RPM Foundation

10/09/2026

Behind every skilled craftsperson is someone who took the time to teach them.

At RPM Foundation, mentors play an essential role in preparing the next generation of restoration professionals. They share more than technical knowledge, they provide hands-on guidance, real-world experience, and lessons learned through years of working in the craft.

By working side-by-side with apprentices, mentors help preserve specialized skills while giving emerging professionals the confidence and experience they need to build their own careers.

10/07/2026

The RPM Foundation Restorer’s Award recognizes the skilled professionals behind exceptional vehicle restorations and the craftsmanship, knowledge, and dedication their work represents.

The award goes beyond the finished vehicle, shining a light on the people behind the restoration and the specialized skills required to preserve automotive history.

By recognizing today’s restorers, we also celebrate the importance of passing their knowledge and skills on to the next generation.

Because preserving automotive history also means preserving the craft behind it.

10/06/2026

RPM Foundation is honored to have been selected by renowned automotive photographer and builder Larry Chen Photo as his nonprofit partner for Hagerty’s RADwood Build Challenge.

Watch episode 1 & 2: https://youtu.be/oRHZ8Ct8cfU?si=7ulRMYL8oEsWZieM&t=1067

Larry is transforming a 1996 Honda Accord Si-R as one of three builds celebrating the cars and culture of the 1980s and ’90s. On October 24, all three completed vehicles will come together at RADwood NorCal in Alameda, California, where attendees will vote in person for their favorite build.

If Larry’s Accord receives the most votes, RPM Foundation will receive $50,000 to help advance its mission of building the next generation of vehicle restoration craftspeople. https://www.rpm.foundation/radwood

With a $100,000 prize on the line, welcome to Hagerty's first-ever ...

10/01/2026

Hagerty's first-ever RADwood Build Challenge is here, and builder photographer Larry Chen Photo has chosen RPM Foundation as his partner charity!
Larry is transforming a 1996 Honda Accord SiR and if his build takes the win, RPM receives $50,000 to support the next generation of automotive restoration professionals.

The winner is decided with in-person voting at RADwood NorCal on October 24th from 4–8 PM, so RSVP for your FREE ticket at RADwood.com and vote for your favorite build during the event!

https://www.hagerty.com/media/series/radwood-build-challenge/

09/29/2026

RPM Foundation is proud to present the Restorer’s Award at the Hilton Head Island Concours d'Elegance, October 29–November 1.

The Restorer’s Award recognizes the craftsmanship, dedication, and expertise behind exceptional vehicle restoration and the skilled professionals helping ensure these traditions continue for generations to come.

We’re honored to celebrate the people behind the work and the craft that keeps automotive history alive.

09/25/2026

At RPM Foundation, the next generation doesn’t just learn by watching, they learn by doing.

Through hands-on apprenticeships, emerging craftspeople gain real-world experience working alongside skilled professionals, developing the techniques, knowledge, and confidence it takes to build a career in automotive and marine restoration.

That’s how we help keep restoration skills alive for the next generation.

09/23/2026

Through mentorship, education, and real-world opportunities, RPM Foundation helps the next generation build the skills and confidence needed to carry the craft forward.

Because preserving automotive history isn’t just about the vehicles, it’s about investing in the people who will keep them on the road for generations to come. Learn more at https://www.rpm.foundation/

08/19/2026

The Great Race was a truly special opportunity for our RPM apprentices, giving them the chance to step outside the shop and experience the automotive community on Route 66!

We’re grateful to everyone who supported our apprentices throughout the journey and helped make this experience possible.

07/29/2026

According to the Alliance for America's Skilled Trades, an estimated 2.1 million skilled trades jobs could go unfilled by 2030.

At RPM Foundation, we're helping close that gap by connecting young people with hands-on experiences, apprenticeships, and mentorships in automotive restoration. Every apprentice, mentor, and shop we support helps preserve automotive history while building meaningful careers for the future.

Whether you're a student, restoration shop, or industry supporter, there's a place for you in this mission.

Learn more and get involved at RPMFoundation.org.


https://fortune.com/2026/07/21/blackrock-ford-google-carhartt-skilled-trades-alliance/

Ford, Carhartt, BlackRock and Google have created the Alliance for America’s Skilled Trades, as 2.1 million jobs could go unfilled by 2030.

07/16/2026

We’re back from the 2026 Great Race!

What an incredible journey for our RPM Foundation apprentices. From navigating thousands of miles alongside their mentors to overcoming challenges on the road, this adventure was filled with teamwork, collaboration, and unforgettable memories. Here’s a look back at the experience that helped shape the next generation of automotive restoration professionals.