Name: Nathanael Fetters
School: McPherson College
Location: McPherson, Kansas
Areas of interest :
Body & Paint, Engine & Mechanical, Interior & Trim, Electrical, Fabrication & Metal Shaping, Frame & Suspension, Historic Vehicle Preservation, Original (Stock) Restoration, Hot Rods, Resto-Mods, Performance Mods / Tuning, Imports
Era of interest:
Nathanael’s passion for all collector vehicles started with his grandfather. He enjoys Pre-War (1900-1939) vehicles and cars from the 1940s, 1950s, 1960s, 1970s and 1980s.
What sparked your interest in collector vehicles?
My first experience with antique vehicles was with my grandfather’s cars when I was only 10. I started polishing the brass on his 1910 Aubrun and chrome on his 1934 Packard. He taught me to do small projects on them. From then on, I have always been interested in all collector vehicles.
What motivates you to pursue a career in vehicle restoration/preservation?
Along with my passion for antique vehicles, I am a person that likes the mechanical working of things, and that motivates me to take stuff, like cars, apart. That caused me to come to McPherson College to get a degree in Automotive Restoration, so I could learn how to put cars back together correctly.
Favorite vehicle-related experience
My favorite vehicle experience is my first time driving my grandfather’s 1934 Packard 12 coupe. It was only the 4th stick shift I’ve ever driven. This is my favorite because of how nice the car is to drive. Not only is the ride super smooth, but the experience itself driving such a special car is awesome.
Do you have a vehicle you’re working on / have worked on? What is it and what kind of work are you doing?
The vehicle I am currently working on is a 1949 Willys Jeepster. I am doing a complete frame-off restoration, everything from getting the frame powder coated, to rebuilding the engine, bodywork, paint, etc. This is my first project car, and it might not be perfect when it’s completed, but the learning experience is the real reason behind this project.
What are your short-term/long-term career goals?
My short-term goal is to get out into the workplace and establish my name, all while setting aside as much money as possible to set my long-term goal in motion. That long-term goal is to open up my own shop, maybe nothing big, but enough to keep me busy and earning a healthy income.
How has the RPM Foundation impacted your education/career path?
The scholarship I have been given has taken some stress away and let me focus on schoolwork and my project car more, and it might give me a chance to graduate from college without any debt, meaning I can have a better entrance to the workforce.