John Mobley, a BNSF conductor and engineer in San Bernardino, California, is among the fewer than 100 individuals in the United States qualified to operate a steam locomotive. When not on duty, Mobley volunteers with the Southern California Railway Museum, where he can share his passion for steam engines.
Operating a steam locomotive requires manual control, constant monitoring of steam pressure and temperature, and effective communication between the engineer and fireman. A third-generation railroader, Mobley draws his appreciation for railroad heritage from his family’s 100-plus years of combined service with BNSF and its predecessors.
Mobley is dedicated to educating visitors, and encourages his colleagues to participate in the museum to help preserve and share the rich history of railroading.
Learn more here.