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Become a Motorperson
Becoming a motorperson is one of the most rewarding ways to support the preservation of Yakima's historic trolley system! As a motorperson, you will join a select group of highly trained and dedicated volunteers. Through careful study, practice, and experience, you can advance through the levels (Class C, Class B, Class A) and deepen your knowledge of electric railroad operations, becoming familiar with many types of equipment along the way.
Basic Requirements
While tremendously fun, being a motorperson is also physically and mentally demanding and comes with significant responsibilities. As a motorperson, you will be accountable for the safe operation of the trolleys, be on the front lines of our interaction with the public, and have an important obligation to treat the historic equipment with care.
The following minimum requirements are essential for the safe and effective performance of this volunteer position:
- Class A and Class B must be at least 21 years of age. Class C must be at least 16 years of age.
- Must have valid driver's license or learner's permit.
- Possess good judgement and ability to resolve unexpected or emergency situations.
- Pass all training and tests under supervision of two Class A motorpersons and sign agreement to abide by rules and responsibilities.
- Be physically capable of trolley operation and helping people board and exit the trolley.
- Possess good vision and good hearing.
- Have a friendly and professional demeanor and enjoy working with the public.
- Have knowledge of local history and trolley history and trivia.
- Use correct operating techniques to prevent wear and damage to the trolleys.
- Be a member in good standing of the Yakima Valley Trolleys and agree to the terms of the Volunteer Liability Waiver & Agreement.
Application & Certification Process
- Become a YVT Member in good standing
- Complete the Volunteer Motorperson Application Form
- If your application is approved, we will provide you with training and study materials so that you can begin preparing to become a motorperson
- Participate in in-person training with a Class A motorperson
- Pass a written test graded by two (2) Class A motorpersons
- Pass a practical test before two (2) Class A motorpersons
Note: Yakima Valley Trolleys reserves the right to deny any applicant at its sole discretion.
Qualifications and Classes of Motorpersons and Conductors
Class C
- May be a motorperson in training or may be a person who only wants to do conductor duties
- Motorpersons in training will have read the motorperson manual and received practical training in preparation for certification
- May only operate trolley under direct supervision of Class A or Class B motorpersons
- Requested to spend at least eight (8) hours on the maintenance of the trolleys or systems each year
- At least 16 years of age
Class B
- Is certified to operate the equipment being used
- Is able to help train Class C motorpersons
- Requested to spend at least eight (8) hours on the maintenance of the trolleys or systems each year
- Must participate in six (6) public round trips per year and be recertified by a Class A motorperson with a check run at the start of the new season
- At least 21 years of age
Class A
- Has five (5) years minimum experience as a Class B motorperson
- Is certified to operate all equipment
- Is able to train and certify Class B and Class C motorpersons
- Is responsible for certifying other Class A motorpersons
- Requested to spend at least eight (8) hours on the maintenance of the trolleys or systems each year
- At least 21 years of age