Dr. Wilfrid C. Polkinghorne was born in 1891 in Manistique, Michigan. Following his graduation from the Michigan College of Mines in 1914, he was employed by the Ahmeek Mining Company as a draftsman and engineer, and later as assistant superintendent of the Stamp Mill. In 1921 he joined the Mechanical Engineering faculty at Michigan Tech. As an assistant professor, he joined the combined departments of Civil and Mining Engineering in 1931, following the completion of his M.S. degree in civil engineering at Yale University. In 1945, the departments were separated, and under his leadership, the Civil Engineering department grew to one of the largest on campus, and one of the most recognized departments of highway engineers in the nation.

In 1963, Michigan Tech honored him with the Doctor of Engineering Degree. The American Society of Civil Engineers also honored him with its Life Membership award. In 1972 he received the distinguished alumnus award at Michigan Technological University. Dr. Polkinghorne, Professor Emeritus, passed away in 1977.