MS’10, MA’11 was named a fellow of the Special Libraries Association. At UW–Madison, he earned a master of science in chemistry and a master of arts in library and information studies.
Jeff Maskalunas ’18, MS’20 started ultimate frisbee programing at local Boys & Girls Clubs in the Capital Region, New York, two years ago. He recently won a grant through the USA Ultimate Foundation to continue this volunteer work.
Elmer Clemans Beale, who was a student at UW–Madison passed away on May 7, 2025, in Little Falls, MN due to an accident. He survived a massive stroke in 2021 and spent his remaining years at home enjoying the company of his family and dogs. A cele...
Paula Glocke Spindler ’95 was recently promoted to assistant vice president of brand management at Sentry Insurance in Stevens Point, Wisconsin. Paula received a bachelor’s degree in journalism from the UW.
John Kromer MS’10, MA’11 was named a fellow of the Special Libraries Association. At UW–Madison, he earned a master of science in chemistry and a master of arts in library and information studies.
Jeff Maskalunas ’18, MS’20 started ultimate frisbee programing at local Boys & Girls Clubs in the Capital Region, New York, two years ago. He recently won a grant through the USA Ultimate Foundation to continue this volunteer work.
Elmer Clemans Beale, who was a student at UW–Madison passed away on May 7, 2025, in Little Falls, MN due to an accident. He survived a massive stroke in 2021 and spent his remaining years at home enjoying the company of his family and dogs. A cele...
Paula Glocke Spindler ’95 was recently promoted to assistant vice president of brand management at Sentry Insurance in Stevens Point, Wisconsin. Paula received a bachelor’s degree in journalism from the UW.
John Kromer MS’10, MA’11 was named a fellow of the Special Libraries Association. At UW–Madison, he earned a master of science in chemistry and a master of arts in library and information studies.
Jeff Maskalunas ’18, MS’20 started ultimate frisbee programing at local Boys & Girls Clubs in the Capital Region, New York, two years ago. He recently won a grant through the USA Ultimate Foundation to continue this volunteer work.
Elmer Clemans Beale, who was a student at UW–Madison passed away on May 7, 2025, in Little Falls, MN due to an accident. He survived a massive stroke in 2021 and spent his remaining years at home enjoying the company of his family and dogs. A cele...
Paula Glocke Spindler ’95 was recently promoted to assistant vice president of brand management at Sentry Insurance in Stevens Point, Wisconsin. Paula received a bachelor’s degree in journalism from the UW.