FWP AT WORK Duane Johnson, Shop Mechanic, Helena

FLEET FIXER

DUANE JOHNSON

“HERE I’M WORKING ON one of FWP’s various fleet vehicles. These are driven by game wardens, biologists, technicians, parks employees, and other department employees across Montana. At this site we operate the department’s only mechanic shop, a fabrication shop, and an electronics shop. In the fabrication shop, my primary area, we build custom truck racks to accommodate winches, lights, tool boxes, tie- down rails, and hydraulic lift beds. We also fabricate and repair items such as bear traps, fish barriers, roadway gates, and trailers. I work here with two other mechanics—Brandon Madden and Joe Mariner. The three of us pretty much do it all—clutches, transmission, front end repairs, tune-ups, body work, you name it. And we work on FWP’s four-wheelers, snowmobiles, boats, and even small generators and water pumps. We also install the truck radios, emergency lights, sirens, video and computer systems, and all other essential enforcement equipment. It’s a good feeling knowing that you’re helping the wardens, biologists, and other FWP employees by keeping their vehicles in good working condition. Before working here I didn’t pay much attention to FWP trucks on the road. Now I’ll be driving along and will spot every one that drives past. I tell my wife, ‘Hey, I worked on that truck a few months ago. Lookin’ good!’ ”