Crew

Matt became involved with LASTA in late 2004 when he learned about SP745’s and its crew’s radio troubles during a test run of the locomotive. Matt was successful in solving SP745’s radio equipment issues prior to the Bicentennial trip. Since then, he has continued to work on expanding and improving LASTA’s communication systems. Matt also helps maintain various electrical and electronic systems around the yard.

Matt currently works in the telecommunications industry, providing technical services for broadcast and the wireless data industry.

Gwen previously worked for the Jefferson Parish School System and the Jefferson Parish Department of Parks and Recreation. As the Information Specialist for Recreation, her duties included marketing, producing publications, managing team travel, photography and other areas of management.

Now retired, she volunteers time to LASTA as Secretary and Board member. She helps support the event concessions sales and the gift shop at most of our events.

Robert Riley serves as LASTA's Chief Operating Officer (COO). As COO, Mr. Riley will oversee day-to-day operations, implementing the organization's strategic plans. In addition, working closely with our crew members, he will prioritize our efforts to get LASTA to a new home and return SP 745 to service.

Robert has spent more than 20 years in the transportation industry and is currently the CEO of the CHICAGO, ROCK ISLAND & PACIFIC RAILROAD. 

Jacob has been a long-time volunteer and joined the Board in 2021. He is in charge of our crew training program and is currently employed by a local industrial railroad.

James is a licensed professional engineer and former senior nuclear reactor operator.

Jacques Dufrene joined LASTA in early 2020 and has recently taken on the Railroad Track Maintenance Supervisor role. This crucial position is responsible for safe and efficient operation in our yard. Over the years, he gained comprehensive knowledge in track maintenance, repair, and inspection techniques, making him an invaluable asset to the teams.

Jacques currently works as a locomotive engineer for Petroleum Services Corporation.

Ed Ernewein was one of the founding members of the Old Kenner Railway Association (OKRA) and was involved in the transfer of SP 745 from Audubon Park. Since retiring from the Federal Railway Administration official ( FRA ), Ed has assumed a greater role in operations and served on the LASTA Board from 2016-2019.

Since the early ’80s, Richard has been involved in the preservation of SP 745 and other historic railroad equipment.

Richard became acquainted with SP 745 when the locomotive was on static display at Audubon Park. Sometime in 1983 or 1984, he heard a rumor that the locomotive was going to be scrapped. Of course, he went straight to the park to protest. However, when he arrived, he found a group that was actually working to move and save the engine! It was then that he was hooked, and his energies turned toward assisting with the restoration effort.

His mechanical expertise has provided many valuable contributions to LASTA. He previously served as the Chief Mechanical Officer.  Richard also currently serves as the director of the Historic Railway Charitable Trust of Louisiana. 

LJ has been a long time LASTA volunteer. He currently works for a short-line railroad in the New Orleans area. 

Barry answered a call for volunteers in August 2003, becoming the LASTA equipment painter in support of the 2005 state tour. This included the refinishing and painting of the inside of the Jefferson car and the outside of all of the LASTA cars. He traveled with 745 for the first leg of the state tour.

Following this trip, he organized a number of the Steam Fests held at Audubon Park and coordinated 745 at Gretna Fest for many years. He is on the LASTA Board of Directors and is currently working on our collective effort to secure both a new home for 745 and funds for the engine rebuild.

Michael has been part of the LASTA crew for several years and has played several roles including coordinating and taking photos at events and assisting with work around the LASTA yard. He is serving as Director of Marketing and Public Outreach to help spread the message of the organization's mission.