Steam Railroading Institute names Randy Paquette interim director in Owosso

The Steam Railroading Institute has appointed Randy Paquette as its interim executive director, the Owosso-based nonprofit announced in a statement posted to its website on July 29.

The appointment follows the resignation of Executive Director Ashley Deming, according to the announcement. The Institute's board of directors "expressed its sincere appreciation for Deming's service and contributions to the organization and wishes her continued success in her future endeavors," the statement said.

Paquette is one of the founding members of the Michigan State Trust for Railway Preservation, the organization formed to save and restore the Pere Marquette 1225 while the locomotive was owned by and located on the campus of Michigan State University, the announcement said. That organization eventually became the Steam Railroading Institute.

According to the statement, Paquette retired as senior director of design and construction at Wayne State University, where he led campus planning, capital improvement and construction work. He holds a Master of Business Administration from the Eli Broad College of Business and a Bachelor of Science in electrical engineering from Michigan State University.

"Randy's appointment represents both a return to our roots and an exciting opportunity to build for the future," said Mike Burgett, president of the Steam Railroading Institute board of directors, in the announcement. Burgett said Paquette's understanding of the mission and his experience managing large-scale projects make him "uniquely qualified to guide the Institute through this transition."

Paquette said in the statement that serving the organization "is truly an honor" and pointed to the work of the Institute's volunteers, members, donors, staff and supporters. He said he looked forward to "creating new opportunities for education, community engagement, and unforgettable experiences for future generations."

The Institute operates out of 405 S. Washington St. in Owosso and runs excursion programs centered on the Pere Marquette 1225.

What happens next

As interim executive director, Paquette will work with the board of directors, staff, volunteers, members and community partners, according to the announcement, which said the arrangement "provides continuity of leadership" while the organization positions itself for long-term success. The statement did not say when a permanent executive director would be named.