Texas Tech University

Distinguished Engineer Citations

                 
Distinguished Engineer Photo: David E. Sharbutt
David E. Sharbutt

David E. Sharbutt

Distinguished Engineer

1998

Degree

Electrical Engineering – 1971

 

Citation

At Time of Nomination in 1998

David E. Sharbutt grew up in Levelland, Texas. He graduated from Texas Tech University in 1971 with a Bachelor of Science degree in Electrical Engineering.

After graduation, he joined Schlumberger Well Services, in 1974 he moved to San Antonio to work for Southwestern Bell Telephone Company. While an employee of Southwestern Bell, he was instrumental in the development of a Digital Data Service (DDS) network plan and computerized records keeping system for the San Antonio area of Southwestern Bell’s Texas operation.

In 1977 he joined Hicks & Ragland Engineering Company in Lubbock. He became a firm principal in 1984 and served as the Division Director from 1986 to 1990. He currently serves as the President and Chief Executive Officer. He has been instrumental in developing expertise in complex and detailed economic and financial analysis and at providing new business development opportunities, which enhanced the business of his clients, Hicks & Ragland, in a few short years, has grown from a small regional firm into a firm that practices in 35 states in the U.S. and in six Pacific Rim islands. He serves as a role model, a mentor, and a leader to the Hicks & Ragland employees.

David is a Registered Professional Engineer in 27 states in the U.S., Guam, and the Virgin Islands. He was selected as the Texas Society of Professional Engineer’s South Plains Chapter "Young Engineer of the Year" in 1983. He has served as president of the Association of Communications Engineers, chairman of the National Telephone Cooperative Association’s Associate Members Advisory Council, chairman of the Texas Tech Electrical Engineering Industrial Advisory Board, and is a member of the local chapter of the National and Texas Society of Professional Engineers. He is also a member of the Electrical Engineering Academy.

He serves as a deacon at Bacon Heights Baptist Church. He was appointed by the Mayor to serve as the Chairman on the Facility Reuse Committee for Reese Air Force Base. He is a dedicated husband to his wife Patsy and father to his children, Tina, Justin, and Amanda.

Texas Tech University is pleased to recognize David E. Sharbutt as a DISTINGUISHED ENGINEER.

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