LeTourneau University: A Legacy of Engineering Excellence and Christian Leadership
LeTourneau University (LETU), founded in 1946 by R.G. and Evelyn LeTourneau, has established itself as a premier Christian polytechnic university, nurturing students to develop competency, ingenuity, and a strong integration of faith and work. While the university offers a diverse range of undergraduate and graduate programs, its engineering and engineering technology disciplines have consistently produced graduates who achieve remarkable success and leadership in their respective fields. This is perhaps most vividly illustrated by the inaugural class inducted into the Academy of Engineering and Engineering Technology in April 2018, a testament to the caliber of professionals LETU has cultivated over decades.
Honoring Engineering Prowess: The Academy of Engineering and Engineering Technology
The establishment of the Academy of Engineering and Engineering Technology by LeTourneau University in April 2018 marked a significant milestone, recognizing the outstanding achievements of its engineering alumni. The inaugural class comprised over 30 distinguished individuals, each having graduated at least 20 years prior to their induction. This criterion ensures that inductees have not only achieved academic excellence but have also demonstrated sustained leadership and made substantial contributions to their disciplines and industries. As Dr. Steven K. Starrett, LETU Dean of Engineering, stated, "LETU is proud of the many exceptional career achievements of its engineering alumni who have clearly used their God-given gifts in an exemplary fashion since graduating from LeTourneau."
The purpose of the Academy is to celebrate alumni who bring honor to the LETU School of Engineering and Engineering Technology. These individuals serve as exemplary practitioners, researchers, missionaries, educators, and leaders. "The purpose of the Academy of Engineering and Engineering Technology is to recognize outstanding alumni who bring honor to the LETU School of Engineering and Engineering Technology as engineering practitioners, researchers, missionaries, educators and leaders," explained Dr. Starrett. He further emphasized the university's gratitude for their talents and abilities, expressing hope that their lives and accomplishments will inspire future generations of LETU engineers. "We give God glory for their tremendous talents and abilities, and we hope their lives and accomplishments will inspire future generations of LETU engineers."
The rigorous selection process for the Academy underscores the high standards set by the university. Each active member must hold a degree in Engineering or Engineering Technology from LeTourneau University, granted at least 20 years prior to election, and meet specific leadership and achievement requirements. This ensures that the recognized alumni represent the pinnacle of success and embody the university's core values.
A Pantheon of Engineering Leaders
The inaugural class of the Academy of Engineering and Engineering Technology features a remarkable array of talent, showcasing the breadth of impact LeTourneau engineering alumni have had across various sectors. Among those honored are:
Read also: LeTourneau University Costs
- Mike Iverson (WT 1996)
- Paul Kelsey (MT 1966)
- Lynn Showalter (MT, WT 1984)
- Ron Bartnick (ME 1985)
- Dave Berge (WT 1985)
- Bob Campbell, Jr. (MT 1975)
- Jay Copen (EE 1987)
- Philip Dean (EE, CSE 2001)
- Mark Gunderson (EE 1988)
- Jeffrey Hamilton (ME 2001)
- Cork Loken (ET 1964)
- Todd Niemann (WE 1987)
- Jim Rosser (IE 1964)
- Fred Steudler, Jr. (IE 1964)
- David Vroom (ME, AE 1969)
- Joel Armstrong (IM, WT 1996)
- Stephen Biggs (ET 1978)
- Ruth (Bradfield) Heckler (BSME 1991)
- Brad Shaw, Sr. (WT 1978)
- Jon Arrowsmith (WE 1978)
- Joseph Beckham (WE 1992)
- Dr. Ken Chin (ME 1971)
- George Dunham (ET 1989)
- David Eby (ME 1971)
- Brad Erickstad (ME 1981)
- Jeter Farlow (MT 1963)
- Dr. Bryan Johnson (EE 1996)
- Scott Patterson (MT 1989, ATBS 1991)
- Nathan Rommel (ME 1999)
- Sam Skielnik, III (ME 1987)
- Bob Sturm (ME 1983)
- Dale Tempco (WT 1980)
- James Walker (ME, ATBS 1981)
- Steve Dudden (ME 1990)
- Curt Fitchett (ETAT, ETMT 1997)
- Bill Garfield (WE 1981)
- Dr. Mike Johnson (EE, CSE 1990)
- Tim Morscheck (ME, AE 1971)
- Peter Pletcher (ME 1995)
- Norman Reese (ME 1991)
- Doug Roszhart (ME 1984)
- Scott Shaver (WE 1980)
- Mike Shepherd (ET 1997)
- Dr. Dennis Tweten (ME 1999)
- Scott Warren (EE 1998)
- Keith Anderson (ET, ATBS 1983)
- Jim Berge (WE 1985)
- Anver Classens (WT 1978)
- Dan DiFrancesco (ME 1982)
- DeWayne Egle (WT 1974)
- Daniel Harding (EE 1992)
- Jeff Johnson (MT 1994)
- Darwin Kauffman (ET 1983)
- Bobby Milhauser (EE 1996)
- Jim Minton, Jr. (MT, WE 1971)
- Jim Nolt, Jr. (WE 1974)
- Murrey Rabenhorst (EE, MBA 1991)
- Robert "Alabama" Shepherd (WE 1968)
- Bill Slothower (MES 1957)
- Bob Walker (ME 1969)
- Owen Watkins (MT, ME 1997)
- Kent "Tennessee" Wilson (WE 1966)
- Donald Bell (MT, WT 1984)
- Douglas Briton (EE 1992)
- Phil Burks (ET 1974)
- Richard Campbell (ME, WE 1978)
- Titus Crabb (EE 1993)
- Stanley Gingrich (WT 1984)
- Dale Hill (WE 1969)
- Dr. Joel Huegel (MT, DT 1993)
- Femi Ibitayo (ET 1986)
- Dr. Michael Kessler (ME 1996)
- David Landon (WE 1981)
- Tom Landon (WE 1975)
- Bud McGuire (IE 1966)
- Wayne Meece (ME, WE 1958)
- Duane Miller (ME, WE 1978)
- Joe Nowiczewski (ME 1970)
- Dean Phillips (WE 1971)
- Dr. Jeffrey Piepmeier (EE 1993)
- Dr. Jenelle (Armstrong) Piepmeier (ME 1993)
- David Russell (EE 1982)
- Nate Saint (MT, ATBS 1978)
- Dr. Stan Settles, Jr. (IE, PT 1962)
- Kerry Speicher (MT 1993)
- Wayne Steege (EE, ME 1983)
- Dr. Kenneth Stephens (ME 1955)
- Philip Temple (ME, WE 1971)
- Birne Wiley (IE 2018)
This extensive list highlights the diverse fields within engineering where LETU alumni have excelled, from Mechanical Engineering (ME) and Electrical Engineering (EE) to Industrial Engineering (IE), Engineering Technology (ET), and more specialized areas.
Beyond the Academy: Illustrious Alumni and Their Impact
The recognition by the Academy of Engineering and Engineering Technology is a significant honor, but the legacy of LeTourneau University's alumni extends far beyond this singular event. Numerous individuals have made indelible marks on their professions and communities, embodying the university's commitment to integrating faith, work, and service.
Nate Saint, a 1978 Mechanical Technology alumnus, stands as a prime example of an accomplished engineer and entrepreneur. As the CEO of Iron Mountains, LLC, Saint is widely recognized as the inventor of the innovative "Pack n Play" for Graco Children's Products, a product that has significantly impacted families worldwide. His journey exemplifies how technical skills honed at LETU can be leveraged for creative problem-solving and commercial success.
The concept of an "engineering legacy" is also evident within the LeTourneau alumni community. Scott and Josh Shaver, father and son, both graduated from LeTourneau University with engineering degrees, demonstrating a generational commitment to the field and the institution. This continuity speaks to the enduring value and influence of the education provided at LETU.
The university's history is also intertwined with influential figures who have shaped its identity and mission. Howard Crosby, a Class of '54 alumnus with a BS in Business Trades, shared his experiences working with R.G. LeTourneau, offering a unique perspective on the university's foundational years and its namesake's vision.
Read also: University of Georgia Sorority Guide
A true LeTourneau legend, Dr. Bill Graff, served as a professor for over 40 years. Known for his distinctive style, including his colorful ties, and his profound spiritual devotionals, Dr. Graff left an indelible mark on generations of students. His dedication to teaching and his embodiment of Christian virtue exemplify the faculty's crucial role in shaping students' character and professional trajectories.
The narrative of LeTourneau University is also enriched by the experiences of its early female students. One alumna recounted the challenges and triumphs of being among a small group of women in a male-dominated engineering program. "Well, it wasn't just me; it was all of us women that came and helped open those doors. Some of us were scared to death. I mean, there were six girls and 600 guys." This pioneering spirit highlights the evolving landscape of education and the determination of women to pursue careers in STEM fields.
The unique educational philosophy at LeTourneau University, which emphasizes the integration of technical training with a biblically-based education, is a recurring theme in alumni testimonials. As one graduate put it, "I enjoyed the combination of good, solid technical training, plus a solid, biblically-based education and knowledge…This is the only school I know of where you can get a good technical education that's also based in Christ. Can't do one without the other. You got to have both, otherwise you're half of an engineer, technician, or anything else." This holistic approach ensures that graduates are not only competent professionals but also individuals grounded in strong ethical and spiritual principles.
The sense of community and lifelong friendships forged at LeTourneau is another significant aspect of the alumni experience. The story of Peter and Sharon, who met in class and eventually married, highlights the personal connections that are central to the LETU experience. Their advice to current students, "Don't be afraid to try something new. Fear holds you back from a lot of things…We [instilled in] our kidsâwe have three children with families of their ownâthe importance of getting plugged into a local church and being around families, not just your peers," underscores the importance of both academic and spiritual development, emphasizing the role of community and mentorship.
The influence of professors who embody their faith is also deeply felt. Alumni often recall professors who, while not pastors, were "very godly men who lived out their faith," such as Dr. Lifer and Dr. Graf. These individuals served as role models, demonstrating how to integrate faith and professional life seamlessly. The availability of diverse spiritual activities on campus, including chapel, Spiritual Emphasis Week, and dorm devotions, further reinforced this integration for students.
Read also: History of the Block 'M'
Twin brothers Lloyd and Larry Smith, who graduated with engineering degrees and pursued careers in public education, shared their enduring connection to the university. Their father's discovery of the "NOW Magazine" in 1956, with the LeTourneau name prominently featured, marked the beginning of their family's long-standing relationship with the institution. The magazine, now framed, serves as a cherished reminder of the university's significance to them. They reflected on the pervasive spiritual influence at LETU, noting, "Everywhere you went, you were influenced spirituallyâby other students, Bible studies, Spiritual Emphasis Week. It was a flow, a continuum of spiritual education."
tags: #LeTourneau #University #notable #alumni
