Collision repair has historically been an industry that’s mostly employed men, but one organization has been working diligently behind the scenes to change all that. Thanks to the ongoing efforts of the Women’s Industry Network (WIN), an increasing number of women are now enjoying rewarding careers at all levels in the collision repair process. And fortunately, these transformative changes within what once was a male-dominated industry are coming at a critical time when many shops are now facing technician shortages.
Founded in 2006, the Women’s Industry Network, or “WIN”, is a not-for-profit organization that attracts, develops, and helps promote talented women within all segments of the collision repair industry. Started initially by a handful of passionate individuals, WIN today boasts a dedicated membership of over 500 men and women across the U.S. and Canada, including Mary Bara, the first ever female CEO of General Motors. Overseeing WIN’s many initiatives are a 12-member, all-volunteer board, and an Executive Committee made up of five individuals.
A handful of women have historically served within the collision repair industry in positions ranging from front office help to shop co-ownership. Today, WIN’s membership roster reflects the expanding roles of women within this $236 billion per year market who work for:
As the industry continues to change, more and more women are now serving in important positions to help ensure a brighter tomorrow. WIN’s impact starts with the fact women influence a majority of buying decisions in households, including ones related to collision repairs. According to their website (thewomensindustrynetwork.site-ym.com), the group is also reshaping the future of the industry by:
So how exactly does WIN directly promote diversity in the collision repair industry? First, the group financially supports qualified applicants who demonstrate a strong desire to excel in the field of collision repair by offering several scholarships and financial awards that cover:
Secondly, WIN presents annual Most Influential Women (MIW) awards to exceptional candidates who have enriched the collision repair industry with their vision, leadership and commitment to excellence. To date, over 80 MIW recipients have been honored for their professional achievements and continuing efforts to go above and beyond while giving back to their respective communities.
MIW candidates are nominated by their peers each year, and then the winners chosen by WIN’s Board and Executive Committee members. Past MIW recipients include shop owners, body and paint technicians, managers, suppliers, lobbyists, wholesalers, insurance adjusters, educators, editors, writers, and industry association directors. The women who earned MIW distinctions in 2018 were Shelly Bickett, Mary Mahoney, Marie Peevy and Petra Schroeder.
And finally, WIN hosts an Educational Conference every year that offers numerous training, networking and socializing opportunities for participants. This year’s conference is being held in Ft. Lauderdale, FL, May 6th through 8th.
Thanks in part to the efforts of WIN, the future of the collision repair industry remains bright. When your ride’s been in an accident, take it to an ASE-certified auto body shop nearby featured in the nationwide Carwise referral network. Highly-qualified men and women there will have the training, equipment and know-how to restore your vehicle like new again promptly and reliably.
Search your zip code now for a customer-reviewed auto body or glass repair shop nearby: www.carwise.com.
