Auto repair shop hosts community workshop for women to learn the basics of car maintenance
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An automobile factory in New York recently held a workshop specifically designed to teach women in their community basic car maintenance skills. according to Eagle News Online.
Emily DelFavero, a Subaru service technician who co-led the workshop, told the newspaper that car maintenance does not have to be reserved only for men.
“The aim of the evening event was to help women feel less intimidated and more comfortable in the traditionally ‘male-dominated’ field of car repair. It was also to help them feel more confident and less overwhelmed when a problem with their vehicle occurs at an inconvenient time, such as when it won’t start,” the newspaper said.
Participants in the Aug. 12 workshop at Scott’s Automotive in Minoa, New York, learned how to jump start a vehicle, check oil levels and tire pressure, change a tire and replace windshield wiper blades. The women also received tips on helpful tools like a digital gauge and torque wrench.
Lance Scott, the repair shop’s manager, told the newspaper that the workshop had generated a lot of interest among women in the community. He said the shop will hold more informative workshops in the future. These could include workshops on winter tires, safety tips for new drivers and what to look for in a used car.
“DelFavero said she is happy to share her knowledge about cars with everyone because people invest huge amounts of money in their vehicles and we rely on our cars to get home, to work and from point A to point B,” the article said.
Lisa Ferguson, board member of the I-CAR MSO Business Development and Women’s Industry Network (WIN), presented a similar breakout session for women in the collision industry at WIN’s national conference in May.
The session was designed for women working in the industry but not in the workshop and included a beginner’s guide to understanding vehicle structure, function and basic maintenance.
Participants learned that there are an average of 12 different types of metal in vehicles and that yellow fire extinguishers are used in fires involving flammable metals.
Ferguson said that for women who are unfamiliar with vehicle repair, it can sometimes be easier to learn about it from other women.
“They feel like it’s a safe place to talk,” Ferguson said. “No question is stupid.”
WIN is also always looking for opportunities to introduce the next generation of women to the industry, Ferguson said.
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Photo courtesy of Antonio_Diaz/iStock
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