Engine 18 is a tailgating fire engine built in 2017 by a group of University of Montana Western alumni and sports fans in Dillon, MT. Engine 18 was originally built to provide an ultimate tailgating experience, but quickly became a vehicle used for raising money for athletic scholarships at UMW. It was named Engine 18 in honor of UMW football player M.J. Simkins, whose life was tragically cut short. M.J. wore the number 18 to show his love for Dillon and Beaverhead County, which is Montana County number 18.

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In the summer of 2018, after some very generous donations and many hours of work, Smoker 1 was added to the fleet. Although not as pretty as Engine 18, it serves as a very functional cooking vehicle. 

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Engine 18 Foundation, Inc. was formed in 2018 as a tax exempt organization. Engine 18 Foundation is a 501(c)(3), and is generally referred to as Engine 18.

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Engine 18 was gifted an enclosed trailer by a very generous local family.  The trailer has been used to sell merchandise from at events and store equipment. A commercial freezer was also purchased for food storage.

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In 2022, Engine 18 purchased property near the University of Montana Western. 

Engine 18 is currently building a permanent home on that property.  The fire engines,

trailer, smoker and freezer will all be stored at the location. Engine 18 also plans to

use the building for meetings and events.

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Engine 18 is proud of the success and character demonstrated by our teams and is thankful for the long-standing traditions of our programs. Engine 18 is committed to providing support to UMW student-athletes and programs in honor of past Bulldog players and coaches.​​