Arthur Engel and twin brother Benjamin Engel graduated together from the U.S. Coast Guard Academy, New London, Connecticut, Class of 1938. From 1967 to 1970, Arthur Engel served as Superintendent of the Coast Guard Academy. He retired as a U.S. Coast Guard Rear Admiral in 1970, at which time he became Superintendent of the U.S. Merchant Marine Academy. His twin brother Benjamin retired as a U.S. Coast Guard Vice Admiral.