Vintage Automotive Restoration with Matthew Tyler Miller Wells | Vintage Kansas

Aug 31

2 min read

Matthew Tyler Miller Wells is the Associate Director of Automotive Studies at McPherson College, where he helps lead one of the nation’s most unique automotive restoration programs. A 2020 graduate of McPherson College, Matt returned to the college in 2026 after spending several years working in automotive restoration and serving as Education Director at The Garage Automotive Museum in Salina. A lifelong automotive enthusiast, Matt’s passion for cars began with a pair of Volkswagen Beetles and eventually led him to pursue a career in automotive restoration.

During his time at The Garage, Matt played a key role in building the museum’s educational programs and developing its rotating exhibits and interactive experiences. His work focused on making automotive history and restoration accessible to people beyond traditional car enthusiasts, including visitors who may have little knowledge of what happens under the hood. That experience helped shape his belief that automotive museums and educational programs need to connect with everyone, not just those who already consider themselves “car people.”

Today, Matt is focused on helping prepare the next generation of automotive restoration professionals at McPherson College. The college is home to the country’s only four-year bachelor’s degree program in vintage automotive restoration technology, and Matt is working to expand opportunities for students through workshops, events, industry connections and the return of the school’s famous Model T Build Team. As the automotive restoration industry faces a growing need for skilled professionals, Matt sees an exciting future in combining traditional craftsmanship with emerging technologies such as CAD design and 3D printing while preserving the knowledge and culture surrounding vintage automobiles. Click to expand