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Ten University Staff members — including physics instrument maker Bill Foster — have been honored with 2025 University Staff Recognition Awards for their contributions to the University of Wisconsin–Madison. The recipients have been recognized by colleagues for teamwork, dedication to excellence, problem-solving abilities and innovative approach to their jobs.

Foster is in his 36th year as an accomplished instrument maker and welder at the Physics Instrument Shop in Chamberlin Hall. He has not only fabricated scientific research equipment, but he has also contributed to many other research departments across the university and beyond. Very particular and detailed in his work, Foster takes the time to thoroughly research projects. Foster is also regarded as a master welder, particularly known for his vacuum and Ultra High Vacuum welding abilities. He’s worked on projects that include vacuum chambers, telescope chambers for testing tissue samples, a plant watering system that went aboard the space shuttle and the South African telescope project.