A Civil Engineer With a Love for Service

As a young man working for the Texas Highway Department, Charles Machemehl, BS '57, MSE '64, realized something big — to have the career he wanted, he would have to earn a civil engineering degree.

That belief in the power of education is still with him today. He has given generously to support students at The University of Texas at Austin, including a type of estate gift called a charitable remainder trust that will provide scholarships to Cockrell School of Engineering and McCombs School of Business students.

UT Nostalgia

Charles' football prowess earned him a scholarship to UT where he played center and completed ROTC. Charles said, "Those memories are only topped by my favorite memory — finding my wife Sonya." She was a business major and they were married for 52 years until her death in 2009.

"I was able to attend graduate school because Dr. Clyde Lee set up night courses," said Charles. "Dr. Lee was tough but fair and he, along with Dr. Ronald Hudson, prepared me for the leadership roles ahead." Charles' brother, Dr. Randy Machemehl, is currently professor of transportation engineering at UT.

Charles moved to Alabama and at Vulcan Materials Co. became an expert in using crushed stone in infrastructure projects. When he retired, he was VP of marketing and business. He also rose to the rank of brigadier general in the Alabama Air National Guard.

In Service of Others

Charles is proudest of time spent serving others, especially as a mentor. He shared the importance of giving back, which he ties closely to his faith. Charles feels strongly about sharing his good fortune to help talented students attend UT.

The estate gift, created through a trust, will help Charles do just that — and it offers a tax deduction up front, income for life and the ability to split the remainder between Cockrell and McCombs to support the scholarships he and Sonya created.

Your Opportunity

Protect your future and the future of UT with a legacy commitment. Contact our experienced team at no obligation at the Gift and Estate Planning Team at giftplan@austin.utexas.edu or 512-475-9632.