RISING RAILROAD PROFESSIONALS: CULTIVATING THE NEXT GENERATION OF RAIL PRESERVATIONISTS AT TVRM
This summer, Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum (TVRM) proudly launched our inaugural “Rising Railroad Professionals” overnight program. This initiative, meticulously designed for young individuals aged 15-17, aims to ignite and nourish a passion for the railroad preservation industry among the youth.
Our unique program caters to those with a keen interest in pursuing a career in the captivating world of railroads. The Rising Railroad Professionals program presents an immersive experience into steam and diesel operations, allowing participants to appreciate the depth of the industry’s history and its continued relevance in the present day.
Our participants had an enriching time attending an employee rules class, which offered a comprehensive understanding of railway operations. They also had the opportunity to see these principles in action during operations tours with our esteemed partners at Norfolk Southern.
To truly appreciate the railroad industry, one needs to understand every facet of its operation. Keeping this in mind, our participants performed hands-on track work and partook in fundraising initiatives. Learning didn’t stop there; participants also acquired the art of preparing and enjoying authentic dining car meals daily, served in our historically significant 1924 dining car.
Nights were spent in the comfort of TVRM’s Pullman sleeping car CLOVER COLONY, one of three Pullmans the participants experienced during their weeklong stay at the museum. The session also covered practical aspects of the industry, including artifact handling and grant writing. Participants were given an insight into the day-to-day logistics, challenges, and opportunities that characterize the historic rail industry.
Our pride in each of our campers and Rising Railroad Professional participants is boundless. Their commitment and enthusiasm towards learning and preserving the historical significance of railroads truly embodies the mission of TVRM. They are paving the way for the next generation of rail preservationists.
We invite you to learn more about the application process and future Rising Railroad Professionals sessions by visiting our website: Rising Railroad Professionals
The museum is located at 4119 Cromwell Road, Chattanooga, TN 37421. Dates for the upcoming 2024 Summer session will be announced soon (Eastern time).
Follow our journey and become a part of our growing community by using the hashtags #tennesseevalleyrailroadmuseum, #preservinghistory, #HistoricExperience, #tvrmrailcamp, and #TennesseeValleyRailroad on your social media posts.
Join us on this exciting adventure and help shape the future of the railroad preservation industry!