Vern Gillis, a conductor with the Alaska Railroad since 1992, roams the aisles of the passenger cars on the Coastal Classic on June 20, 2024. He is well known for his playful friendliness and charisma. During the train ride, Vern whipped out a harmonica and played a vibrant tune for a delighted young passenger. Afterwards, he told him jokes that brought laughter to all the surrounding passengers. This is a man who obviosuly loves his job.