P
professor
Hello Dave, I think you have most everything you need except experience. I would tell you to find a shop to work at for a year, but with your attention to detail, I'm afraid you would be soured by the "quick, get it out!" process.
I understand where you are. About 5 years ago I moved my shop from Sacramento, CA to Idaho. I had to build my shop and a new "marketing vehicle" to let people see my work. I built a 1966 Mustang into a GT350 "tribute" to a high level and entered it into every car show around. People took notice and I attracted a customer who wanted "what I do". I have plenty of business now, but it takes some time and perseverance, which it sounds like you have.
One word of caution - never put out any second rate work. You need to be willing to work almost for free in the beginning. Don't worry about the money for the first couple years. Once you have a good reputation for quality work, you can charge what you're worth. If I can answer some questions for you, let me know and I'll send you my phone number.
Scott Brideau
Car Concepts
I understand where you are. About 5 years ago I moved my shop from Sacramento, CA to Idaho. I had to build my shop and a new "marketing vehicle" to let people see my work. I built a 1966 Mustang into a GT350 "tribute" to a high level and entered it into every car show around. People took notice and I attracted a customer who wanted "what I do". I have plenty of business now, but it takes some time and perseverance, which it sounds like you have.
One word of caution - never put out any second rate work. You need to be willing to work almost for free in the beginning. Don't worry about the money for the first couple years. Once you have a good reputation for quality work, you can charge what you're worth. If I can answer some questions for you, let me know and I'll send you my phone number.
Scott Brideau
Car Concepts