Ewbank retires after 27 years with Purdue IE

On January 31 Purdue IE said farewell to Wayne Ewbank, IE Manufacturing Laboratory Coordinator for the past 27 years. He trained generations of IE students in manufacturing techniques.
Well-wishers' signatures on a replica of the Grissom Hall Photo Wall featuring Wayne with students.
Well-wishers' signatures on a replica of the Grissom Hall Photo Wall featuring Wayne with students.

Ewbank was hired in 1991 to manage the IE Manufacturing Laboratory in Michael Golden Labs (MGL). After graduating from Purdue in 1969 with a BS in Industrial Supervision, he worked for TRW for a year and the Duncan Electric Company (now Landis+Gyr) for 17 years, both in Lafayette.

Wayne trained hundreds of students during his 27 years in Purdue IE.
Wayne trained hundreds of students during his 27 years in Purdue IE.

“I’ve had a very good ride with Purdue IE, and I’m glad to have worked with the staff and the students that we have,” he says. “I’ve always had fun with the students.”

Former roommates: Wayne with retired NASA astronaut Jerry Ross
Former roommates: Wayne with retired NASA astronaut Jerry Ross

On January 19 Purdue IE held a retirement reception for Ewbank, his family and friends in Grissom Hall’s Student Excellence Center. Over 120 people attended, including his former housemates from Circle Pines Men’s Co-operative and his former roommate, NASA astronaut Jerry Ross. The School gave him a retirement plaque, a small crystal Purdue train, and a copy of his photo from the Grissom Photo Wall signed by many of the reception attendees.

Extended Ewbank family, including daughter Kristi Kauffman, Wayne Ewbank, wife Ruth Ewbank, and son Michael Ewbank.
Extended Ewbank family, including daughter Kristi Kauffman, Wayne Ewbank, wife Ruth Ewbank, and son Michael Ewbank.

Au revoir — “until we meet again” — and thank you, Wayne!

Wayne Ewbank and Ruth Ewbank (married 1967).
Wayne Ewbank and Ruth Ewbank (married 1967).