Gilmore Garage Works

2024 Garage Works Season Set for September Start

Garage Works Open House

• Thursday, September 19th
• 5:00pm to 7:00pm

For new students and parents to visit, tour and apply for this season's class. Refreshments will be provided.

We cordially invite you to attend the Gilmore Garage Works Open House! We’re delighted to welcome High School Students, Parents, Teachers, Supporters, Mentors, Family, and Friends. Our education team is excited to introduce you to our afterschool program dedicated to teaching students about automobile restoration. This event is a wonderful opportunity for those interested in exploring what Garage Works has to offer and to see firsthand the skills and passion that drive our program.

As you tour our facilities and engage with our team, we hope you’ll gain a deeper understanding of how Garage Works can help students develop valuable skills and foster their interest in automotive restoration. We’re thrilled to share our program with you and answer any questions you may have. We hope you will join us in supporting the future of these talented young restorers!

First Day of Garage Works

• Tuesday, September 24th
• 4:00pm to 7:00pm

Meet New Program Director, John Chapman

John Chapman has been a longtime mentor in the Gilmore Garage Works program, and following his recent retirement from Eaton Corporation, has taken over responsibility as Gilmore Garage Works Program Manager.

John Chapman was born in Chicago, Illinois, and grew up in nearby South Haven, Michigan. He graduated from Western Michigan University with a Bachelor’s Degree in Mechanical Engineering in 1986, and recently retired from Eaton Corporation - Vehicle Group after 35 years of service. While at Eaton, John worked primarily in automotive valve train system development, and his responsibilities included designing, validating, and launching valve train components for major Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) customers. Products included intake/exhaust valves, hydraulic and mechanical lifters, diesel EGR valves, and gasoline direct injection pump actuators. John provided extensive valve train system and component training to Eaton new hires, and to Automotive Aftermarket & OEM customers. Beyond vehicle restoration, John’s other interests include woodworking, hunting, and fishing.

Gilmore Garage Works™ Putting Education In Motion

Backed by generous donors and fueled by the passions of a team of mentors, we launched the Gilmore Garage Works after-school enrichment program in the Fall of 2009. Today our mentors provide insight-filled instruction in automotive technology, giving students skills in welding, painting, and fabrication.

The goal: guide students down career paths while developing in them an appreciation for automotive history, as well as the soft skills of personal responsibility, consistent attendance, and the importance of personal presentation.

Students leave the Gilmore Garage Works program with a resume, a portfolio, and personal letters of recommendation—as well as self-confidence and a sense of accomplishment.

To become part of this critical program, as a mentor, student, or as a financial supporter, please contact Director of Education, Fred Colgren, in our Education Office or call 269-953-9021.