Hiring restoration techs isn’t easy

Question:

I run a large auto restoration/restomod building/muscle car collection business in Concord, North Carolina, near Charlotte, called RK Collection. We specialize in American muscle cars. In addition, we also have some exotics and bikes. I’ve been looking for a restoration technician for quite some time now and am finding it hard to access the people in this specialty. Do you have any suggestions as to where I might start finding people who have these skills in my area?

Answer:

I sincerely sympathize with your difficulty finding qualified employees, Rich. Many moons ago when I was in the restoration business I faced the exact same problem.

I did occasionally hire someone right out of the automotive technology degree program at a state college in my community. Have you tried to tap into this resource in your area? The Universal Technical Institute—North Carolina Campus in Mooresville, North Carolina, has various automotive technology related degree programs. It’s my understanding that most of this school’s graduates seek employment in racing, specifically in NASCAR, but I can think of a few reasons why someone might want to work in the restoration field rather than in racing, so it may well be worthwhile for you to contact this school to let them know you’re interested in hiring someone. You should also consider reaching out beyond your immediate geographic area with a national print ad.

The fact that you are located in an area of the country that offers a relatively low cost of living, good weather and good quality of life may make it easier to engender interest among experienced technicians from afar.

(Editor’s note: If you’re interested in learning more about this restoration complex, visit www.rk-collection.com.)