Finding My Place as a Woman in Collision Repair

Entering the auto collision industry as an unmarried woman was never something I imagined for myself when I was younger. I grew up surrounded by heavy machinery and tools when I was young but was never hands on with them. 

Being a woman in this industry brings its own set of challenges. But those challenges can become steppingstones, and this industry offers opportunities for women in ways I never expected. 

The automotive industry, especially the auto collision side, often carries an outdated image: a bunch of guys under cars, covered in grease, and wielding wrenches. At first, I faced the natural assumption that I didn’t belong here. Women in this field are sometimes expected to be in supporting roles, whether that’s answering phones, doing admin work, or providing customer service. While I initially embraced those roles, I quickly realized I had so much more to offer. 

I wasn’t interested in just “filling a spot.” I wanted to prove that a woman could handle the technical aspects of the repairs and business, too. I knew that I could add value in more ways than one. I had to deal with the skepticism of others who doubted my skills, and people, especially customers, still doubt me.  I’ve had to prove myself twice as hard to earn the same respect that male counterparts received without question. As I kept pushing forward, it became clear that my work ethic, dedication, and passion were the qualities that really mattered. 

Women in the auto collision industry often encounter biases. I wasn’t taken seriously at first, and many people assumed I didn’t have the technical knowledge or the drive to succeed. I quickly learned that no one could define my worth except me. 

What helped me most was refusing to let the negativity discourage me. Still to this day I have customers ask to speak to my husband thinking that I am just the face of my shop. I’ve focused on learning and growing in ways that would give me the tools to prove myself. Whether that meant taking extra courses, shadowing skilled technicians, or simply asking more questions than I had before, I made sure to keep developing my skills. Eventually, it wasn’t my gender people were talking about; it was my ability to get the job done, my determination, and the unique perspective I brought to the table. 

One misconception I had before entering the auto collision world was that it was all about turning wrenches and getting my hands dirty. While I do enjoy the technical side of the industry, there are so many other valuable roles women can play here. Customer service, estimating, shop management, and marketing all require creativity, organization, and communication skills: areas in which I excelled. 

The collision industry needs women in leadership roles. Whether it’s influencing company culture, making decisions that impact the bottom line, or offering new ways of thinking about how business is done, women’s contributions are invaluable. I found my place in not only the technical side of things but also in guiding and managing teams, ensuring everything runs smoothly, and making sure customers have a great experience. 

One thing I wish I had known early on was how important mentorship would be in my journey. When I first started, I felt isolated, unsure of how to navigate the dynamics of a male-dominated workplace. Finding mentors, people who understood the challenges I faced, helped me grow both professionally and personally. These individuals taught me how to repair cars or manage a team and navigate the sometimes-tricky landscape of being a woman in the auto collision business. 

The relationships I’ve built with other women in the industry are invaluable. We lean on each other for advice, support, and encouragement. Equally important are the male allies who champion women in the workplace and advocate for diversity and inclusion. Having a solid network of people to turn to has made all the difference. My success is defined on my own terms. It’s about showing up every day, working hard, and not letting anyone’s perception of what I should or shouldn’t be limit what I can achieve. I’ve learned to take pride in my work, to continue learning and growing, and to be unapologetically myself. 

To any young woman considering a career in the auto collision industry: Do it. Don’t let the myths or stereotypes hold you back. It’s not always easy; there will be moments of doubt and frustration, but the personal and professional rewards are worth it. The industry needs more women who are willing to break down barriers and redefine what it means to be successful here. We have the power to shape the future of the auto collision world, and there’s a place for all of us in it if we keep pushing forward and never underestimate what we can achieve.