The train crews consist of both men and women who are volunteer engineers, firemen, brakemen and conductors that run and carry out the required operations of the trains and locomotives. We have all participated in the initial training and annual certification classes that are required for all train operations.
The train crews are responsible for the safe and efficient operations and movements of the trains.
- Engineers and fireman operate and control the steam and diesel locomotives.
- Brakemen perform all operational duties on the train – coupling, uncoupling and moving the cars and locomotives, connecting and disconnecting air lines, setting and releasing handbrakes on the cars, operating track switches to move train cars from one track to another, and assisting and interacting with passengers for their comfort and safety.
- Conductors oversee and coordinate all train crew actions for safe and efficient operations.
The following skills are required:
- Desire to learn about real world railroad operations, procedures and safety.
- Physical ability to climb up on and off of railroad cars, locomotives and equipment.
- Able to work as a member of a crew for a challenging and rewarding experience
Train crews work on regular Sunday operating days during the year, as well as occasional special event trains on Saturdays and Sundays, such as: Wine train and beer train specials, charter trains, and the annual Train of Lights in late November and all of December.