William MacCorkle began his career by establishing a law practice and teaching in Charleston, West Virginia. He served as the Kanawha County prosecuting attorney, gaining significant legal experience. MacCorkle transitioned into politics, advocating for increased state funding, improved infrastructure, and industrial development. He held a contentious stance against labor movements, deploying the state militia to suppress a coal miners' strike. MacCorkle's legacy includes his advocacy for African American rights and his contributions to West Virginia's development.

William MacCorkle's political identity is marked by a juxtaposition of progressive economic strategies with conservative social stances. He championed increased funding for state institutions and promoted West Virginia's natural resources to attract industry, yet he staunchly opposed the labor movement among coal miners, deploying the state militia to break strikes. MacCorkle's address at the Southern Conference On Race Problems reveals an unexpected advocacy for African American rights, contrasting sharply with his labor policies. This conceptual tension between economic modernization and social conservatism makes MacCorkle's approach both intriguing and complex.