President - Prairie Rail Solutions

Organization Details
Organization Name: The Vintage Locomotive Society Inc.
Address: 64099 Prairie Dog Trail
R.M. of Rosser MB  R3G 3N4
Website: http://pdcrailway.com
Organizational Description: The Vintage Locomotive Society Inc. (VLS) is a not-for-profit, volunteer-driven organization dedicated to preserving and operating Canada's railway heritage. Established in 1968, VLS owns and oversees the Prairie Dog Central Railway, one of the oldest regularly operating vintage railways in North America.

The Society's mandate is threefold:

Preservation - Restoring and maintaining historic locomotives, railcars, and infrastructure for future generations.

Operation - Running safe, scheduled heritage train excursions that bring history to life for the public.

Community Engagement - Providing a meaningful volunteer experience for individuals of all ages and skill levels while fostering Manitoba pride and tourism.

VLS is governed by a volunteer Board of Directors that provides strategic oversight, financial stewardship, and long-term planning. Day-to-day operations are carried out by management staff and supported by more than 100 volunteers who contribute their time and expertise across multiple areas including train crew, maintenance, restoration, event coordination, and guest services.

Prairie Dog Central Railway (PDCR)

The Prairie Dog Central Railway is a living museum on rails, offering unique heritage train excursions from Inkster Junction Station to rural Manitoba communities such as Grosse Isle and beyond. Featuring historic steam locomotive No. 3 (built in 1882) and vintage passenger coaches from the early 1900s, the PDCR provides guests with an authentic railway experience that combines history, tourism, and community.

The railway operates a full seasonal schedule of excursions, charters, and special events such as themed rides, holiday trains, and partnerships with rural communities. These activities support local tourism, generate economic impact in the region, and provide an immersive cultural experience for families, tourists, and rail enthusiasts.

Volunteers are essential to the Prairie Dog Central's success, serving in roles such as engineers, conductors, firemen, brakemen, car attendants, track crew, and restoration specialists. The railway offers meaningful volunteer opportunities where individuals can learn new skills, connect with like-minded people, and play an active part in preserving Manitoba's railway heritage.

In Summary:
The Vintage Locomotive Society and Prairie Dog Central Railway provide a unique opportunity for Manitobans to engage in heritage preservation, tourism, and community service. Volunteers not only keep the trains running - they also ensure that a vital piece of Canadian history remains alive, accessible, and inspiring for generations to come.
Volunteer Opportunity Details
Volunteer Opportunity ID: 6024
   
Description of Duties:

The President of Prairie Rail Solutions is the volunteer leader of the organization, responsible for guiding strategy, governance, and oversight of operations. Key duties include:




  • Providing overall leadership and direction for PRS in alignment with its mission and values.



  • Chairing Board of Directors' meetings, ensuring productive discussions and effective decision-making.



  • Serving as the primary spokesperson and representative of PRS to stakeholders, community partners, and government agencies.



  • Supporting the General Manager and management team through mentorship, oversight, and accountability.



  • Ensuring compliance with corporate bylaws, the Manitoba Corporations Act, and regulatory obligations.



  • Fostering a positive, collaborative culture among directors, volunteers, and operational staff.



  • Leading fundraising, advocacy, and public engagement efforts where appropriate.


   
Skills Required:


  • Strong leadership and governance experience.



  • Knowledge of rail, logistics, or transportation industries is an asset.



  • Ability to build consensus and manage diverse viewpoints.



  • Public speaking and relationship-building skills with stakeholders, clients, and community leaders.



  • Strategic thinking and problem-solving capabilities.



  • Familiarity with nonprofit/for-profit governance principles.


   
Skills Gained/Related Careers:


  • High-level governance and leadership experience.



  • Expanded network in rail, supply chain, and government sectors.



  • Hands-on experience balancing corporate oversight with community-based operations.



  • Crisis management and decision-making skills in real-world scenarios.



  • Deeper understanding of short line rail operations and infrastructure management.





  • Executive Director / CEO



  • General Manager



  • Board Chairperson



  • Public Policy Advisor



  • Senior Operations or Logistics Executive



  • Community or Economic Development Leader


   
Age: 31-54, 55+
Time Commitment:
Daytime
Evening
Location of volunteer opportunity: Central
- Rosser
Does opportunity require a criminal record check? No
Does opportunity require a child abuse registry check? No
Opportunity is available to candidates that: General Populace
Organization will provide: A letter of reference
Training/Orientation
How to Apply:
Closing Date: Dec 1, 2025

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