Our Programs

Classic Car Restoration

The Classic Car Restoration Program prepares students with hands-on skills in restoring vintage vehicles, from teardown to finished product. Students learn mechanics, welding, bodywork, upholstery work, painting and detailing, using industry-standard tools and techniques. Emphasis is placed on craftsmanship, safety, and preserving automotive heritage, preparing students for entry-level roles, industry certifications and further work-based training and practical application in the restoration field.

Our Classic Car Restoration program helps to keep the niche craft of classic car restoration alive on the Monterey Peninsula. The program has been generously supported by the Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance and Don Williams Scholarship Fund, as well as many car enthusiasts on the Central Coast.

CERTIFICATIONS

Rancho Cielo Classic Car Restoration 

BENEFITS OF ALL PROGRAMS

Essential Resources and Wellness Services 

Transportation Access 

Skill Enhancement 

Enriching Experiences 

SCHEDULE

Monday–Thursday: 8:30am-3pm
Friday: 8:30am-1:45pm 

PROGRAM DATES

August through June. Approximately 10 months to complete. 

Ongoing/open enrollment 

ELIGIBILITY

Ages 16 to 24

Not a high school graduate (has not earned a high school diploma)

  • Field trips and events include Canepa Motorsports Museum, Universal Technical Institute (Sacramento), Laguna Seca Raceway, Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance and more. 
  • Hands-on projects, including small engine assembly and disassembly, steering and suspension, gas and diesel engine repair and performance, vehicle inspection and maintenance, electrical systems and electronics and more. 
  • Classic automotive mechanic 
  • Restoration technician

Coursework also prepares students for post-secondary training, industry certifications and college courses. 

Classic Car Restoration Course Sequences

This course offers first-year students the skills and knowledge required for an entry-level position in structural repair and refinishing of classic motor-driven vehicles. The instruction concentrates on collision repair and refinishing fundamentals, emphasizing safety and proper tool use and identification. Students are introduced to spot, MIG, oxy/acetylene welding, panel repair, sanding, taping, masking and painting. 

This course builds on the knowledge and skills obtained in the introductory course and focuses on proficiency in spot and MIG welding, full panel replacement and preparation, painting and refinishing. Students will become familiar with the entire repair process from estimation through final fit and finish, interior, upholstery and detailing work.   

This course will allow students to function in various roles in the structural repair and refinishing of classic cars. Students will demonstrate competency in the skills and knowledge acquired in previous courses and participate in work-based learning opportunities, which can lead to internships. Students who complete the course will qualify for industry-recognized certifications and are prepared for an entry-level position at a vehicle collision and refinishing facility. 

THANK YOU TO OUR PARTNERS