A resident of Beaver Creek, Ohio, Ervin Nutter was born in Hamilton, Ohio. He is a 1943 UK Graduate with a B.S. in mechanical engineering. He paid for his education by working as an electrician in the University Maintenance Department. Mr. Nutter became a civilian engineer in the Wright-Patterson Air Force Equipment Laboratory, eventually becoming the only civilian Branch Chief, and was responsible for testing of aircraft and equipment in adverse environmental conditions for worldwide operations. In 1950, he started an engineering and manufacturing company, which grew from one employee to become one of the world's leading manufacturers of sophisticated tubular assemblies for private, commercial and military jet engines. His ELANO Corporation research technology and production continues today under the ownership of General Electric. He has received numerous honors over the years, and has been a great benefactor of the University of Kentucky (Nutter Center) and of Wright State University.