Hundreds of men, women and children learned how to weld, pinstripe and rebuild their carburetors at last year’s biggest motorcycle and automotive events, thanks to Real Deal Revolution, a collective of skilled tradeswomen fueled by passion and driven by a shared legacy who empower others to break boundaries and achieve.
Co-founded by the late Jessi Combs, the fastest woman on Earth and first female grand marshal of the Sturgis Motorcycle Rally, and renowned automotive painter and bike builder Theresa Contreras, Real Deal Revolution enjoyed its most impactful year yet in 2024, officials reported in a press release.
The organization launched several new programs, including a Moto scholarship with Doffo Winery, was awarded a VF Foundation grant and was recognized by Event Marketer among its “Top Experiential Exhibit Trends.”
With support from brands such as Dickies, Harley-Davidson, Lincoln Electric and Industrial Metal Supply Co., and assistance from the Jessi Combs Foundation, Real Deal Revolution brought its traveling “workshoppes” to more than a dozen industry events, from The One Moto Show in Portland out to Babes Ride Out in New York, back through the Midwest for the Harley-Davidson Homecoming, to the Four Corners Rally, to Biker Belles Woman’s Day in Sturgis, then to the SEMA Show and more.
“Dickies is incredibly proud to support Real Deal Revolution and their mission to champion the vital role of women within the skilled trades,” said Troy Kerr, director of marketing for Dickies. “Their passion and energy while breaking down barriers and fostering an inclusive environment is truly inspirational.”
Some of Real Deal Revolution’s 2024 events and instructors included:
- Pinstriping by:
Shayna Guy – kustom painter on Netflix’s Resurrected Rides
Theresa Contreras – co-host of Auto Revolution’s “High Octane Hustle” podcast
- Resin by:
Tamara Robertson – engineering expert for Discovery Channel’s “Mythbusters Jr.” - Carb Rebuilds by:
Riley Schlick – “Riley’s Rebuilds” started as a teenager
Bobbi Prueter – award-winning bike builder - Welding by:
Hannah Stout-Ortega, Zoe Carmichael, Lindsey Hover, and Sana Abbas – and other scholarship recipients of The Jessi Combs Foundation
“As we celebrate our 10th year, we’re even more driven heading into our next decade of empowering others through hands-on skilled trades,” said Contreras. “Working with partners like Dickies and being awarded the VF Foundation grant has played a pivotal role in not only us looking good while doing what we love, but by supporting us in our mission to help supercharge our future. With support like theirs, we look forward to making Real Deal Workshoppes even more accessible to everyone.”
