Engineering tech gets top honors

Michael Fritz, Mechanical Technician of the Engineering Department, is Cal State Long Beach's October employee of the month.

Fritz is responsible for the maintenance of microscopes, engines, dynamometers, and all other laboratory equipment.

He also assists senior design students with the creation and construction of their course assignments including a solar car, electronic mini-baja, landing gear for airplanes, bicycle demonstrations and a human-powered vehicle.

Fritz said his job is extremely rewarding and gets satisfaction from advising students. He added that the College of Engineering continues to be very supportive and is comprised of a great group of people.

An Employee of the Month Ceremony will be held this morning, at 9:30 at the Friendship walk near the Student Union.

President Maxson will present Fritz with a CSULB sweatshirt, free movie passes, and a gift certificate to an Italian restaurant.

Before he began his thirteen-year career at CSULB, Fritz worked as a chief mechanic for Indianapolis-type cars for twelve years.

He worked with Indianapolis 500 stars Dan Gurney, Bobby Unser and his brother Al.

His work at Indianapolis Cars took him to races held in Mexico, Canada, England and many states in America.

After High School, Fritz worked as a janitor for Indianapolis Cars. Later he was promoted to fabricator, then mechanic and finally earned his title as chief mechanic.

In his free time, Fritz participates in off-road racing for Wilson Motor Sports in Paramount.

He also enjoys boating and water skiing in the Colorado River. His dream vacation is a week stay in a cozy houseboat at Lake Powell.

Fritz and his family are planning to spend a few days in Ensenada during the Winter break.