The Need for Change

Both the railroad industry and the railroad preservation field face a recruitment crisis, particularly among young adults. While many railroads, museums, and nonprofits have some type of program to attract new employees or volunteers, most do not directly target millennials and Gen Z, which together comprise the vital demographic of ages 18 to 45. There exists a stark disconnect between the industry’s traditional messaging and the ways that younger generations access and absorb information, especially with regard to technology. As a result, railroads are often viewed as outdated, and the interest in railroading as a career or hobby that was present in the mid-20th century has not been perpetuated by today’s young adults. This disconnect and the resulting perception of ageism have turned railroading into an industry that will eventually become unsustainable from a personnel standpoint as current participants are not replaced with new recruits.

Next Generation Railroaders (NGR) is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization that aims to reverse this trend by employing modern technology to educate and connect next-generation railroaders with volunteer and career opportunities within the railroading and railroad preservation industries. NGR is committed to building interest in railroading and promoting inclusivity for all demographics. Learn more about the organization on the about page.