Dave and Linda Rogers

Dave Rogers began a 25-year career as an engineer at the Bureau of Reclamation right after graduating college. He developed an expertise in hydraulic analysis and design for large water projects. He retired from the Bureau at age 47 but continues to work part-time as a specialist consultant through his company, Rogers Engineering Hydraulics, Inc. In addition to work in the United States, Dave has worked on projects in India, Egypt, France, Morocco, Brazil, Spain, Pakistan, and Mexico.

For the first 15 years of semi-retirement, Dave worked about half-time. In recent years he has worked 15 to 35% of full-time.

Now age 68, Dave says he will probably work another 10 years, “Where I can add value to interesting projects, doing things that others can’t.” He continues “I like problem-solving. I like being a technical person that can figure out things other people need help with. I like people coming to me asking for help rather than being in a position of needing to sell something to people that they don’t necessarily think they want. That’s an advantage.”

Linda works part-time at Ski Granby Ranch ski area, where she initially was a ski instructor, but with COVID has transitioned to the lift ticket office. She also works part-time for the retail shop in the Visitor Center at the nearby Rocky Mountain National Park, where she enjoys sharing her love of the park with park visitors.

They frequently eat an Asian diet, mostly Japanese and Chinese, with lots of vegetables, fruit, and whole grains. Dave reports, “I practice moderation in all things, including moderation.”

Dave continues “I have a long history of doing things I like to do that keep me in shape.” Dave skis (alpine, mountaineering, and cross country), rock climbs, rides road and mountain bikes, hikes, and backpacks. He trains for rock climbing, especially for hand and forearm strength. Linda mostly hikes, skis and backpacks. She hikes both with Dave and with a group of women she met while she volunteered as a hike leader in the Colorado Mountain Club.

They plan to get back to international travel when the COVID pandemic recedes.

Are you working or volunteering past age 65? Do you know someone who is? I would love to hear your story! I can be reached at russ@strategicexit.com.