Finding the Mr. Miyagi of Automotive Restoration

A young man walked into our world with a simple but powerful question:

“Where can I learn automotive restoration from someone who truly knows the craft?”

Like many in his generation, he did what comes naturally—he Googled it.

Not just automotive restoration classes or mechanic schools in Chicago, but something far more specific. He searched for:

“The Mr. Miyagi of automotive restoration in Chicago.”

That search said everything.

More Than a Skill — A Mentor

He wasn’t just looking for a job. He wasn’t even just looking for training.

He was looking for a mentor.

Someone who would teach him patiently. Someone who would explain why things are done a certain way, not just how. Someone who would value discipline, pride in workmanship, and respect for the craft—just like Mr. Miyagi did in The Karate Kid.

In a world full of shortcuts and quick fixes, this young man wanted to learn the right way.

Why That Search Matters

At Automotive Mentoring Group, that search resonated deeply with us.

Because automotive restoration isn’t just about engines, paint, or bodywork. It’s about:

• Learning patience in a fast-paced world

• Building confidence through hands-on work

• Developing pride in craftsmanship

• Passing down knowledge that textbooks can’t teach

The trades have always thrived on mentorship. The best technicians, restorers, and builders didn’t just learn from manuals—they learned by standing next to someone who had spent decades mastering the craft.

Wax On. Wrench On.

In The Karate Kid, Mr. Miyagi taught through repetition, discipline, and purpose. The lessons weren’t obvious at first—but over time, they became transformative.

Automotive restoration is no different.

Every bolt turned, every panel sanded, every engine rebuilt carries a lesson. And when those lessons are guided by the right mentor, something powerful happens: skills turn into confidence, and confidence turns into opportunity.

Why We Do What We Do

Automotive Mentoring Group exists for people exactly like this young man.

Those who are searching—not just for work, but for direction.

Those who want to learn from experienced professionals who care about the next generation.

Those who believe that mastering a craft can change the course of a life.

Sometimes mentorship starts with a simple Google search.

And sometimes, it leads to finding exactly what you were looking for.

If you or someone you know is looking to learn, grow, and be mentored in the automotive trades, Automotive Mentoring Group is here to help guide the journey.