Combining Prototype Modeling With Ops: 2026 St. Louis RPM Preview

Combining Prototype Modeling With Ops: 2026 St. Louis RPM Preview

From Around The Layout - A Model Railroad Podcast by Ray Arnott

July 9, 2026 · 50 min · Episode 248

About this episode

The episode discusses the intersection of prototype modeling and operations in model railroading, featuring insights from key figures in the community.

What does operations have to do with prototype modeling? Lonnie Bathurst, organizer of the St. Louis Railroad Prototype Modelers (RPM) Meet, and Rick Watson, President of the Operations Special Interest Group (OPSIG), stop by the ATLP studio for a deep dive into the 2026 St. Louis RPM. This year, the nation's largest RPM meet puts the spotlight on “Operation - The Key to Modeling Your Prototype.” The panel explores how prototypical operations enhance realism, modeling, community, and the next generation of railroad hobbyists and how both organizations combined to teach the community how they can bring both aspects together. Learn more about this episode on our website: aroundthelayout.com/248 This episode of Around The Layout is Powered By Rapido Trains: https://rapidotrains.com/ Thank you to our episode sponsor, Spring Creek Model Trains: https://www.springcreekmodeltrains.com/ Thank you to our episode sponsor, NarrowThrottle by Scott Thornton: https://narrowthrottle.square.site/ Visit our website at aroundthelayout.com Become a member of our Operating Crew for chances to win and much more! aroundthelayout.com/crew Around The Layout Podcast is a production of Thirty Five…

Sponsors

Rapido Trains, Spring Creek Model Trains, NarrowThrottle by Scott Thornton

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