Name: Israel Acosta
Age: 22
School: McPherson College
Location: McPherson, Kansas
Areas of interest :
Body & Paint, Engine & Mechanical, Fabrication & Metal Shaping, Historic Vehicle Preservation, Original (Stock) Restoration, Hot Rods, Performance Mods / Tuning, Imports
Era of interest:
Pre-war – 1990s
What sparked your interest in collector vehicles?
I credit my interest in collector vehicles to the restoration program at McPherson College. The professors and friends I have made in the program opened my eyes to the importance of preservation, collection, and maintenance of common and historic vehicles. In the time I have attended the college, I have had the pleasure of touring public and private collections that boosted my interest even further.
Do you have a vehicle you’re working on / have worked on? What is it and what kind of work are you doing?
I have a 1979 Ford F100 I am building as a NPTRA race truck. Currently I am finishing the metal work necessary for the chassis swap, but I was fortunate to receive an official 1980 NASCAR entry pamphlet to follow as strictly as I please. It contains safety regulations, acceptable chassis types, engine regulations, and much more which I will abide by.
What are your long-term career goals?
My most desired long-term goal is to become an established paint and body technician primarily painting vintage vehicles. This includes paint restoration, full resprays, and custom paint jobs that are era correct such as hot rods and street machines. I ultimately want to only do custom paint jobs that are colorful and intricate. Along with paint and body, I also want to be an above average metal worker because these two processes have such a demand for patience and precision.
How has the RPM Foundation impacted your education/career path?
The RPM Foundation has awarded me financial aid that has helped me worry less about affording college, given me the opportunity and honor of being in Hagerty Magazine, and been a source of valuable information relating to the industry of restoration. I can confidently say that the RPM Foundation has improved my experience attending college and exploring the automotive world.