Meet the Trainbid Team

Innovators. Creators. Collectors. We're here to change the game.

Our Story

Trainbid was built by collectors, for collectors. We were tired of sky-high fees on other sites and support teams who couldn't tell a caboose from a coupler. So we decided to do something about it.

When we looked around, there just wasn't a marketplace that truly got us — one that felt fun, fair, and built around the unique needs of hobbyists. So we created Trainbid:

A platform with lower fees, real expertise, and a community-driven feel — Accessible to all, whether you're a seasoned seller, a casual collector, or someone sorting through an inherited train collection for the very first time.

We believe the love of the hobby should always come first, and that every collector deserves a platform built with them in mind.

Mike Wax

CEO & Founder

Mike is a lifelong collector and entrepreneur with a deep appreciation for the model train & hobby world. He started Trainbid to build a better marketplace to connect hobbyists, manage their collections, and provide a fun Buyer & Seller experience compared to major marketplaces that do not fully understand the intricacy and dynamics of the model train market.

While geared towards the collector, he also wanted to create a simpler, more educational marketplace for novices and those who have inherited collections but don't know much about them. When he looked around, there was no good alternative to support this vision—so he built Trainbid.

Ulus Ekerman

Product & Creative Associate

Ulus contributes to Trainbid across product testing, consulting, and creative direction. His eye for detail, ability to navigate digital tools, and user-first mindset help shape and refine the Trainbid experience from behind the scenes.

Howard Zane

Consultant & Business Specialist

Howard Zane is a respected consultant and business specialist with decades of experience in the model train industry. As founder of Zane Structures and a lifelong modeler, he brings craftsmanship, insight, and a deep understanding of the hobby to Trainbid.

Fred Hill

Advisor & Industry Supporter

Fred Hill is a legendary figure in the model train world and the longtime owner of The Whistle Stop in Pasadena, CA. With decades of experience, deep knowledge of model train appraisals, and a reputation for helping collectors across generations, Fred supports Trainbid with wisdom, encouragement, and trusted industry perspective.

David Jarres

Train Specialist & Consultant

David Jarres is a passionate collector and expert in model trains. As a trusted consultant for Trainbid, he brings sharp insight, deep hobby knowledge, and a keen eye for detail to help ensure quality and accuracy across listings and community support.

Andrew Scott

Investor, Collector, Historian

Andrew Scott is a dedicated contributor & supporter of Trainbid, combining his love for trains and transportation history with strategic investment insight. As both an enthusiast and part backer of the platform, Andrew plays a key role in helping Trainbid grow while staying true to the spirit of the hobby.