CR BT Dispr Wrote:
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> There are probably a few more people like me who
> hope that the school has a technology or shop
> program and a history department staff that will
> take full advantage of (a hopefully
> more-than-willing) EBT that's literally on their
> front doorstep. Field trips to the EBT shops - via
> train, of course - first-hand demonstrations with
> hands-on participation of what-makes-it-work of
> all kinds, from firing a loco to machining to
> building/repairing rail/industrial equipment.
> Bridge technology, railroad technology,
> technological development - all kinds of good
> stuff if the right people with the right attitude
> can come together. Anything less would be a real
> tragedy with such an opportunity at hand. There
> was this Scranton
> [url=https://trn.trains.com/news/news-wire/2016/10
> /12-steam-education]STEM technology[/url] program
> more recently and that NJ high school hands-on
> steam program back in the 80s as good precedent.
> Good luck!
I am involved with the Pichi Richi Railway Preservation Society here in South Australia, we are in a remote area (think like Chama), with minimal local work opportunities but still a largish population base and an area school, a lot of students attend from remote outback areas.
Some years ago, a PRR member who was also a teacher at the school kick started a program where kids could be involved in classes that used our railway and workshops as training grounds for future work outside of the community, such as carpentry, concreting, mechanical and electrical work, paving, painting etc. Also fundamental training in working with heights, dangerous and hazardous goods etc, working safely and work safety and probably most importantly, basic structured working requirements such a regulated working day with start, finish and meal break times etc.
The kids have benefited from having an early understanding of what is expected of them when they enter the workforce, some early training to help them along (they gain a recognised certificate) and the railway gain from local goodwill for the work we do and the kids actually do stuff that benefits the railway as well.
Also good luck from Australia and hope for a rosy future!
Wayne from Oz
