Alex Hartzler, mechanical enginering
From First-Gen Beginnings to Cutting-Edge Tribology: Alex Hartzler’s Mechanical Engineering Story
For Alex Hartzler, a second-year Ph.D. student in mechanical engineering at UC Merced, persistence has always been central to his journey. Growing up in San Diego, he learned early on the importance of carving his own path. “That perspective has shaped how I approach challenges in engineering and motivates me to set an example for others with similar backgrounds,” Hartzler reflects.
His passion for mechanical engineering — and its potential to drive sustainable technologies — sparked his decision to pursue graduate studies. UC Merced stood out as the ideal place to realize that vision. “I chose UC Merced for its cutting-edge research environment and the chance to work closely with faculty who share my goals,” he explained.
At UC Merced, Hartzler has found an influential mentor in Dr. Ashlie Martini. Her guidance in tribology has not only advanced his technical skills but also inspired him to focus on an emerging area: electrified tribology. “Her mentorship has been transformative for me,” he shared.
Hartzler’s current research investigates how grease lubricants behave under electrified conditions, with an emphasis on improving their performance in electric vehicle drivetrains. The potential impact is significant: extending the lifetime and efficiency of EV components while accelerating the global shift toward cleaner transportation.
Beyond the lab, Hartzler has also found pride and fulfillment in teaching. Serving as a teaching assistant for the engineering capstone program, he guided students as they applied classroom knowledge to real-world problems. “Helping future engineers succeed was a rewarding experience,” he said, “and it gave me the chance to play a role in their growth.”
From his first-generation college student background in San Diego to his pioneering research in electrified tribology, Hartzler’s journey highlights resilience, innovation and a commitment to sustainability. His work demonstrates how personal determination can fuel scientific contributions with real-world impact.
