and be part of a train crew?
Volunteer
Here's your opportunity to participate in a hands-on training course to become a train crew member at the Whitewater Valley Railroad. The classes are scheduled for six consecutive Saturdays, starting on February 22, 2025, and concluding on March 29, 2025. Each session runs from 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM.
Students who successfully complete the course and pass the required safety and rules tests will be eligible to begin train service as student brakemen. The training includes both classroom instruction and hands-on outdoor activities using full-size railroad equipment.
Topics covered in the classroom portion include:
- history of the Whitewater Valley Railroad
- railroad safety
- train operations, including rules, signaling, and train orders
- air brakes and the technology behind fail-safe operations
- steam locomotive basics
- diesel locomotive basics
- duties and responsibilities of train crew members
- volunteer opportunities at the Whitewater Valley Railroad
The outdoor activities will include:
- railroad safety
- hand signals and radio communications
- operation of switches
- coupling and uncoupling
- connecting air hoses
- journal box inspections and maintenance
- assembling a train and preparing it for departure
- operating one of the railroad's historic diesel locomotives
The course fee is $50 per student, which includes all materials and a one-year railroad membership. Participants must be 18 years or older and capable of understanding and following instructions. Classes are conducted at the railroad's South Connersville Shop and Yard, located at 300 S Eastern Ave in Connersville. Please dress appropriately for the weather, as outdoor activities will take place rain or shine.
Register for the class online and pay the fee HERE.
For more information, email us at trainingclass@whitewatervalleyrr.org or call us at (765) 825-2054.
Not interested in train service? Contact our volunteer coordinator at volunteer@whitewatervalleyrr.org or call us at (765) 825-2054. We will be happy to discuss other volunteer opportunities at the Whitewater Valley Railroad that may suit your interests and skills.