Hello Folks,
Roger and I have discussed establishing a regular (perhaps monthly) series of steam maintenance days where we openly encourage involvement. We would like to teach the basics of maintaining operating steam locomotives- the 'nuts and bolts.'
This is meant to contrast from the big- exciting projects like No 11. Instead- this is the day to day of what it takes to run steam locomotives. Plus- our small team of maintenance volunteers need help!
Please note that some of this work is quite specialized and needs to be done correctly. All work needs to be approved, and possibly supervised and/or taught by Roger or another regular steam maintenance person. While we'll do our best to engage anyone interested- some tasks won't be appropriate for small children or folks with physical limitations so be patient as we match task with volunteer, especially as this program is just getting started.
Our first planned day is next Saturday, March 8, 2025. (This could be kicked to March 15 if there's a strong sentiment here). There's a variety of work planned- Roger is maintaining a running work list as part of his upcoming role as Enginehouse Foreman.
We don't yet have a brand for this program- though we feel it needs one. "Steam Backshop Apprenticeship" or something. We're open to ideas here- but we should put this idea in a branding box so it's easier to spread the word.
Please respond here if you can make it next Saturday. Future month's sessions may have to be a weekday due to operations but we'll schedule month by month for now.
Also please feel free to share your thoughts on this program.
Thanks
Jason
