In a world where hands-on trades are increasingly in demand but less frequently taught, Shawn Brando of Automotive Soft Trim is about to flip the script.
In June, Brando (aka The Twisted Artisan) will officially launch Automotive Upholstery School in Ocala, Florida — a move that could mark a pivotal moment for a craft often learned only through years of piecemeal apprenticeships or trial-and-error hustle.
The timing couldn’t be better. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, demand for skilled automotive technicians — especially those in niche specialties like upholstery — is projected to remain steady, even as the skilled trades workforce ages out. Yet formal training programs for auto trimmers remain few and far between. This new school not only fills a glaring gap, but does so with Brando’s signature blend of detail-driven instruction and passion for craftsmanship.
Brando’s vision isn’t just to teach the trade — it’s to elevate it. With support from some of the biggest names in the industry, students will get access to high-quality materials, pro-level equipment, and a network that could jumpstart their careers.
Whether you’re a hobbyist with a dream or a shop owner looking to upskill your team, this school might just be the fresh start the trade has been waiting for.
Below, we dive into our conversation with Brando, where he shares his journey, the school’s mission, and what the future holds for this ambitious new project.
Going from trimmer to teacher doesn’t sound easy. Why are you making the leap?
After 30 years as a trimmer, I’ve had the incredible opportunity to travel across the U.S., visiting elite trim shops, manufacturers, and distributors. What I discovered was eye-opening—most shops are in dire need of skilled workers but are hesitant to share their trade secrets. This gap made it easy for me to get hired on as a temporary worker and really dive deep into the upholstery industry.
As I traveled, it became clear that our industry lacks set standards and exclusive training facilities. To tackle this challenge, I created a Facebook group called Upholstery & Audio Tech, which has now grown to an amazing 88k members! My goal was to foster a community where trimmers could connect and share knowledge.
I even attempted to launch an online school, but after a year of hard work, I learned it was a scam. While this setback was disheartening, I refused to give up. Instead, I continued developing a curriculum based on feedback from my Facebook group, allowing me to engage with trimmers worldwide and create an in-person upholstery training program.
You alluded to other training programs that already exist. What will make Automotive Upholstery School unique compared to those?
What sets us apart from other programs is our hands-on approach to teaching the essential skills needed in this dynamic field. Rather than diving straight into fabrication, we focus on the foundational elements: cutting, sewing, and marking templates. Our curriculum is designed to build your confidence and expertise step by step.
Our workshops are tailored to provide in-depth exploration of specific topics. You’ll learn how to cover a steering wheel or tackle convertible top replacements through smaller class projects that allow for personalized guidance and mastery of each skill. Each workshop outlines the necessary skills in automotive upholstery, ensuring you leave with practical knowledge and hands-on experience.
As the automotive industry continues to evolve, our school will keep pace by updating installation methods with innovative tips and tricks that reflect current trends and technologies.
That sounds really cool. Is this an accredited program?
While we are currently not an accredited school, we are proud to share that we’ve already been contacted for job placement opportunities following our classes. We are also actively engaging with leading manufacturers about certifying our installation processes on certain items, which speaks volumes about the quality of education we aim to provide.
How do you see the school evolving over the next five years? And will you offer online courses?
In five years, I envision a fully functional upholstery school that transcends traditional education. This school will not only offer workshops and classes but also immersive 4-6 week programs tailored specifically to the needs of our sponsors and colleagues. Imagine a thriving online subscription-based platform for those who can’t attend in-person classes but possess the ambition and tools to advance their skills.
I can already picture shops across the United States empowering their technicians to take these classes, enhancing their skill sets and opening doors to better career opportunities. We are on the brink of something incredible, and I can feel the momentum building!
Are you partnering with industry leaders to bring your vision for a school to life?
We’re bringing a wealth of knowledge to our school with an impressive lineup of sponsors: Apex Leather, Amann Group, Krist Kustoms, Seat Belt Planet, GloTrim, Upholstery Shop.eu, NC Carpet Binding & Equipment, and more still in talks. With such a spectacular roster, we aim to attract hobbyists, newcomers, career changers, and seasoned industry professionals alike to our workshops and classes.
Ok, so how can prospective students enroll?
All sign-ups will be seamlessly handled through our website.
Mark your calendars because our first official workshop is set for June 5-7, 2025. We’re starting with Upholstery 101—covering machines, needles, threads, sewing techniques, and more.
I couldn’t be more excited for what lies ahead! Let’s transform the future of upholstery together.
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