Peter A. Hansen, the editor of Railroad History from 2007 until 2020, came to railroad history after a career in business. He was especially active in the sphere of public history. As a nationally known rail historian, Hansen served as a frequent lecturer, consultant, and writer.

Don L. Hofsommer is the author of numerous books and articles on railroads. Among his many titles are several books on the railroads of Iowa including Iowa's Railroads.

Carlos A Schwantes is the author or editor of twenty books and numerous professional journal articles. During his fifty-year career in the classroom, he frequently taught classes both on Missouri as the Gateway to the West and on the railroads of the United States.