The CR&E  operates with a group of 6-8 regular crew members, many of which have seniority back to 1996 when it all started.  New crew members are added occasionally, but the challenge is always to maintain a manageable crew size so the layout isn't crowded and so people don't have to stand around waiting a long time for assignments.  Sessions typically last about four hours and represent two eight-hour shifts.  

Although a 4:1 fast clock is used for reference, trains are generally called in sequence as crews become available.  The beginning of an operating session can be hectic, so crew calls are spaced out initially so as to not overload the railroad or the dispatcher. We tend to start a session about where we left off, so trains can be found in various places on the road at the beginning and end of a session.  Off-duty crews are permitted to be in the railroad rooms observing or socializing with others.  With a limited crew size, it doesn't get too crowded and everyone seems to stay rather focused.  Our goal is to operate the railroad realistically, but to be able to socialize and have fun at the same time.

Our crew is comprised of a trainmaster who oversees the session (generally me), a dispatcher and Lewisburg Yardmaster  for each shift, and several train crews.  We'll sometimes double people up on assignments, but generally each person serves as a train crew.   The assignments for train crews include local trains, mine shifters, merchandise trains, coal and empty trains, and pusher operations.

Crews use Digitrax throttles (corded or  radio) to run their trains.  They communicate with the dispatcher, who sits in another room away from the railroad, via FRS headset radios.  The dispatcher controls traffic using the CATS computerized Centralized Traffic Control (designed by Rodney Black) and some verbal Track Warrant Control.  The mainline is fully signaled with CTC, but branch lines are "dark territory" dispatched verbally. 

Occasionally there are opportunities for guest operators.  Sometimes special sessions are held for organized operating events such as NC RailRun or for groups of people who cannot attend on a regular basis. 

The following through trains operate regularly on the CR&E.  These trains are supplemented by coal and empty trains (extras) that run as needed.