Technical services director to retire after four decades at SF State

Posted Wed, 12/17/2008 - 9:03am by Matt Itelson

For the first time in 42 years, someone other than Brian Weiner will have to order new telephones for Creative Arts staff and faculty. Weiner, director of Creative Arts Technical Services (CATS), will retire Dec. 24. He has remained responsible for several of the same tasks throughout his career, while rising in the ranks.

Weiner was hired Sept. 1, 1966, when a new addition to the Creative Arts Building created needs for new audio technician jobs. The Radio-Television-Film student never looked back. As CATS director, he manages a staff of 30 employees, handling the College of Creative Arts’ facilities and equipment. When a light needs to be replaced, when a piano needs tuning, when someone needs access to the building, call Brian.

“I like making things work and helping people,” said Weiner, who also worked as a remote audio specialist during the 1970s for telecasts of the San Francisco 49ers, Oakland A’s, roller derby, professional basketball and hockey.

He has enjoyed Creative Arts’ vibrant activity and events over the years.

“You never know what the day will bring,” he said. “There is lots going on, and we need to make sure it all happens smoothly.”

Weiner possesses a razor-sharp memory for the campus and its facilities, recalling details of repairs and changes to SF State’s buildings. In the past, the University administration called on him to help run the audio for Commencement. During the SF State student strike of 1968, Weiner set up a public-address system for President S.I. Hayakawa to make outdoor announcements from his office in the Administration Building. Weiner doesn’t think the system was ever used, however.

Weiner, a Sonoma resident, looks forward to spending lots of time with his three grandchildren. He also plans to remain active with the Boy Scouts Redwood Empire Council, where he is vice president of advancement.