John Mireles

John is a native Texan who has always admired the sheer "presence" of 982. He began volunteering with TRPA not that long ago, but before long he was reaching out in any way he could to help spread the message of steam to local Houstonians. We were so impressed with John's enthusiasm, that we offered him an instrumental role to help develop his skills more, allowing him to do what he enjoys every week! He is one of the current acting coordinators for the TRPA's outreach team. 

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  " The first time I saw the 982,  I was 4 years old going to Hermann Park with my grandparents to ride the old Hermann Park scaled train. I remember how large and big this locomotive was and thought it was the coolest thing to see and is what inspired me to get involved and learn about steam locomotives. To this day -  I am fortunate to be working on the 982 and learning new things about the locomotive everyday.

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 I enjoy being the coordinator for the organization and working alongside the TRPA family to help bring Steam power back to the great city of Houston, Texas. I do believe that this organization can bring people of all kinds young and old together to enjoy steam power again and get them involved.  That includes future volunteers to help preserve, maintain, and help keep these steam locomotives in great operation condition. I do believe that this organization has a great future ahead with the amazing crew and board members we have to keep this organization going and I can’t wait to see what the future holds for the TRPA. 

 

  Fun fact about me; During the holidays I operate the CP Huntington train for the Living Stone Church,  and I enjoy visiting other scenic railroads. "

- John. M.