Col. A.W. (Bill) Courchesne ’65
Col. A.W. (Bill) Courchesne, Peterborough, NH, died July 31, 2024.
A distinguished military officer and accomplished computer programmer, Bill had deep commitment to service, scholarship, and technological innovation throughout his life.
Born in Manchester, NH, Bill graduated from Bishop Bradley High School there in 1961 before earning his economics bachelor’s at Saint Michael’s along with an Air Force ROTC commission as a second lieutenant. Later, he received a master’s from Suffolk University in Boston and also attained an MBA from Babson College.
Bill’s illustrious career spanned several decades, marked by remarkable achievements and dedicated service to his country. He devoted his entire active-duty tenure as a computer programmer, systems analyst, and systems design engineer at Hancock Field, where he also served as assistant to the chief of operational program maintenance. In 1971, he assumed the IMA position at the New Hampshire Satellite tracking station, a role he held for 19 years, during which he rose through the ranks from captain to colonel.
His military service was further distinguished by his leadership as the commander of AFSC (Air Force Specialty Code) and as an adjunct professor at the Air War College (AWC), where he pioneered courses on automation and computer systems. Bill’s contributions were recognized with numerous awards and decorations, a testament to his exemplary dedication and expertise in the field.
Beyond his military commitments, Bill’s passion for technology and education led him to civilian roles of significance. He worked as the first director of data processing at Suffolk University in Boston and later transitioned to positions such as professor of computer science, director of academic computing, and professor of computer IT systems before his retirement. Additionally, he served as the CEO of AWC Associates Inc., a renowned computer consulting firm, where he continued to make influential contributions to the field.
No information about survivors was available.