William Ripper CH was a mechanical engineer and professor. Ripper started as a dockyard apprentice, and went on to become a science teacher in the Central Higher School of Sheffield. He published two noted books on steam and steam engines, which led to appointment as professor of mechanical engineering at Sheffield Technical School (STS) in 1889. He later became the principal of STS. When STS merged with other institutions to form the University of Sheffield, Ripper became acting vice-chancellor of the university from 1917 to 1919. He was involved heavily in the creation of local 'trades technical societies' which promoted good technical practice and worker education. He retired in 1923.