RPM Foundation, an entity of America’s Automotive Trust, is celebrating a major victory following the conclusion of Hagerty’s RADwood Build Challenge, where renowned automotive photographer and builder Larry Chen claimed the top prize with his customized 1996 Honda Accord Si-R. The victory secured a $50,000 award for Chen and an additional $50,000 for RPM Foundation, his selected nonprofit recipient.
The competition brought together three prominent automotive builders, each tasked with transforming a vehicle from the 1980s or 1990s while representing a nonprofit organization of their choice. The other two competitors included Mike Burroughs with a 1989 Lotus Esprit Turbo and Vin Anatra with a 1994 Chevrolet Silverado Dually. The completed vehicles made their public debut at RADwood NorCal on Saturday, Oct. 24, at Gold Bar Hangar in Alameda, California, where attendees voted in person to determine the winning build.
Chen’s 1996 Honda Accord Si-R emerged as the crowd favorite, earning top honors and delivering a significant investment in RPM Foundation’s mission to preserve the art of vehicle restoration and develop the next generation of skilled craftspeople, a press release from RPM Foundation said.
“To be selected by Larry as the charity recipient for his build’s win is a great honor,” said RPM executive director Nick Ellis. “RADwood-era cars are the next generation of classics, so we’re thrilled to see them get the recognition they deserve through events like NorCal. We’re grateful for the opportunity to put this contribution to good use, engaging and educating the hands-on craftspeople of tomorrow.”
Throughout the RADwood Build Challenge, Chen documented his project for his extensive online audience, bringing attention not only to his vehicle but also to the importance of investing in the people who maintain, restore and preserve automotive history, the release noted.
RPM Foundation Program Officer Abigayle Morgan attended RADwood NorCal to represent the organization, connect with competition participants and organizers and accept the $50,000 award on behalf of the foundation.
How the $50,000 Award Supports Restoration Workforce Development
RPM Foundation said the victory represents more than a financial award; it highlights the connection between today’s automotive enthusiasts and the craftspeople who will preserve their favorite vehicles for future generations. As vehicles from the 1980s and 1990s increasingly become part of the collector car landscape, the need for skilled restoration professionals continues to grow. RPM Foundation works to meet that need through paid apprenticeships, mentorship, endangered skills preservation and industry recognition.
The $50,000 award will support RPM’s ongoing mission to build career pathways for emerging craftspeople, safeguard specialized restoration knowledge and strengthen the future of the collector vehicle industry. The contribution also reinforces a shared appreciation for automotive culture across generations. Whether preserving a prewar classic or celebrating a beloved 1990s performance car, the future of automotive heritage depends on individuals with the knowledge and skills to keep these vehicles on the road, the foundation said.