STEAM RAILROADING INSTITUTE WELCOMES NEW EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

Owosso, MI – The Steam Railroading Institute (SRI) is pleased to announce the appointment of Ashley Deming as its new Executive Director. With an extensive background in museum leadership, heritage preservation, and public programming, Deming brings a wealth of experience and energy to the Institute as it looks toward an exciting future of growth and innovation.

Deming joins SRI following a decade of service as Director of Education & Programs at the Michigan Maritime Museum in South Haven, MI, where she was instrumental in expanding public engagement and educational outreach. Her career in heritage and historical interpretation spans both land and sea—beginning with a B.A. in Anthropology from Western Michigan University and a M.A. in Maritime Archaeology and History from the University of Bristol in England.

Her professional journey includes time as an underwater archaeologist for the State of South Carolina, as well as extensive museum and academic work both in the U.S. and the U.K. Deming’s deep commitment to experiential learning and historical preservation aligns with SRI’s mission to educate the public about the importance of steam-era railroading through operation, preservation, and hands-on experiences.

“Ashley’s leadership and multidisciplinary background make her uniquely suited to guide SRI into its next chapter,” said the SRI Board President, Michael Burgett. “Her passion for education, community engagement, and historical preservation will be vital as we enhance our programming and continue to preserve the legacy of Michigan’s railroading past.”

Current Executive Director Dean Pyers added, “As I move into retirement, I’m extremely pleased to welcome Ashley to Owosso as the next Executive Director of SRI. With her background in preserving and interpreting historic transportation artifacts, I’m looking forward to seeing what she and our entire team of volunteers and staff at SRI will accomplish in future years. My compliments to our Board and the Non-Profit Network for conducting a very thorough and successful search process.”

Deming expressed her excitement about joining the SRI team. “I am honored to step into this role and help shape the next phase of the Steam Railroading Institute’s journey. The intersection of history, storytelling, and hands-on experience is where I thrive—and I see immense opportunity to build on SRI’s strong foundation to create even more impactful connections with the public. While my work has largely focused on maritime heritage, the heart of it has always been about transportation history and the people and stories that move it forward. I’m thrilled to now help do that on steel rails.”

Ashley will begin her career at SRI on November 1st, and both Dean and Ashley will work through a transition phase during the North Pole Express season until the end of this year.

As Executive Director, Deming will lead strategic planning, development, and operations for the Institute, ensuring its continued role as a premier destination for steam railroading preservation and education in the Midwest.