JOHN S. ENGS | Colorado Springs, CO

A Friends volunteer for the past 28 years, John has worked on several major restoration and reconstruction projects for the Friends. Most notable is the 9-year project for operational reconstruction of steam Pile Driver ‘OB’ at the Colorado Springs (COS) Work Site, completed in 2008. Along with seven other volunteers he is part of the operating crew demonstrating OB to the public. In Chama, the conversion of Passenger-Box 457 back to a Box Car, now museum Car 3533. The crown jewel in reconstruction, a 11-year project reconstructing an 1889 Tourist Sleeper Car 470, returning it to its original condition when leaving the Pullman factory. John has had several careers: First, 22 years in the fire service retiring as a deputy fire chief; second, a career as owner and operations manager of his fire alarm company for 31 years; third and present is his involvement with the Friends. John has served as site leader for the COS Work Site since 2007. In 2009 he was elected to the Board of Directors and in 2010 became co-chair of the Projects Committee. He is currently Projects Committee chair and frequently fills site leader positions at many work sessions. When not in Antonito or Chama he is at the COS work site, a year around operation currently restoring an original 1872 Baggage Express Car 163. He frequently represents the Friends as a speaker for various railroad and public group gatherings. John openly admits his third career is a challenge but an enjoyable one.