Press Release: TEMPE, AZ–Mobile Solutions in-house training kicked off its first 2023 event with the Hot Rod Build School 4-day training this past April 15-18. The class featured many new topics that relate to the design, fabrication and finishing materials of custom vehicle interiors. Lead instructor and Mobile Solutions founder/CEO Bryan Schmitt said “Following the successful second MasterTech Expo, we wanted to highlight many of the important hands-on, close up processes that attendees specifically asked for during a more intimate class and shop setting.”
Over the four class days, nearly 25 attendees were led by a team of 5 instructors in the disciplines of metal fabrication, 3D router work, plastics, lighting, upholstery and more. The instructors included:
- Bryan Schmitt of Mobile Solutions (@mobilesolutionsfabrication)
- Chris Pate of MTI Acoustics (@mtiacoustics)
- Justin Kush of MTI Acoustics (@i_am_fabzilla)
- Wesley Cato of Anything Car Audio (@anything_audio_upholstery)
- Doug Dobson of HKI/Tury (FB – Doug Dobson)
“We presented so many new and cutting-edge techniques in this class that even the seasoned veteran fabricators found many new and exciting tricks to elevate their projects” adds Schmitt. Justin Kush and Chris Pate built an entire trunk in two days that was separate from the class project. Doug Dobson is known as an all-around helpful team player on these projects. Wesley Cato is one of the resident guest upholstery experts at Mobile Solutions classes.
April 2023 Hot Rod Build School workshop topics included:
- How to conceptualize a design and convert to something you can build
- Detailed router work examples for greater precision and efficiency
- Using aluminum in multiple ways for serviceable panel construction and cosmetic interest
- How to seam different materials together (vinyl, suede & carpet)
- New vinyl embossing techniques to personalize hot rod interior design
- New diamond pattern panel technique to emulate upscale vehicle interiors
- Technical vinyl wrapping examples with time-saving tools and preparation
- Where to find premium OEM-grade leather, vinyl, fabric, glue and supplies
Schmitt noted what’s different about in-person training at Mobile Solutions is the diversity of ever-evolving content, the breadth of knowledge and skillsets from the guest presenters and that each attendee does hands-on work with their own take home class projects. Alan Lindgren from Speed of Sound LLC in Memphis, TN said “With custom fabrication representing such a large portion of my business, these classes are invaluable. Attendees are able to take away much more than a few new shop techniques. It’s a comprehensive overview covering business practices, effective shop setup/management and of course, advanced fab skills in many areas”
The class project for this workshop was fashioned after a muscle car or hot rod rear parcel shelf with numerous layers of detail options each attendee could personalize. “Although the project focused on a rear deck application, the techniques from design to execution all transfer to other panels or parts of the interior” said Chris Pate, guest instructor. Justin Kush also taught a session on lighting and design work in the 3D CAD program called Procreate 3D.
NC Carpet and Apex Leather stepped in to support the Hot Rod Build School class with sewing machines and upholstery supplies & materials to ensure all projects were finished to a high degree of quality. Each attendee of course takes their project home to display their new capabilities to their clientele.
Watch Mobile Solutions’ Facebook, Instagram and website for more information when the next in-person workshops are announced, as well as MasterTechExpo.com for the 2024 MasterTech Expo education program details slated for March 3-6, 2024 at Mesa Convention Center in Mesa, Arizona.
About Mobile Solutions
Mobile Solutions USA is an innovation-driven company creating tools and delivering training that enable custom automotive electronics, audio and interior installations progress with a level of efficiency not otherwise efficiently achieved in the aftermarket automotive business. With the patented Smart Templates™ brand of design tools and many other process-driven innovations, Mobile Solutions USA serves the aftermarket automotive technician, fabricator and retail store community through direct sales and distributors around the globe.
For more information, please visit www.mobilesolutions-usa.com.