(A.K.A. Non-Original Rants)

–Co-opting good stuff from all over the ‘Net and maybe some original thoughts—ΜΟΛΩΝ ΛΑΒE

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A truly useful degree

I hadn’t heard of this until today, but apparently for the last fifty years, McPherson College in Kansas has been offering a degree in classic car restoration.

With around 175 enrollees, it focuses on practical trades like rebuilding engines, welding, painting, upholstery sewing, woodworking, and metal fabrication—abilities that keep classic American iron on the road and support a growing niche in the economy.

This initiative arrives at a crucial time for the U.S. workforce, where demand for skilled autoworkers surges. Projections from the TechForce Foundation indicate a need for over 85,000 new technicians each year, adding up to more than 350,000 by 2028. Classic car restoration fills a specialized gap, preserving pieces of American automotive history while creating stable, well-paying jobs that resist automation.

Truly the kind of hands-on degree that graduates students with a useable skillset (95% placement in six months). They are looking to double their enrollment and I think in today’s environment, they shouldn’t have much trouble once people find out they exist.

It looks like McPherson has a tight program offering rather than going for the scatter-shot programs of most colleges their size–quality over quantity.



7 responses to “A truly useful degree”

  1. Bear Claw Chris Lapp Avatar
    Bear Claw Chris Lapp

    Drove thru there a week or so ago. Do they take cars for projects for the class. My Dad ent a 55 Chevy to a votech friend of his and did that for me and my brother?

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    1. Bear Claw–Don’t know how they get their cars to work on. Worth giving a call if you have a project.

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  2. I tell my sons- learn a trade first. Then if you still feel the need for college- knock yourself out. Chances are- if you have a trade- the classes you will take will be for tangible professional advancement. You won’t be interested in nonsense.

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  3. Cool idea. I studied chemistry and worked in the business about two decades ago. I developed interests in metal working gunsmithing and mechanical work. It would be great if science students had more access/encouragement to learning something about trades that supported their careers. A chemist should know some of the important points around gas and hydraulic plumbing, ventilation and electrical/ electronic systems.

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  4. TRoy–Sound advice, especially now.

    Dennis–That would be a true comprehensive education.

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  5. Just saw an article the other day about training the next generation of A&P mechanics. The students looked like they were having a blast! Think about that the next time you get in any aircraft no matter the size. Median average pay per annum is $79K.

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    1. WDS–That’s awesome news! And will definitely think about that when I look at any plane.

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