John has been a member of the AAO Board of Directors since November 2023, serving as a spokesperson during the Corridor ID Program Round One announcement and filling an integral role in AAO’s statewide Whistle Stop Tour.

In addition to his work with All Aboard Ohio, Esterly works as a locomotive engineer and is a dedicated member of the Brotherhood of Locomotive Engineers and Trainmen (BLET) Division 34 in Columbus, Ohio. He began his railroad career in 2011, earning promotion to locomotive engineer in 2015. Esterly's commitment to his profession and his fellow colleagues led him to actively engage in union leadership roles within the BLET, where he served in various capacities, including Trainmen’s Local Chairman and Ohio State Legislative Board Chairman.