Shifting-Gears-on-a-New-Career-Path.php

Shifting Gears on a New Career Path

• Students
• 08/12/2026

Elizabeth Caspers chose Rock Valley College because she wanted to completely change the direction of her career.

 

“I had spent years working in payroll and office management, but my passion has always been custom automotive paint and restoration. When I learned about the Collision Repair program, it felt like the perfect opportunity to build a strong foundation and finally pursue something I’ve dreamed about for years.”

Elizabeth is studying Collision Repair with a focus on automotive refinishing. She has always been fascinated by custom paint, lowriders, restoration, and the artistry that goes into transforming a vehicle.

“I wanted to learn the proper techniques and build my skills so I could eventually create high-quality custom work while preserving classic cars.”

One of the things Elizabeth appreciates most about the program is that the instructors genuinely want to see students succeed.

Her collision repair instructor Nick Verona says Elizabeth is one of the most successful students of the program. “Academically she was excellent, she learned quickly, and was able to apply what she learned to the hands-on part of the training. As a member of the class, she showed natural talent and quickly became a leader.”

The experience gave Elizabeth the confidence to believe her goals were within reach.

“Before starting the program, my dream of owning a custom automotive business felt overwhelming. Now I have practical skills, industry knowledge, and mentors who have encouraged me to keep moving forward. It has turned a dream into a real plan.”

Balancing school while raising two children as a single mom wasn't always easy. There were times when finances, time, and self-doubt made things challenging. But every obstacle reminded Elizabeth why she started. She wanted to show her children that it's never too late to chase your dreams and build a better future.

Her determination paid off. Elizabeth completed the 16-week Collision Repair program earlier this year and will return in January 2027 to continue the next phase of her training. Her commitment to the trade has also earned national recognition. Elizabeth was one of just 102 students across the country to receive a 2026 scholarship from the Collision Repair Education Foundation (CREF). Supported by a $40,000 donation from State Farm, the scholarship awarded her $2,500 to help continue her education.

Today, she's putting those skills to work by launching Gold Rose Customs, a woman-owned custom automotive business specializing in restoration, custom paint, pinstriping, and lowriders. Her flagship project is a 1963 Chevrolet Impala, which she's documenting from start to finish as she continues building her skills, portfolio, and business.

Her ambitions extend well beyond restoring a single vehicle. Elizabeth hopes to create a respected custom automotive shop while encouraging more people—especially women—to explore careers in the skilled trades and collision repair industry.

She also plans to continue learning through mentorships while gaining experience in restoration and custom paint.

“Long-term, I plan to build my own custom automotive business where I specialize in restoration, custom paint, pinstriping, airbrushing, and eventually mentor others who want to enter the industry.”

Verona believes Elizabeth's determination and willingness to help others will continue to serve her well.

“She was quick to help other students with their projects and was not afraid to try new things herself. Looking to her future, I can see her being a very successful business owner, and I expect she will quickly become a leader in the industry.”

Elizabeth is incredibly grateful for the opportunity to be part of the Collision Repair program. “It gave me far more than technical skills; it gave me confidence, direction, and a community of people who believed in me. I look forward to continuing my education and representing the program as I grow in this industry.”

For others considering a similar path, Elizabeth offers simple advice:

“Don’t let fear convince you that you’re not capable. Ask questions, stay curious, and take advantage of every opportunity to learn. Everyone starts somewhere, and the only way to grow is by showing up consistently and putting in the work.”

 

 

“The program gave me hands-on experience while also teaching me the fundamentals behind why things are done a certain way. It created an environment where I felt comfortable asking questions, making mistakes, and continuing to improve.”

Elizabeth Caspers, Collision Repair student