The CR&E normally operates quarterly with a group of 8-10 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.  Beginning in about 2006 on Version 1, we started running 6-hour sessions instead of 4-hour sessions.  These are basically two 3-hour sessions with a lunch break.  Some people stay all day and others only attend either the morning or afternoon session.  This opens up a few operating slots.

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. 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.  I view operating sessions as "serious fun."  I like the mood of the session to be reasonably serious so we can accomplish our realistic operating goals, but I also want people to be comfortable and have fun.  I want people to come back!  We do our share of joking around during a session, but the crew generally knows the limits to prevent the session from falling apart from too much levity.

Our crew is comprised of a trainmaster who oversees the session (generally me), a dispatcher for each shift, a yardmaster and yard crew for each shift, and up to six 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 simplex 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 computerized Centralized Traffic Control and some verbal Track Warrant Control.  Most of the railroad is fully signaled, but branch lines are "dark territory."

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.