Whitewater Valley Railroad Announces 2026 Train Crew Training Course

CONNERSVILLE, IN – Have you ever wondered what it’s like to work on a railroad and be part of a real train crew? The Whitewater Valley Railroad is offering a unique opportunity to turn that curiosity into reality with its upcoming hands-on volunteer training course.

The classes are scheduled for six consecutive Saturdays, beginning February 21, 2026, and concluding March 28, 2026. Each session will run from 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM at the railroad’s South Connersville Shop and Yard.

From Student to Brakeman

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 curriculum balances classroom theory with rugged, outdoor activities using full-size historic railroad equipment.

Classroom topics include:

• History of the Whitewater Valley Railroad and railroad safety.

• Train operations: rules, signaling, and train orders.

• Air brake technology and fail-safe operations.

• Steam and diesel locomotive fundamentals.

• Roles and responsibilities of a volunteer train crew.

Hands-on outdoor activities include:

• Operating switches and hand signals.

• Radio communications and journal box maintenance.

• Coupling/uncoupling and connecting air hoses.

• Assembling a train and preparing it for departure.

• Operating a historic diesel locomotive.

How to Join

The course fee is $50 per student, which covers all training materials and includes a one-year railroad membership. Participants must be at least 18 years old, dress for the weather (classes are rain or shine), and be physically capable of following safety instructions in a working rail yard.

Registration & Contact:

• Sign Up: Register Online and Pay the Fee HERE

• Email: trainingclass@whitewatervalleyrr.org

• Phone: (765) 825-2054

Not interested in train service? The railroad is always looking for volunteers for other vital roles. Contact the volunteer coordinator at volunteer@whitewatervalleyrr.org to discuss how your skills can help preserve Indiana’s scenic railroad history.