Elias,

Thank you for your email! It's nothing short of inspiring to see a young man making the efforts to pursue his dream, and I'd be happy to share my "two cents".

For me, education is everything. Getting your mind around your task is just as important as getting your "hands on". There is only one 4 year accredited college in the US for car restoration; McPherson College http://www.mcpherson.edu/

 Finding a local body shop to do a apprenticeship or intern at is your other avenue. Getting the real world scenario is often the best education, however it comes with the real world work pace and pressures of business (which aren't present in a school setting that takes the time you need to accurately learn).

I hope this helps you in your search. I will share this email in my blog so that we might get additional feedback for you!

Sincerely,

Seth

-------- Original Message --------
Subject: Restoration
From: Elias Baldwin 

Date: Mon, May 07, 2012 7:50 am
To: seth.warden@saratogaautomuseum.org

Dear Mr. Warden,
I'm a 22-year-old looking to pursue my dream of working on classic
cars. I came across your blog online and thought that, as Education
Director, you might be able to point me in the right direction. I've
talked to the owners of several restoration shops but I have no idea
where to start in learning the skills I need to begin my career. My
experience is limited to work I have done on my own cars, but I am
very eager to learn. Any help or direction you may be able to provide
is greatly appreciated.
Sincerely,
Elias Baldwin
Vergennes, Vermont