Why does a quality car restoration cost so much—and why are experienced automotive technicians becoming nearly impossible to find?

In this extended episode of In the Shop with Atomic Autoworks, Ed Barrett sits down with Marc Ulan, founder of Z2 Motorsports in New Britain, Connecticut, for an honest conversation about running an automotive restoration and performance business.

Ed and Marc discuss the victories, losses and difficult lessons that come with operating a shop. They examine how inflation, increasing material costs, expensive equipment and the skilled-labor shortage are affecting restoration businesses and their customers.

They also discuss whether automotive and technical schools are adequately preparing students for the real world, why some instructors may give students unrealistic expectations, what skilled craftsmanship is truly worth and how much a properly completed automotive restoration actually costs.

Other topics include:

• Finding and retaining qualified automotive professionals
• The difference between trained labor and experienced, skilled labor
• The effect of inflation on shops and restoration customers
• Business mistakes, victories and lessons learned
• The future of the restoration, restomod and performance industries
• Current projects underway at Z2 Motorsports
• Training and supporting the next generation of tradespeople

This episode also includes a message from Blue Collar Classified and its mission to connect skilled workers, employers, students and opportunities throughout America’s blue-collar industries.

Learn more about Z2 Motorsports:
https://z2motorsports.com

Visit Blue Collar Classified:
[INSERT BLUE COLLAR CLASSIFIED LINK]

Follow In the Shop with Atomic Autoworks for more honest conversations with the builders, craftspeople and business owners shaping the automotive industry.

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