AUSTIN, Texas—Ernest R. Hunter Sr., P.E., A.C.P., has been named director of the Physical Plant at The University of Texas at Austin, officials announced Friday (June 8).
Hunter brings more than 17 years of senior management experience to the position, as well as a broad range of technical skills, professional expertise and an intimate knowledge of the University’s Physical Plant operations.
Hunter earned master’s degrees in two areas, a M.E. in electrical engineering from Texas AandM University, and a M.S. in national resources strategy from Industrial College of the Armed Forces, Washington, D.C.
In addition to serving as assistant director of the UT Austin Physical Plant for the past two years, Hunter has held many high profile positions with the U.S. Navy and the federal government. These include commanding officer, Engineering Field Activity West in San Bruno, Calif., and deputy assistant secretary for the U.S. Department of Energy in Washington, D.C.
He has managed organizations in excess of 500 employees during his naval career and his tenure at the University, and administered operations with budgets of up to $200 million. Hunter’s diverse experience in physical plant operations includes managing landscape services, custodial services, general services, facilities maintenance and operations, utilities maintenance and operations, architect and engineering design services, and construction and facilities contracting.
One of Hunter’s greatest assets in his new position is his strong communication skills, which he demonstrated during his tenure as assistant director of UT’s Physical Plant by consistently articulating complex ideas and strategic solutions to individuals at every level within UT Austin.
Hunter’s appointment was effective June 4, 2001.
