Celebrating the lovely ladies in the car service industry!

Despite the stigmas and stereotypes out there, the motor industry is full of revved-up females! 

Charmaine Pule is a Director at DME Auto Body Repairs, and she plays a pivotal role in ensuring high-quality service, while fostering a positive work environment.  

 

Charmaine, what are your responsibilities as Director? 

Team Management: “I oversee the team of auto body repair technicians and coordinate their work schedules, assignments, and training. I ensure that the team works efficiently to meet deadlines and maintain high-quality repairs.” 

Customer Relations: “I interact with customers, providing estimates for repairs, explaining the repair process, and addressing any concerns or questions they may have. Maintaining excellent customer service is crucial for customer satisfaction and retention.” 

Safety Compliance: “Safety is a top priority for me. I enforce safety protocols and ensure that all employees follow proper safety procedures to prevent accidents and injuries.” 

Equipment Maintenance: “I ensure that all tools and machinery are in good working condition and arrange for repairs or replacements as needed.” 

Training and Development: “I identify training needs for the staff and provide opportunities for skills development. This includes staying updated with the latest repair techniques, technology, and industry trends.” 

Business Development: “I am involved in business development activities, such as networking with potential clients, collaborating with insurance companies, and promoting the shop's services to increase business opportunities.” 

  

What are the challenges involved with operating in a male-dominated industry such as this? 

“Operating as a female in a male-dominated industry, such as auto body repairs, can present several unique challenges. These challenges, I have noticed, arise due to traditional gender stereotypes, cultural norms, and ingrained biases within the industry. Some of the key challenges I have faced as a female include: 

  • Gender bias and stereotypes 
  • Lack of representation 
  • Unequal opportunities 
  • Balancing work-life demands 

Despite these challenges, I can proudly say I am growing by leveraging unique perspectives, communication skills, and problem-solving abilities in this male-dominated industry. I have vowed to create a supportive workplace culture, fostering diversity and inclusion, and promoting gender equality initiatives that help to address these challenges and create a more equitable environment for all employees.” 

  

How did you decide to pursue this career? 

“There was a time when I entered a panel shop, and only men were working there, all of them were between the ages of 45 and 70. There was only one woman working there, the cleaner. This is when I made the decision to follow this career. I was certain that I wanted to alter the perspective, I wanted to make a difference. I wanted to influence how people and especially young people, view the automotive business, I wanted to run a repair shop. In addition, I wanted to support women becoming technicians and executives in the car body restoration sector. I wanted to encourage more young people to enter the profession. 

So now I am here and helping to develop the next generation of automotive leaders as I believe that they will make a positive impact on the industry.” 

  

Any advice for other ladies in the industry? 

“For females in the auto body repair industry, pursuing a career in a male-dominated field can be both rewarding and challenging. Here are some pieces of advice to help navigate and succeed in this industry: 

  • Believe in yourself and your abilities.  
  • Embrace learning new skills. 
  • Find mentors and allies who can provide guidance and support. 
  • Develop strong communication skills. 
  • Ignore stereotypes and prove your capabilities through your actions and dedication. 
  • Engage in industry events, workshops, and conferences. Networking can open doors to new opportunities and help you build a strong professional network. 
  • Look for employers and workplaces that foster an inclusive and respectful environment.  
  • Be supportive of other women in the industry. Encourage and uplift one another, and together, you can contribute to breaking down gender barriers. 
  • Take pride in your work and celebrate your accomplishments. 

  

Remember, your gender does not define your abilities. By staying committed to your goals, continuously improving your skills, and embracing your passion for auto body repairs, you can thrive in this challenging yet rewarding industry.”