Rail preservation efforts often can come full circle. For 29-year-old Aaron Farmer, his career has circled back to the Steam Railroading Institute (SRI) in Owosso, Mich. From the beginning as a young volunteer to now being employed as the Master Mechanic of Rolling Stock for the non-profit organization, his journey involves understanding the value of continual knowledge and teamwork.
How did you get involved in rail preservation?
Aaron Farmer: It really was the Steam Railroading Institute. I’ve always liked steam locomotives and heard about this big event happening there in 2009 [Train Festival 2009]. I couldn’t make it as I was out of state. The following year, I came out to SRI for the first time and started volunteering, which was at the beginning stages of the 1472-day boiler inspections and rebuild for the organization’s Pere Marquette steam locomotive No. 1225. That’s what got the ball rolling in the interest.
The stars aligned quickly while volunteering for about a year and a half. I then was able to land a paid position at the Henry Ford’s Greenfield Village in Dearborn, Mich., starting as a fireman and later being promoted to an engineer on their railroad. It came full circle as I was back at SRI to work full time in 2019, now serving as the Master Mechanic of Rolling Stock for the fleet of passenger and freight cars.
As a young preservationist at age 29, what have you found to be the most challenging aspects in the industry?
Aaron Farmer: I think it is kind of the age factor. It’s not so much of it now because I think I’m cresting the hill so to speak. But definitely years before, I was always the young person in the room. I don’t want to say I was told, “Your opinions don’t matter,” but I still had a lot to learn and there’s always a better way to do things. So, there was always a learning curve of fighting the age difference and trying to prove yourself in knowledge.
What’s been the most rewarding for you so far?
Aaron Farmer: I know it sounds kind of cheesy, but it’s the people side of preservation. Especially during our holiday season, the North Pole Express has seen happy families experiencing a steam locomotive for oftentimes the first time. Then you have the volunteer and behind-the-scenes aspects with everybody coming together to make sure the show operates on time and without any issues. Watching everything come together and operating like a well-oiled machine is pretty cool.
Where do you see rail preservation as it is today and what do you hope it’ll become for the future?
Aaron Farmer: It seems like a lot of organizations are working closely together. That was always my goal and I hope it’s proven true as sometimes that mentality gets lost on some people and organizations. We’re all in this together to work with each other, share knowledge and achieve the same goals.
What advice would you give for any young person looking to get involved in the industry?
Aaron Farmer: I say simply study up, there’s a lot of opportunities to gain knowledge. Read, listen and ask questions. Sometimes, you’ll need to put your pride to the side for a minute and accept you’re the new kid on the block.
Nobody’s perfect, but always continue to learn more.
