Last Updated: 07/08/2026 | All information is accurate and still up-to-date

Industrial engineers solve problems. They improve systems, create opportunities and strengthen communities. Few people demonstrate that better than Edward P. Fitts.

Throughout his life, Fitts applied the same way of thinking to every challenge. First, he built one of the world’s leading packaging companies. Next, he invested in the future of industrial engineering at NC State. Today, he is helping transform his hometown of Littleton, North Carolina.

His story shows that industrial engineering is more than a career. Instead, it is a lifelong commitment to making the world better through innovation, leadership and service.

Building a Global Company

Fitts earned his bachelor’s degree in industrial engineering from NC State in 1961. He often credited his education with giving him the skills and confidence to succeed. As a result, the lessons he learned in the classroom guided every stage of his career.

After graduation, Fitts entered the packaging industry and quickly became known for his leadership. Then, in 1979, he acquired part of Sonoco’s paperboard packaging business and founded Dopaco. Through smart planning, continuous improvement and a commitment to quality, he transformed the company into the world’s leading manufacturer of fast-food packaging.

By the time he sold Dopaco in 2004, it had become a global industry leader. However, Fitts viewed that achievement as another beginning rather than the end of his story.

Investing in Future Engineers

After building a successful company, Fitts asked a different question. How could he help future engineers build successful careers?

His answer was NC State.

In 2005, Fitts made a landmark $10 million gift to create the Edward P. Fitts Department of Industrial and Systems Engineering. The gift established the first named academic department in NC State’s history. More importantly, it reflected his belief that investing in students creates opportunities that last for generations.

Since then, Ed and Deb have continued supporting the department through scholarships, graduate fellowships, endowed professorships and Fitts-Woolard Hall. Consequently, their generosity helps recruit talented students from around the world, advances groundbreaking research and gives faculty the resources to educate future engineering leaders.

Every day, students benefit from the opportunities the Fittses have created. Likewise, faculty continue discovering new ways to solve today’s most complex challenges. Their investments ensure the department remains a leader in industrial engineering education and research.

Bringing a Town Back to Life

Many people leave their hometown and never return. Ed Fitts chose a different path.

Instead of walking away from Littleton, North Carolina, he and Deb began investing in its future. Like many rural communities, Littleton faced empty storefronts, declining population and limited economic opportunity. However, the Fittses saw possibility where others saw challenges.

They restored historic downtown buildings and opened businesses that attract residents and visitors. Their investments include Daphne’s Coffee Shop, Main Street Wines and the Blue Jay Bistro. In addition, they helped provide free gigabit wireless internet throughout downtown, creating new opportunities for businesses and the community.

Their vision reaches far beyond restoring buildings. They have also invested in housing, public gathering spaces, arts programs and community events. As a result, Littleton has become a model for rural revitalization.

Perhaps their most meaningful investment is Littleton Academy. Located in Ed’s former high school, the academy prepares local students for future success through innovative educational opportunities. Once again, the Fittses chose to invest in people because they believe lasting change begins with education.

The Same Engineer. Three Transformations.

Ed Fitts transformed three very different things during his lifetime. First, he built a global manufacturing company. Next, he strengthened the future of industrial engineering through NC State. Today, he continues helping transform an entire community.

Those accomplishments share a common thread. Fitts approached every challenge as an industrial engineer by improving systems, investing in people and creating lasting value.

That mindset defines the Edward P. Fitts Department of Industrial and Systems Engineering. Every student who walks through its doors carries forward the example Ed and Deb have set. Their story reminds us that the greatest measure of success is not simply what you build. Instead, it is the lives you improve and the legacy you leave behind.