Behind the Throttle’s mission is to share the stories of railroaders and preserve their lessons for those who come next.
A little about me: My name is Max Harris and I like trains. I always have, and probably always will.
My fascination with railroads began at a young age, but I was mainly drawn to the connections that came from being trackside with my family, and later all the intriguing people I would meet as I began employment within the industry. As someone with a never-ending hunger for knowledge, and someone who loves asking questions, I saw quickly that what makes the world of railroading so special is the people. The idea of community that is woven into the fabric of the rail industry, both in a historic and modern sense, continues to throttle my passion for railroads. Further, the communities and subcultures that form along the right of way from enthusiasts of all ages brings the most authentic smile and warmth to me, and I feel is worth documenting.
In June of 2019 I had an idea of creating a platform where I could publish the stories and anecdotes that I had heard from all the circles of railroading I was beginning to interject myself into. A few months of planning later this blog was born. I worked hard to publish stories from coworkers, friends, and strangers alike for a few years, proud of each story and message it bore. I paused writing Behind the Throttle in 2021 for a variety of reasons but am beyond excited to bring the blog back in 2025. My hope is to continue sharing stories from positive figures in the community and give rise to ideas of encouragement, enthusiasm, and optimism. It’s our mission to share the stories of railroaders, give them the recognition they deserve, and further help pass this great industry down to the next generation.
The Behind the Throttle Team
Max Harris (left) is a life-long train enthusiast and passionate writer. He began his career in railroads at 16 years old and has worked for 5 railroads in different roles since. After completing his undergraduate studies in Pennsylvania, Max moved west and currently works for a nonprofit music foundation and the Durango and Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad. He hopes to see the historic railroad industry around for generations beyond his to enjoy, and for advancements in utilitarian railroad transportation alike. Outside of trains, Max loves music and enjoys serenading his neighbors with his drums, and spends as much time in the mountains as possible. Max founded Behind the Throttle in 2019 and continues to run and write the blog.
Jonah Collins (right) has loved trains since birth — his first word was “train” — and regularly travels far and wide in search for them. His experience includes two summers as an intern at the Nevada Northern Railway Museum, several years as a volunteer with the Richmond Railroad Museum, and served as editor for the first era of Behind the Throttle. A recent graduate of Virginia Tech (Go Hokies!), he resides in Roanoke, VA. Jonah serves as Behind the Throttle’s editor and Max’s personal spell check.
