“What seems complex at first often reveals its simplicity with patience, persistence and heart. Life, like a steam engine, was made for you to open the throttle.” - Nicole
ABMA Boiler Expo with WIBI
Steam, Sisters, and Success: Join Ladies of Steam at the 2026 ABMA BOILER Expo in Nashville!
We are so excited to share some big news! This spring, the Ladies of Steam will be heading to the ABMA BOILER Expo to bridge the gap between our beloved hobby heritage and the modern industrial world.
Three Ladies of Steam will be joined by several incredible members of our community for the Women in the Boiler Industry (WIBI) Panel & Luncheon. We’ll be sharing our stories, from my (Nicole) 20 years restoring steam traction engines to designing modern replacement boilers to ASME standards, and discussing how a diverse workforce is the key to a vibrant future for the boiler industry. Julie Collins, the locomotive engineer, from Dollywood will be sharing her experience behind the scenes. And, Lilly Wahl, a motived young lady who has grown up around steam engines and started restoring her own traction engine at just 13 years old.
To our fellow "Ladies of Steam" and our many male allies who support us: this event is for all of you. Whether you are a licensed operator, an engineer, or a dedicated steam enthusiast, your presence helps strengthen this community.
Exclusive Promo Codes for Our Followers
We want to make sure as many of you as possible can join us, so there are two special offers for our community:
- Free Expo Only Entry: Use code LOS$FREE for a FREE Expo Only Registration.
- All-Access Savings: Use code LOS$VIP for $100 OFF an All-Access Registration (required to attend the WIBI Luncheon!). Make sure to register by February 28th to save! Late registration begins March 1st!
Why You Should Join Us:
- The WIBI Panel & Luncheon: A dedicated space for women and allies to celebrate successes and find inspiration for the future of the boiler industry.
- Networking: Connect with industry leaders and fellow enthusiasts who are paving the way for the next generation.
- Hands-On Innovation: See the latest in boiler technology and heritage preservation.
Event Details:
- What: WIBI Panel & Luncheon at the 2026 ABMA BOILER Expo.
- Access: The Luncheon is available to all attendees with All-Access passes.
The boiler industry is changing, and I am honored to help lead the conversation alongside our sisters and allies in steam. I can’t wait to see you there!
University of Rollag
Ladies of Steam Scholarship Opportunity
🔥 We are funding two scholarships for the University of Rollag.
📅 June 19-21, 2026
📍 WMSTR in Rollag, MN
The 2026 scholarships are already full; however, interested in a steam school near you? Contact us to apply.
The Farmerettes at Waueson
Ladies Threshing Demonstration
📅 Friday, June 26, 2026 at 11:00AM
📍 National Threshers Assn Wauseon, OH
Starting in 1917, the Woman's Land Army of America brought more than 20,000 city and town women to rural America to take over farm work after men were called to war. The food supply was vital and crops could not go unharvested. Women were paid the same wages as men and soon ditched bulky dresses for scandalous trousers! Join with us with Babes on Boilers at NTA to celebrate women with a threshing demonstration!
Western MN Steam Threshers Reunion
Join us for an exclusive Women Teaching Women Steam gathering during Labor Day Weekend!
📅 Saturday, Sept. 5, 2026
🕠 4:30 PM – 5:30 PM
📍 Near the Blue Water Tower, Rollag, MN
Fuel your skills, lift each other up, and celebrate Ladies of Steam at the place where it all started! Want to show your Ladies of Steam pride at the event, order your gear in advance.
James Valley Threshing Show
Women Teaching Women Steam at James Valley Threshing Show
📅 Saturday, September 12th, 2026
🕚 11:00 AM – 12:00 PM
📍 By the Main Gate, James Valley Threshing Show
Connect with fellow Ladies of Steam and learn side-by-side in this empowering event. Home of the 150HP Case! Wear your Ladies of Steam shirts loud and proud at this event.
Steam-O-Roma
Women Teaching Women Steam at Ozark Steam Engine Association
📅 Saturday, September 19th, 2026
🕚 3:30 - 4:30pm
📍 Halltown, MO
Join us for an exclusive Women Teaching Women Steam Event in the Ozarks of Missouri! Meet several incredible Ladies of Steam who are passionate about keeping the history of steam alive!
PLUS! You will have the opportunity to get your photo on the World's Largest Steam Engine, the 150HP Case.
Grab your Ladies of Steam gear ahead of time for this event!
Wisconsin Steam School
Ladies of Steam Scholarship Opportunity
📅 Sept 25-27, 2026
📍 North Central Steam and Gas Engine Club in Edgar, WI
Please see link below for more details.
East Broad Top
East Broad Top Railroad x Ladies of Steam!
📅 October 10, 2026
🚂 A steam-powered day at East Broad Top Railroad, take a step back in time and learn about steam locomotives and traction engines at one location!
Join us at East Broad Top Railroad for an unforgettable hands on event!
🎟️ Limited Seats! Get your tickets before they are gone!
Join The Ladies of Steam and the EBT Foundation, Inc. for a hands‑on educational event celebrating steam preservation, traction engines, and boiler heritage. This program is dedicated to empowering women in steam preservation and related trades.
What You'll Learn About And Do:
- Basics of historic steam traction‑engine operation, with guided, hands‑on experience operating a vintage traction engine with The Ladies of Steam
- History and significance of the 1916 No. 16 Baldwin Locomotive — the first of six to be restored steam locomotives placed into service at the East Broad Top
- Ride on the East Broad Top powered by No. 16 and receive a commemorative photo
Logistics and Cost:
- Price: $150 per person
- Capacity: Limited to 40 participants (to ensure hands‑on experiential learning)
- Sponsor: M.J. Miller Agriculture Heritage Fund at the Community Foundation for the Alleghenies
What's included
- Train Excursion behind Steam Locomotive #16
- Classroom-style instruction and hands-on training
- Boxed Lunch
- Commemorative photo and an East Broad Top hat for each participant
- Opportunity to purchase additional merchandise on site
What's not included
- Guided tours of the EBT National Historic Landmark
- Rockhill Trolley Museum Admission
Itinerary
10:00am to 1:30pm
Classroom instruction, hands-on training, and lunch break
2:30pm to 3:30pm
Northbound Colgate Grove Excursion behind Steam Locomotive #16
Highlights
Limited to 40 participants (to ensure hands‑on experiential learning)