William H. "Bill" Shaw

William Harold "Bill" Shaw (June 9, 1926 – August 20, 2006) was a pioneering American naval architect renowned for his influential role in the transition to fiberglass sailboat construction, particularly as the chief designer and later general manager of Pearson Yachts from 1964 to 1991. Over his 40-year career, Shaw designed more than 50 sailboats and powerboats, emphasizing safe, family-oriented racer-cruisers that combined seaworthiness, performance, and affordability—revolutionizing the industry during the post-WWII boating boom. His conservative yet innovative approach prioritized reliability over radical experimentation, earning him accolades as a "master of the practical yacht" and leaving a legacy of thousands of durable vessels still in use today.