Educational Conference

by Leona D. Scott

According to Catalyst.com, women in automotive repair and maintenance make up only 9.9% of the automotive workforce. In 2014, when Mary Barra became CEO of GM, she was the first woman to run a major OEM.

While women are making progress in the industry, it can happen slowly and with great challenges. That’s why programs like the Women’s Industry Network (WIN) Most Influential Women (MIW) Awards are vital.

The collision industry looks forward to WIN’s annual announcement of its stellar lineup of recipients, and 2022 is no different.

WIN’s 2022 MIW recipients will be honored at a gala held during WIN’s 2022 Annual Educational Conference, May 2-4 in Greenville, SC. This year’s conference will be hybrid, offering an in-person event, alongside an online program to make the event accessible to more attendees.

To learn more, visit www.womensindustrynetwork.com.

Autobody News reached out to the seven recipients who make up the 2022 class of Most Influential Women to get their thoughts and reflections on receiving this prestigious industry award.

Allison Boever, chief human resources officer, Repairify, values the opportunity to mentor women for leadership roles at Repairify.

“I am beyond humbled by the recognition as one of WIN’s Most Influential Women,” said Boever. “As a human resources leader, I’m a believer that when we strive for diversity, we strengthen the organization as a whole. One of my most rewarding activities in business and life is to mentor and help prepare women for leadership opportunities as our industry continues to evolve. I’m surprised and honored and will strive to live up to the ‘most influential’ standard every day.” Alicia Figurelli, vice president, Thomas Greco Publishing, believes the recognition that awards like this provide will help elevate the work of all women in collision repair.

“Being recognized in this way as someone who has helped make a difference in our industry is exhilarating! It’s a definite milestone in my career, and I’m so grateful to help represent one of the many areas of collision repair where a woman can excel and contribute,” said Figurelli. Shirin Hezar, director, strategic accounts, Caliber Collision, said as a result of recent economic and cultural dynamics, she found opportunities to contribute in unexpected ways.

“In today’s evolving environment, it will be key for female leaders in our industry to leverage innovative, out-of-the box thinking to ensure we keep pace with rapidly changing customer expectations,” Hezar said. “The collision industry offers many unique opportunities for female leaders. Their fresh perspectives and new ideas will shape our future, and I am honored to be part of this amazing journey.” Jennifer Hubbard, client engagement manager, CCC Information Services, looks forward to promoting careers for women in collision repair even more as a result of the award.

“I am grateful for being recognized and I intend to live up to the level of success this award demands,” Hubbard said. “I am dedicated to spreading the word on how a career in the automotive collision industry is very rewarding. The people I meet on a daily basis are an amazing group of individuals with a strong worth ethic and are driven by our ever-changing and exciting industry.” Samantha Kita, regional vice president, operations, Gerber, is grateful for the award’s legacy and is humbled by the recognition.

“... It’s hard to find the words to explain how I feel. All the amazing women out there who are paving their own way while finding work-life balance, have my utmost respect,” Kita said. “Knowing that I have the support and dedication of my Gerber family makes me want to be better. I am so honored to have my work recognized by the Women’s Industry Network.” Micki Woods, owner, Micki Woods Marketing Genius for Body Shops, is thankful for the recognition and believes the award highlights the overall contributions of women in collision repair.

“I know I work hard and do well for my clients but there are so many other women out there working their tails off doing their best that deserve to be honored,” said Woods. “I’m proud, I’m surprised, I’m grateful, I’m humbled and I’m freaking pumped UP!” Debbie Menz, strategic account manager (retired), Axalta, will also be recognized at this year’s event. She was unable to be reached for comment before press deadline.

Allison Boever

Alicia Figurelli

Shirin Hezar

Jennifer Hubbard Samantha Kita Micki Woods

AUTOBODY

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When your customers need collision repair parts, offer them the original equipment designed for their Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep®, Ram or FIAT ® Brand vehicle – Mopar®. Using aftermarket or salvage parts on their vehicles puts them at a higher collision risk and can influence the integrity and overall quality of their vehicle.

Keep your customers safe and satisfied with your repair services. Go with the original. Go with Mopar. Call us first for all your parts needs!

FRANKLIN SUSSEX AUTO MALL

315 Route 23 Sussex, NJ 07461

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