ScaleTrains & The Scenic City Express with Shane Wilson

What does it take to bring the NMRA National Convention to your backyard? That's one of the questions we asked of Tennessean and ScaleTrains President Shane Wilson as he provided an inside look at the excitement building around the 2026 NMRA National Convention, coming for the first time in 90 years to Chattanooga, Tennessee. Shane tells us how the idea took shape, the massive effort behind the bid, and the powerful role ScaleTrains played in making it all happen—from grassroots organizing to major marketing pushes across the country. Shane also shares how visitors to Chattanooga will be able to interact with the ScaleTrains team at their facility, at the Chattanooga Convention Center and on the rails too!

Check out the wide selection of products and book your ride on the Summerville Steam Special on ScaleTrains’ website:
https://www.scaletrains.com/

Make plans to attend the 2026 NMRA National Convention:
nmra2026.org

Don’t miss the National Train Show at the 2026 NMRA National Convention:
nationaltrainshow.org

Show your support for the Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum:
https://www.tvrail.com/

Thank you to our episode sponsor, ScaleSigns.com:
https://scalesigns.com/

Thank you to our episode sponsor, Oak Hill Model Railroad Track Supply:
https://ohrtracksupply.com/

Thank you to our episode sponsor, Tully Models:
https://tullymodels.com/

Episode Released July 6, 2026