BRIGHTLINE & SCOUTING AMERICA COUNCILS PARTNER TO INSPIRE FUTURE RAILROAD PROFESSIONALS

Miami, FL (September 22, 2026) — In recognition of Rail Safety Week, Brightline announced a partnership with Scouting America's South Florida Council and Central Florida Council to host a special Railroading Merit Badge Day on October 17, 2026, providing Scouts with an immersive experience focused on railroad operations, transportation careers and rail safety.

 

The event will welcome Scouts from across South and Central Florida for a unique opportunity to learn directly from Brightline team members and industry professionals while completing requirements for the Railroading Merit Badge. Participants will gain insight into the history of rail transportation, modern passenger rail operations, railroad careers and the critical importance of rail safety.

 

"Rail Safety Week is an important reminder that awareness and education save lives," said Ashley Blasewitz, Brightline spokesperson. "By partnering with Scouting America, we're helping young people develop a deeper understanding of rail transportation while reinforcing safe behaviors around railroad tracks and crossings. We hope this experience also sparks interest in the next generation of transportation and infrastructure professionals."

 

Throughout the day, Scouts will participate in educational sessions, interactive discussions and firsthand learning experiences designed to fulfill merit badge requirements while promoting responsible rail safety practices. The program will also highlight how passenger rail contributes to economic growth, mobility and sustainability throughout Florida.

 

"Scouting America is committed to providing youth with meaningful opportunities to explore careers, develop practical skills and engage with their communities," said Daniel Penny III, Central Florida Council, Scout Leader. "This partnership with Brightline offers Scouts a rare opportunity to learn about a vital industry while earning a merit badge that connects history, technology and public safety."

 

The announcement comes during Rail Safety Week, an annual nationwide initiative dedicated to educating communities about safe behaviors around railroad tracks, crossings and trains. Brightline remains committed to promoting rail safety through year-round public awareness campaigns, community engagement and partnerships across Florida.

 

The Railroading Merit Badge Day will take place on Saturday, October 17, originating at both the Orlando station and the MiamiCentral station, making the initiative accessible to Troops throughout the corridor. Troops interested in participating should contact their local Scouting America Council for registration information or visit https://infinitycoe.com/resources. 

 

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ABOUT BRIGHTLINE

Brightline seamlessly connects travelers to top destinations and major events between Central and South Florida with stations in Miami, Aventura, Fort Lauderdale, Boca Raton, West Palm Beach, and Orlando. The company offers a hospitality-centric experience designed to reinvent train travel at a comparable price to driving or flying. Brightline is recognized as one of TIME100’s Most Influential Companies, one of the World’s 50 Most Innovative by Fast Company and one of the fastest-growing private companies in the Southeast by Inc. The company focuses on city pairs that are too close to fly and too long to drive. Construction is currently underway to connect Las Vegas to Southern California. For more information, visit  www.gobrightline.com and follow us on Facebook, Instagram, and X.

 

ABOUT SCOUTING AMERICA

Scouting America provides youth with programs that develop character, leadership, citizenship and personal fitness through hands-on learning and adventure. Through merit badge programs and community partnerships, Scouts gain practical skills and explore potential career pathways.

 

MEDIA CONTACTS

Ashley Blasewitz, Brightline, ashley.blasewitz@gobrightline.com

Michael Hicks, Brightline, mhicks@bltrain.com