Expand your knowledge and fuel your passion for railroading! Our 2026 clinics bring together talented clinicians sharing insights on everything from prototype railways to modeling skills and creative techniques. These engaging presentations run all weekend as part of the Waterloo Rail Expo, and unlimited clinic access is included with your show admission. Check back often as more speakers and clinic times will be announced soon!
Clinicians
Neil Schofield
“Modelling the CPR in Vermont”
Neil Schofield’s presentation will focus on his current layout including the prototype operations during the 1970’s and 1980’s and how he’s tried to reproduce those operations in his basement. The presentation will include both prototype photographs as well as model photos including a layout photo tour.
Read Neil’s bio here
Neil is a lifelong model railroader thanks to interest and support from his father, Ray Schofield. From his early childhood railfan memories, he took a liking to New England railroads, including the Boston & Maine, Central Vermont, Conrail, and later CP Rail as well. That interest expanded to other northeast railroads through the 1980’s with a particular interest in Vermont railroads and operations on the Connecticut River Line. His earliest modeling efforts were inspired by articles by the likes of Scott Hartley and Benjamin Bachman, among others. After graduating from college in the mid 90’s, Neil settled in central Massachusetts and after several previous layouts, he started on his current Newport and Lyndonville subdivision layout in 2015 focusing on CP Rail’s Vermont operations circa 1980. He’s now 11 years into the layout and enjoying regular operating sessions and looking for a second job to support his locomotive and rolling stock obsession thanks to manufacturers like Rapido, Bowser, and Tangent Scale models. He often posts about his layout in his blog on Model Railroad Hobbyist and shares railfan videos through his Youtube channel, NRS8400.
Matt Herman
Matt Herman is a longtime model railroad industry professional and the founder of 3D Central, a company producing high-quality 3D printed products in all scales. He works with OEMs and independent designers to develop kits, source parts, and provide printing and drop-shipping services, helping bring new model railroad products to market.
James Eager
“Toronto Harbour Commission Railway”
Jim Eager’s presentation will focus on the Portlands lines of the Toronto Harbour Commission Railway (operated jointly by CN and CP), the lineside industries they once serviced, and how these lines could be adapted to a model layout.
Jim has authored two books: Rio Grande Color Guide to Freight & Passenger Equipment and Western Pacific Color Guide to Freight & Passenger Equipment, in addition to writing several articles for Railroad Model Craftsman magazine.
Kaitlyn Leis
“Lessons From Inside a Steam Boiler”
In this presentation Kaitlyn Leis will be sharing the story of how her childhood passion became a career and talking about her experiences with steam locomotive restoration.
Kaitlyn developed a passion for railways at an early age after experiencing historic steam locomotives and model trains firsthand. Fascinated by both the history and mechanics of railroading, she has pursued hands-on learning in restoration work, operations, and railway technology.