Grandt, Alten F., Jr.
Dates
- Existence: 1945-
Biographical Information
Alten (“Skip”) F. Grandt was born in 1945 to Alten F. “Al” Grandt Sr. and Ruth Brauer Grandt. He received his Bachelor of Science degree from the University of Illinois in 1968. He continued on at the University of Illinois to obtain his Masters in 1969 and his Ph.D. in 1971.
Grandt’s first job was with the United States Air Force, where he worked in the Materials Laboratory at Wright Patterson Air Force Base. It was during this time that he became interested in aeronautics, specifically the fatigue and fracture of aircraft structures. As a teaching assistant at the University of Illinois, he realized how much he enjoyed teaching statics and strength of materials, and also enjoyed advising students. These things led to his becoming a faculty member at Purdue University.
Grandt was a part of the Purdue Aeronautics and Astronautics faculty from 1979 – 2016, and had the designation of the Raisbeck Engineering Distinguished Professor of Engineering and Technology Integration. He served as Head of the School from 1985 – 1992.
Per a Purdue University School of Aeronautics and Astronautics faculty brochure, his advice for undergraduates passed down from not only him but his father and grandfather, “Work hard, develop a reputation of working hard, and consistently do your best.”
Grandt retired as a Purdue faculty member in 2016.
Citation:
Program, Purdue University School of Aeronautics and Astronautics, The AEE Special Seminar Series Presents: “Baby Steps – Early History of Aerospace Engineering at Purdue University,” March 31, 2016.Grandt’s father’s obituary, Legacy.com. Accessed 15 October 2018. http://www.legacy.com/obituaries/PJStar/obituary.aspx?n=Alten-Grandt&pid=169869906