CUMBERLAND — Western Maryland Scenic Railroad is the first railroad in the United States to earn the International Board of Credentialing and Continuing Education Standards Autism Certification.
The milestone marks a commitment to creating an inclusive and welcoming environment for all passengers, especially those with autism and sensory processing disorders.
The IBCCES Autism Certification is awarded to organizations that meet rigorous standards in providing a supportive and understanding experience for individuals with autism. This certification process includes specialized training for staff, the development of sensory-friendly accommodations and the implementation of best practices to ensure a comfortable journey for guests with autism and their families.
“The wheels are constantly turning on how we can work together to provide the best experience for individuals and families visiting Western Maryland. We recognize that each person has unique needs, and by obtaining training in sensory-friendly strategies for people with autism, we can make each visitor as comfortable as possible. Ultimately, our goal is to provide quality family experiences and to be a business that is inclusive of all people, regardless of disability or diagnosis,” said Tina Beal, events manager at WMSR. This certification represents our genuine commitment to making our services accessible and enjoyable for all. We are honored to lead the way in creating a more inclusive and understanding travel experience.
Key features of the IBCCES Autism Certification include:
• Staff training: Comprehensive training for all WMSR team members to recognize and understand the needs of passengers with autism, equipping them with strategies to offer exceptional service.
• Sensory-friendly accommodations: Adjustments to the train environment, including reduced noise levels and flexible seating arrangements, to accommodate sensory sensitivities.
• Customized resources: Development of materials and resources designed to support families, including pre-visit information and sensory guides to help prepare for the journey.
• Ongoing support and evaluation: Continuous assessment and feedback mechanisms to ensure that the needs of passengers with autism are consistently met and improved upon.
This certification aligns with WMSR’s mission to enrich the community through memorable and inclusive experiences, and it reaffirms the railroad’s dedication to offering a diverse range of accessible and enjoyable experiences for all travelers.