More than history, more than machines - Ladies of Steam is a movement, built by those who refuse to let steam, or the women who run it, be forgotten.
How It Started
Like many great ideas, Ladies of Steam began with a friendship and a conversation. Co-founders Nicole and Jennifer realized during a steam show weekend how much better the hobby felt when they had another woman by their side, someone to swap stories with, cheer each other on, and share the kinds of challenges only women in a male-dominated hobby truly understand.
What started as a simple Facebook page quickly gained international attention. It became a place for women from all over the country and the world to connect, celebrate their accomplishments, and show the next generation of ladies that yes, they belong here too.
Jen and Nicole boldly stepped out to create something bigger than themselves, each bringing heart, grit, and vision to the movement. Jen, a clinical psychologist, continues to be a fierce advocate for women, with her compassion and steadfast loyalty to Ladies of Steam leaving a lasting mark on its mission and continued legacy.
Today, Nicole carries the torch as the sole owner of Ladies of Steam, honoring those early days while steering the movement into the future.
Meet Lady of Steam, Nicole!
Steam runs deep in Nicole's veins. She attended her first steam show at just 11 months old and grew up with a spark in her heart for these powerful machines. With over 20 years of hands-on experience, Nicole has fired, operated, maintained, and restored engines, including her pride, a 1919 16HP Minneapolis steam traction engine that is being restored. She even designed her own replacement boiler, blending old world craftsmanship with modern problem-solving to ASME, American Society of Mechanical Engineers, standards.
But this story isn’t just about machines. It’s about people. Nicole knows what it feels like to be told this isn’t for you, that steam was a boys’ hobby and she didn’t belong. For a long time, speaking up felt risky. Thankfully, mentors, supportive teachers, faith, and a determined spirit reminded her that her passions were placed there for a reason and her voice mattered. Those struggles shaped her heart for others walking a similar road, because rather than let bitterness take root, she chose to build something better.
Ladies of Steam was born from a desire to create a space where women could be seen, supported, and empowered in a hobby and history too often overlooked. What started as a small idea quickly grew into a movement, connecting women from all walks of life. It’s a reminder that preserving history isn’t just about the old iron, but about the people who keep them running. Nicole reflects on how steam engines mirror life. They seem complicated at first, but with patience, attention, and a steady hand, you realize they’re simpler than you think. And everyone deserves the chance to take the throttle!
When she isn’t restoring engines or supporting farmers and ranchers through her work as an Agricultural Engineer, Nicole appreciates creativity. She believes painting and pinstriping engines belongs in the shop right alongside grit and grime. Every project, every connection, every conversation is a reminder that this hobby is bigger than machines. It’s about community, encouragement, and faith. There’s a place here for everyone.
"Be on your guard; stand firm in the faith; be courageous; be strong. Do everything in love." 1 Corinthians 16:13-14
Thank You!
Behind every determined woman is someone who believed in her. We want to express our heartfelt thanks to all the moms, mentors, and encouragers who have supported Ladies of Steam and so many others along the way. And a special thanks to Jean and Clara. A mother’s encouragement, a mentor’s wisdom, and a friend’s belief can make all the difference in a world. To our moms, mentors, and every supporter, thank you for lighting the way and cheering us on.