1968-
2019-
Larry Fleischer worked in Forestry programs in Chile, including: "Headed group of about 7 forest fighters with a specially equipped four wheel drive vehicle for forest fires. Operated out of Quillota in the dry valleys to the East of town". Later he switched to Peace Corps and Chilean government self-help housing programs, and helped build housing communities on the outskirts of Los Vilos, Tongoy, and Coquimbo. Larry writes: “I recently used Google Maps and found that many of these houses are still standing although they have been modified by the inhabitants." I did not pursue a career in Forestry, but went to Ohio State to get a Master’s degree in Mechanical Engineering. I worked as an engineer and engineering manager in the chemical, power plant, avionics, shipboard and commercial satellite industries. Although the Peace Corps did not cause me to choose a different career, it was a great experience that has influenced me in many ways. For one, it provided me with a greater understanding and empathy for people living in a different country.