Vehicle Mechanic David Janjanin, who joined the Belt in December 2025, is familiar with turning wrenches on heavy-duty equipment.

During his 15 years of service with the U.S. Army, Janjanin performed Level 10 maintenance on M1A2 Abrams tanks and gained experience with Humvees and mine-resistant ambush protected (MRAP) vehicles. He also was a gunner and a scout.

Janjanin was deployed three times to Iraq between 2003 and 2008 and once to Afghanistan in 2009. Assigned to the 4th Infantry Division, Janjanin said leadership and accountability were central to his role as he rose to the rank of staff sergeant.

“I wanted to make sure my fellow soldiers came back home,” he said.

Noting the close bond he formed with his four-member tank crew, he says they were like brothers as they relied on one another in high-pressure environments. He stated that he’s proud of his fellow service members and his time in the armed forces.

Janjanin says his time in the military helped form his perspective and taught him to stay driven while appreciating what he has. He continues to carry that mindset forward with the Belt.

Christensen settles in

Since joining the Belt this past December, Vehicle Mechanic Bobby Christensen has seen firsthand why his father, John, a trainmaster and former Mechanical Department employee, recommended the career.

While he previously worked as an automotive detailer, the younger Christensen says his new job requires a strong focus on safety, teamwork and technical knowledge of various hydraulic and electrical systems.

“It’s interesting to me,” Christensen said about working on the Belt’s equipment and gaining a better understanding of the company’s operations.

Christensen notes that using proper track protection and maintaining clear communication with dispatchers and yardmasters are essential for doing his job safely.

In his free time, Christensen enjoys modifying his 1991 Mazda Miata, stating, “A car project never ends.” He’s changed the car’s front suspension, along with other alterations, to make it more enjoyable to drive.

Along with cruising in his roadster, Christensen likes attending car shows and working on projects with friends.