Carlac Interviews Katie Chandler, From Ripon Paint & Body For International Women’s Day

In honour of International Women's Day, Carlac's Business Development Manager, Helen Wesolowski (HW), interviews Katie Chandler (KC), Ripon Paint & Body's Panel Beater. In the interview, they discuss the need to amplify female voices and how women need to own their space in their roles to forge a successful career.

HW: Tell me a little about your career to date?

KC: For as long as I can remember, I have always been interested in cars. I have fond memories of attending rally events with my dad and the enjoyment of watching various forms of racing. From that moment I was hooked and knew a career in the automotive industry was for me. My first job was sweeping up on a Saturday at my local garage. From there I wanted to try my hand at mechanics, like my sister, but had more joy from panel work, and once I'd completed my apprenticeship, there was no looking back.

HW: What is the most important piece of advice you have been given?

KC: Throughout my career, I have been fortunate to have worked with some amazing mentors who have shared their knowledge, wisdom and experience with me. 

One piece of advice that always stays fresh in my mind came from a former colleague when I was starting out. When I found a task difficult to complete and I would get frustrated, he'd always say, "don't say you can't do it. Say you're struggling". This advice would always helpshift my mindset because it reminded me that the task at hand was new and something I didn’t know yet, but I was on the journey to understanding it. 

HW: How can we encourage more women to pursue careers in automotive? 

KC: We must break down the stigmas that surround the industry and normalise women in roles across the sector. The jobs are there, they need to be considered and hired, and that's when we can start to tip the balance. 

Also, driving awareness of apprenticeships is important, showing young women that there are multiple educational routes into the industry and not just the traditional university pathway. I remember when I was at college, knowing that I wanted to work in automotive, but my career guide urged me to sit my A-Levels, deep down I knew it wasn’t for me, and only until after I had sat my AS-Levels, was I able to stand up and take the path I wanted to pursue. Form that, I sought my apprentice course, moved away from home and studied and learned my craft to get me where I wanted to be in life.

HW: What is the most important message you want to send out to young women thinking about their careers?

KC: Working in a bodyshop is a tough environment, you've got to be ready to get hands-on in any way you can. Go speak to garage and bodyshop managers, knock on doors, offer to clean up, and put yourself in that space and most importantly ask questions. I knocked on so many doors and had many close, but it didn't stop me. I didn't fall into this job, I made my space, earned it and now I own it. Now I have the job that I always wanted, and I couldn't be happier. 

HW: Is there anyone that inspires you in your career?

KC: I feel very fortunate to have met and worked with some incredible career mentors along the way, many of whom have become great friends. But the biggest influence of all has to be my sister, Stacey. She was my first real female inspiration in the workshop as she pursued her dream as a mechanic and took on as many opportunities to grow as she could. Because of this, she has now progressed to be a technical trainer for Porsche UK. 

I'm so proud of her achievements, proving her skills by working on incredible cars and carving out an extraordinary career.

HW: If you could have dinner with three inspirational women, dead or alive, who would they be and why?

KC: Beyonce, for obvious reasons. Michèle Mouton, the incredible Group B rally driver from the 80s. And finally, Sabine Schmitz she was a professional driver and TV personality, who sadly passed away in 2021 from cancer. The way these women carry themselves is inspiring, they’re never afraid to take up space in a room. Sass and attitude, but not in your face – That’s the level I’d like to play at.

HW: Why do you think it is important to celebrate International Women’s Day?

KC: In any situation, it's important to show gratitude to the women in our lives and celebrate them. Whether it’s the women in our families, at work or any walk of life - we're bad ass!

Final word from Helen Wesolowski:

Firstly, I'd like to thank Katie for sparing the time to talk with me. Her story is so inspiring for young women who want to embark on a career in our industry. I feel strongly about advocating women who seek to pursue a career in our industry, as well as elevating and celebrating the women who are already winning and forging new grounds in automotive and taking spaces in key decision-making roles - changing the future of our sector. Happy International Women's Day!

This interview was exclusively shared with ABP Club.