Building the tools to explore new worlds

UC Santa Cruz Engineering Fellowship supports alumnus Michael Gonzales’ role with SCALES

Michael Gonzales
Michael Gonzales (’22, physics)

Michael Gonzales has always been drawn to exploration—through his fascination with the cosmos or his knack for solving complex challenges. Now, as a test engineer for the Slicer Combined with an Array of Lenslets for Exoplanet Spectroscopy (SCALES) with University of California Observatories (UCO), he plays a pivotal role in developing instruments that push the boundaries of what humanity can see and understand.

“We’re building tools to discover things no one has ever seen before,” Gonzales (’22, physics) says. “It’s exciting to be part of work that will shape the future of astronomy.”

Gonzales’ path to the stars was nontraditional but laid a foundation of experience that has proved invaluable. After working for more than a decade in the automotive industry, first as a mechanic and then later in sales, Gonzales decided to pursue his long-standing fascination with physics and engineering. 

"I always loved astronomy and cosmology. It was no longer enough to read books on the side anymore—I wanted to be part of the research,” he says. 

Starting at Evergreen Valley College in San Jose, he rebuilt his academic foundation, ultimately transferring to UC Santa Cruz in 2020.

“The pandemic was in full swing,” he says, “but I still found opportunities to get involved in research right away, thanks to amazing mentors like Andy Skemer [professor of astronomy and astrophysics at UCSC].”

Gonzales joined the SCALES team as a student researcher, bringing with him the hands-on skills in machining and fabrication he’d gained as an auto mechanic. 

“I was able to contribute immediately by building components, designing fixtures in CAD [computer-aided design], and running tests,” he says. 

Upon graduation from UCSC, Gonzales’ unique blend of practical and theoretical knowledge earned him a full-time position with SCALES as a test engineer. He also received an engineering fellowship, which supports his current role.

The fellowship, funded by the Helen and Will Webster Foundation, holds deep significance for Gonzales.

“It’s a huge honor. It feels like a validation of the hard work I’ve put in and the support I’ve received along the way. None of this happens alone, and I’m incredibly grateful for the donors’ generosity,” he says.

Sandra Faber, professor emerita in astronomy and astrophysics at UCSC, says the Webster Foundation’s generous gift is transforming experiential learning for students in the University of California Observatories’ Instrument Labs, home to SCALES. Faber explains that the fellowship empowers students to gain hands-on experience in astronomical instrumentation under the guidance of expert engineers and graduate students. 

“By enabling more direct interaction with world-class projects like SCALES, the Webster Foundation is ensuring the next generation of innovators can thrive,” Faber says. “The foundation’s vision empowers our students to master the art and science of instrument construction, preparing them to lead in fields that demand both creativity and precision."

For Gonzales, the transition from student researcher to full-time test engineer was seamless. 

“My job is to assemble and test components, identify weaknesses, and make improvements so they perform reliably in the field. It’s like solving puzzles every day.” 

His dedication has been instrumental in advancing SCALES, a complex instrument with numerous moving parts scheduled to be deployed one year from now.

Colleagues at SCALES describe Gonzales as a linchpin of the team. Professor Andy Skemer says, “Michael has an incredible breadth of talent: he has the experienced hands of a mechanic, the theoretical understanding of a physics major, and a growing set of skills in electronics and software. This is the perfect combination to be an Instrument Test Engineer for astronomical instruments.”

“Michael is the future of University of California Observatories’ instrument development program,” Skemer continues, “and the fellowship will help him grow into the leader we believe he can become. As a recent graduate of UCSC, he also stands to serve as a role model and mentor to the next generation of UCSC students. The fellowship will provide him with the extra time to share his knowledge and advice with students who are training in UC Observatories’ Instrument Laboratories.”

Maureen Savage, Gonzales’ supervisor, concurs. “In his short time here [with SCALES], Michael has taken on a wide variety of tasks and has done excellent work across instrument and mechanism integration, motor control testing, and cryogenics. His thoughtful insights add value to our work. We are so fortunate to have him working here!”

When asked what advice he would give to current and future students, Gonzales emphasizes the value of persistence and practical experience. 

“Don’t be afraid to get your hands dirty. Learning how to build and test things changes how you approach problem-solving,” he advises. He also reflects on the importance of long-term planning: “If something feels daunting, remember, time will pass regardless. You can either take steps toward your goal or stay in the same place.”

As Gonzales continues his work with SCALES, his story is a powerful testament to resilience, curiosity, and the transformative power of a UCSC education. His gratitude to the donors extends beyond his personal journey. 

“Their support allows researchers like me to contribute to something bigger,” Gonzales says. “It’s humbling and motivating to know that people believe in the work we’re doing.”