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Rick Schmidt – Ask Rick
It’s a brand-new year, bursting with possibility. While none of us can predict exactly what 2026 will bring, one thing is certain — it’s the perfect time to Ask Rick for some insight.
This month marks a major milestone in the classic car world as National Parts Depot celebrates its 50th anniversary. We sit down with Rick Schmidt to talk about the incredible origins of this legendary parts powerhouse, the journey that built it, and what the future holds for one of the most respected names in the restoration industry.
Rick’s Take On Fifty Years of NPD
Fifty years is a milestone worth celebrating. It’s no small achievement for any company to not only survive, but thrive and grow over five decades. National Parts Depot has done exactly that — thanks to the vision of its founder Jim Schmidt and the leadership of his son, Rick.
The story begins in the golden era of the 1950s and 60s, when a young Jim Schmidt was working in the family machine shop, Fabco. While the machining business paid the bills, Jim’s passion was always automobiles. That passion eventually led him to start his own parts business right out of the family basement.
Long nights and relentless dedication followed, as Jim machined, stocked, and shipped parts by hand. Rick recalls those early days in 1976, when his dad took orders on a dedicated hotline at home and NPD’s only advertising was a small listing in Hemmings Motor News. Today, NPD proudly occupies the entire back cover — a powerful symbol of how far the company has come.
In the early years, most parts were sourced directly from dealerships, where many components were still available but had to be special ordered. NPD began stocking essential restoration parts for classic Thunderbirds, making them readily accessible to enthusiasts. Over time, the focus shifted toward Mustangs — now the largest segment of the restoration market — followed by Chevelles and Camaros.
As a young man, Rick once imagined a future outside the restoration business. But watching his father pour endless hours into building NPD into a customer-first operation left a lasting impression. As the company grew and operations became more refined, Jim and Rick found opportunities to work together, and Rick’s passion for the business began to take root.
That passion truly ignited during Rick’s time managing the Michigan warehouse, where he helped streamline operations and improve efficiency. Blending his mother’s mediation skills with his father’s business instincts, Rick developed a leadership style built on respect, communication, and long-term vision. Today, he’s more energized than ever about the next fifty years of NPD.
As Rick puts it, the market will always rise and fall — the key is being strong enough to ride out the lows and stay positioned for the next surge. The goal is longevity. The mission is forever.
Rick’s Take On Cars To Sell At Auction
It’s auction season — and we’re looking to make some money.
Which of these three cars could we take to any January auction and walk away with a profit? The goal: under $30,000 upfront, a smart buy, a quick flip, and a solid return. Buy it right, sell it right, and let Rick show us how it’s done.
It doesn’t have to be Mecum — but it does have to make sense.
Let’s go shopping.
Car #1: 1971 Cadillac Fleetwood Eldorado Convertible – Sold for USD $54,500
https://bringatrailer.com/listing/1971-cadillac-fleetwood-eldorado-convertible/
Car #2: 1991 Chevrolet Camaro Z28 Convertible – Sold for USD $24,515
https://bringatrailer.com/listing/1991-chevrolet-camaro-z28-convertible-15/
Car #3: 1969 Plymouth Road Runner Hardtop 440 – Sold for USD $31,250
https://bringatrailer.com/listing/1969-plymouth-road-runner
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This interview sponsored by our pals at National Parts Depot –
your premier source for muscle car restoration parts!
