The article examines the activities of the outstanding scientist and organizer of the second half of the 19th – beginning of the 20th century, Viktor Lvovich Kirpychov, who was noted for his significant role in the development of higher technical education in Ukraine. As the founder and first director of Kharkiv Practical Technological Institute (KhPTI) and Kyiv Polytechnic Institute (KPI), V. L. Kirpychov defined the main principles of engineering education, which became a base of the long history of these leading higher educational institutions of Ukraine.

The article focuses on the «Kyiv period» of the scientist's activity and his strategy for the formation of the KPI teaching staff to ensure a high level of education quality. His approaches to the selection of teachers are studied (especially in the context of applied sciences). It is noted that he recommended attracting the best specialists to teach fundamental subjects, while considered the teachers of applied sciences to be the goal of training on his own.

The article analyzes Kirpychov's rapid success in forming a highly qualified teaching staff. His interaction with professors of Kyiv University to ensure a high level of education at the initial stage of KPI activity is being investigated. The implementation of practical classes in the educational process and innovative approaches in the selection of candidates for vacant teaching positions are also considered. The effectiveness of the scientist in this process is highlighted, emphasizing the judicious use of experience in organizational work and the ability to recognize and develop talented young scientists.

Described the principled position of V. L. Kirpychev regarding student riots and his refusal from forceful methods of influencing it. Particular attention is paid to his opposition to the decisions of the Ministry of Education and the Ministry of Internal Affairs, which led to the dismissal of the scientist from the position of director.

It is specified that precisely for the contribution to the development of Kyiv Polytechnic V. L. Kirpychov was elected the first honorary member of the Kyiv Polytechnic Society of Engineers and Agronomists. It is noted that the continuity of Kirpychov's ideas was led to the creation of the foundation named after V. L. Kirpychov and publishing a collection of materials dedicated to him.

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