From Campus Sign Shop to University Airport: Michael Johnston Retires After 35 Years at UC Davis

After 35 years of dedicated service, Maintenance Supervisor Michael Johnston is retiring from UC Davis.

During his time on campus, Michael witnessed firsthand how dramatically technology and campus operations have evolved. From changes in infrastructure to the ways employees perform their work, he saw the campus grow and adapt over the decades.

Michael particularly enjoyed overseeing operations at the Campus Sign Shop, the University Airport, and Parking Maintenance. While leading the Sign Shop, Michael and his team completed several notable projects, including building the large campus entry sign on Old Davis Road, vinyl-wrapping a Unitrans bus, installing signage at the Tahoe Environmental Research Center and Bodega Bay, and hanging a 50-by-40 foot banner over the scoreboard at Hickey Field.

Throughout his career, Michael found great satisfaction in repairing transportation equipment as an electronics technician and working alongside others across campus. He valued the opportunity to train and collaborate with student engineers and professors on maintenance projects. For the past fifteen years, Michael also provided safety and maintenance oversight for the University Airport, maintaining the grounds and facilities while engaging the campus community.

Reflecting on his time at UC Davis, Michael shared that the people are what made the experience most meaningful. 

“Our campus employees are the absolute best. Everyone working together to make campus a must-see destination and top educational institution in the world.” 

In retirement, Michael looks forward to traveling the world, working on a novel, and spending more time playing guitar and singing. The UC Davis community thanks him for his many years of service and wishes him all the best in this next chapter.