Model railroading is an incredible hobby, that can teach you multiple skills, techniques, and tools.
Aside from scenery and model building itself, operations is another aspect of the hobby that can open up an entirely new frontier of fun and realism for your railroad.
In this class, your instructor Josh Clark will discuss prototype rail operations, applications to your layout, and how to design an operation session. This class is designed to apply to modelers of all skill levels and layouts of any size. Whether your layout is 4’ x 8’ or is a 40’ x 80’ basement empire, this class will have something for you. If you are still in the planning stages of your layout, you will also learn about designing a layout with operations in mind.
Throughout the class sessions, you’ll learn about how prototype rail companies organize and operate their railroads. We will talk about applying aspects of real railroading to your modeling so that you can add a new sense of realism to your layout.
We’ll also cover several examples of an operating session, following specific trains as they switch out an industry or make their way over the railroad. Additional resources included with the class will help you set up an operating session for your own railroad, such as blank train orders, car rosters and switch lists, and track authority forms.
Operations can be an intimidating aspect of the hobby to get started in, but this class will give you an excellent platform to get started, or continue to build on if you have already applied some aspects of operation to your existing railroad.
In addition to your video instruction, you’ll get a helpful Class Guide PDF that you can print out and use as a reference as you plan for, and incorporate, realistic operational functions into your layout, as well as several downloadable resources that will help you manage your operations like an actual railroad.
NOTE: You’ll receive this Class video instruction in two forms: As on-demand streaming video (in your MRA Account); and as a physical DVD, mailed to you.
Download and print this detailed supplement as a reference for the key aspects of realistic railroad operations
Check out this Sample Work Order Form to see the details you can document for your train
To see a blank Work Order Form that you could use, download and print this PDF
See this Sample Roster Switch List to see the details that you can document for your train
To see a blank Work Order Form that you could use, download and print this PDF
Use this Track Authority Form to document realistic movement of your train
See this schematic as an example of how to layout your railroad yard
Download this short video to meet your class instructor, Josh Clark
Bonus materials available after purchase
Purchase class and add to your personal library with on-demand video access.
Realistic Model Railroad Operations Class + DVD
with Josh Clark