Episode 28 - Behind the Transit Logistics That Built Calgary’s LRT System with Lorne Fleming

In this heartwarming episode, Bryndis sits down with Lorne Fleming, whose career journey spans the Royal Canadian Air Force, Calgary Transit, and the very beginnings of Calgary’s LRT system. After leaving the military, Lorne wanted to continue in a role that focused on serving, so he found his way into transit, where he began as a trolley and bus driver. His understanding of city routes, complex transit technology, and community needs positioned him perfectly for the next chapter: training new operators.

Lorne’s stories illuminate the often unseen logistics and human effort behind a system millions now rely on. He shares vivid stories of trolleybus operations, the challenges of overhead wire systems, and the problem solving required to navigate a growing city. His anecdotes include everything from sparking wires in winter hoarfrost to the delicate dance of avoiding power overloads on steep hills. As Calgary prepared for the arrival of the LRT, a serendipitous meeting at a bus rodeo led Lorne and his colleague Gene into becoming Calgary’s first LRT trainers. 

This episode is more than transit history; it’s a celebration of humour, service, learning, collaboration, and the pride of building something that shaped an entire city for decades.