Michael Roberts

Michael Roberts

Senior Railway Content Specialist
Expert in model railroading and train simulation gaming with 15 years of publication experience.

Areas of Expertise

Model Railroad Construction

Advanced techniques in layout planning, benchwork, and trackwork for all scales

Train Simulation Gaming

Expert analysis of Railroader game mechanics, mods, and realistic operation

Digital Command Control

DCC system installation, programming, and advanced automation techniques

Scenic Detailing

Professional weathering, landscape creation, and realistic model finishing

Education & Qualifications

  • Master of Arts in Transportation History
    Railway Heritage Institute, 2015

    Thesis: The Evolution of Model Railroading in Digital Age

  • Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering
    State Technical University, 2010

    Magna Cum Laude

  • Professional Certifications
    National Model Railroad Association Master Model Railroader (NMRA MMR), 2018

    National Model Railroad Association

Recent Publications

  • Digital Control Systems in Modern Model Railroading
    Model Railroad Quarterly, Vol. 45 No. 3
    2023

    Comprehensive analysis of DCC implementation in home layouts

  • Realistic Weathering Techniques for Rolling Stock
    Scale Model Railroader, Vol. 38 No. 2
    2022

    Step-by-step guide to professional weathering methods

  • Train Simulation Gaming Evolution 2010-2024
    Digital Gaming Review, Vol. 12 No. 4
    2024

    Historical analysis of train simulation games including Railroader

Awards & Recognition

  • Excellence in Model Railroad Journalism
    Model Railroad Press Association, 2023

    Recognition for outstanding contribution to hobby journalism

  • Best Layout Documentation Series
    Railway Modelers Guild, 2022

    Award for comprehensive layout building tutorial series

  • Digital Innovation in Hobby Media
    Hobby Publishers Network, 2021

    Recognition for integrating modern gaming with traditional hobbies

Professional Experience

  • Senior Content Editor
    Model Railroad Enthusiast Magazine, 2018-2023

    Led editorial team covering model railroading techniques and product reviews

  • Gaming Reviewer
    Train Sim Central, 2015-2018

    Reviewed train simulation games and produced video tutorials

  • Layout Design Consultant
    Custom Model Railroads Inc, 2012-2015

    Designed custom model railroad layouts for private collectors

Articles by Michael Roberts