Wanting to Learn in SoCal (Business Opportunity)

First Stop Introductions
#1

Hi Everyone,

I live in San Bernardino CA, and am looking for a place where I can go help out and get experience. I’m not looking for pay I just want to learn.

I work Mon-Thurs 4-10s so I need to do the on fridays and the weekends. Basically I’m looking for a shop or even to help out someone with their projects.

I’ve always had an interest in carbon and kevlar composites. Recently I have been learning everything I can. But information seems to be varied and everywhere so I’d like some hands on experience.

I’m an ex navy nuke and have an IQ of 165 so learning isn’t a problem. I soak up info like a sponge and don’t forget.

My goal is to work with vacuum infusion since that’s what I want to do. I want to make quality automotive parts for myself and other enthusiast. I already have interested buyers in what I would be making.

I want to make moulds and make parts for volkswagens. Specifically R models and my own R32. I want to make
[ul]
[li]full doors
[/li][li]Quality hoods
[/li][li]hatches
[/li][li]fenders and flares
[/li][li]braces
[/li][li]roofs
[/li][li]and basically anything that can save weight and add regidity
[/li][/ul]

I have a spare car for mould making and I might be interested in even partnering up with someone who already has a business. The few companies that do make parts for our cars are crap and mostly fiberglass so there is a market for what I want to make.

Here’s my car for reference

IMG_3206 by Elshawno, on Flickr


Track Day by Elshawno, on Flickr


IMG_2650edit by Elshawno, on Flickr

#2

When I lived in Redlands, San Bernardino Valley College Aeronautics Program offered a Composites class over the summer. It was basic, but it was hands on. I took it and learned a lot during it. I was taught by a fellow who runs a repair facility at LAX for FedX, so he knew what he was talking about. Even if you can’t take the class, contact the Aeronautics program director Kevin Kammer and see what he might suggest.

#3

Ive taken a few classes at Cerritos College and have barely scratched the surface of what they offer in regards to plastics and composites. Terry Price is in charge of the dept and has a wealth of knowledge and experience to share. Most classes are on weeknights, so I know that would be a bit difficult, but they are expanding their weekend classes finally too.

Once you take a class or two, you can take a lab which is a 9 week class where youre allowed to make a project of your own choosing using the schools fabrication lab and some of their materials too. (My project was made of fiberglass and carbon fiber for example)