Dr. Combs was the recipient of the first doctoral degree in engineering awarded at the University of Arkansas. After finishing school, Combs joined Exxon as a senior research engineer. In 1970, Combs returned to the UA as a faculty member in engineering science. In 1978, Combs joined Environmental Systems Company (ENSCO), where he had overall technical responsibility for the company’s toxic waste disposal system. He served as Vice President of Research and Development for ENSCO from 1978 until 1993. Combs then established Combs Equity Management, where was currently owner and manager. The Combs Auditorium in the Bell Engineering Center is named in recognition of his generosity. UA College of Engineering Hall of Fame, 1998. UA College of Engineering Advisory Council.

Arkansas Academy of Chemical Engineers inaugural induction, 2005.

Dr. Combs passed away June 9, 2014. He will be missed.