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The Piston Academy: Classic Car Restoration Apprenticeship

Building a Career In Automotive Restoration?
An Apprenticeship Could Be Your Path.

If you are a working automotive technician who wants to begin a career in collector car restoration and service, a Piston Academy apprenticeship can get you where you want to go. With your interest in the trade and dedication to learning the craft, an apprenticeship can put you on a path to an exciting and rewarding career.

The Apprenticeship Journey

Apprenticeship Awards

If selected and placed as an apprentice in a restoration shop, the apprentice will receive a six-month training grant of up to $7,500. Apprenticeship programs can last 6 to 24 months. Apprentices may apply for up to four training grants, for a total of two years of grant assistance. 

Apprentices will be selected on the basis of their demonstrated interest in a skilled trade career in collector car restoration, their related experience, employment history, and job performance. Their academic record, letter of recommendation, and financial need, will also contribute to the selection of apprenticeship recipients.

The apprenticeship committee responsible for reviewing applications and awarding placements is made up of Piston Academy leadership, select Foundation advisors, and industry partners. All applicants agree to accept committee’s decisions as final.


Eligibility Requirements

Individuals who are committed to building a career in collector car restoration may apply to our apprenticeship program if they meet the following eligibility requirements.

Applicants Must:

  • Have at least two years of automotive technician experience or similar technical hands-on experience.
  • Be high school graduates, GED recipients, or equivalent if educated outside the U.S.
  • Be legally eligible to work in the U.S.
  • Demonstrate financial need

Application Dates

Apprenticeships have an open application deadline. Applications are reviewed as they are submitted. Successful applicants will be contacted to schedule an interview. All applicants will be notified of their status within eight weeks.


How to Apply

Individuals can apply for a Piston Academy apprenticeship through our online application.

  • Register for an account and verify your email address.
  • Complete all application questions.
  • Submit a personal statement about why you are passionate about pursuing a career in the collector car industry. Describe your previous automotive work experience and your personal qualifications. Minimum length is 500 words.
  • Submit a letter of recommendation from a non-family teacher, supervisor, or mentor.
  • Submit a video essay about you and the career you want to build in auto restoration. Share a project that demonstrates your skills and tell where you want to be in five years. Maximum length is five minutes.

Required Application Materials

The following materials are required to be submitted electronically along with your online application before you can be considered for an apprenticeship.

  • Your completed application with education history and work history
  • Personal statement. Minimum length is 500 words.
  • One letter of recommendation.
  • Video essay. Maximum length is five minutes.

Apply for a Piston Academy Apprenticeship

Our mission is to bring more people into the collector car industry and help them build rewarding, successful careers.

If you are a working automotive technician with a committed interest in building a career in collector car restoration and service, and you meet the eligibility requirements, we encourage you to apply for a Piston Academy apprenticeship.

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