Women Who Turn Wrenches- The sheCANics of the Girls Auto Clinic Repair Center in PA
What is a sheCANic?
#sheCANic [she-kan-ik] noun
-A female of any age who has mastered the mechanics of “yes I can” and uses them to get to “yes I did.”
-She is empowered through awareness, education, and support. She inspires other women to do the same.
-She knows she is smart enough to learn and understand her car as well as her male counterparts do.
-She treats her car as she does her own body. She does not want to be her own physician but she does want to know how to secure her own health and how to prevent sickness and disease.
–She no longer fears the auto repair shop or the auto mechanic!
Personally I love this title and I try to use this in my train of thought each day and with my own daughter. I truly believe in her abilities and I let her know that if she believes in something, she can make it happen.
I was in contact with the Girls Auto Clinic Repair Center in Upper Darby, PA and got through via a mutual friend. They are an all-women auto repair shop, with one guy and he’s awesome. The Girls Auto Clinic Repair Center was founded by Patrice Banks, an engineer, storyteller, public speaker, entrepreneur, and auto mechanic. She found a niche that in the auto repair world, many women didn’t know very much about their vehicles, and would often get ripped off for repairs that never had to be done. She holds clinics at the shop, educating women, about cars, repairs, and what to look out for.
They have been in the press a lot lately as a woman-owned and operated auto repair shop for women. And the latest is that there is a tv show based on the women at the shop in the works! So yeah, they are super busy, and I was really thankful that they allowed me to come in for this personal photo project of mine.
We had so much fun that day! They all have families, kids, and love what they do every single day. This is a unique place as they also have a full beauty salon and spa in the back as well.
To view the start of my personal photo project of it all, click HERE. Also CLICK HERE to check out Silvina and her amazing VW home garage!
First here’s Rebecca:
Women Who Turn Wrenches-Girls Auto Clinic Repair Center Upper Darby, PA. A personal photo project by Deirdre Ryan Photography www.deirdreryanphotography.com
Why did you decide to be a part of this project?
It’s a positive way to share my passion of cars.
What drew you into cars?
Curiosity mixed with a dash of rebellion.
How did you learn how to work on cars?
Other
What is the most rewarding part of what you do with vehicles?
When it’s a tough diagnosis and I figure out the root issue.
How many hours do you spend in the garage or driveway working on your vehicle?
All day! On everyone’s car.
What would be your dream vehicle if money wasn’t an issue? Details, please!
1972 Volkswagen super beetle. Black. White wall tires. Functional 8-track. Hurst shifter.
Would you have your own garage as well? C’mon, the sky’s the limit here 😃
Of course
If you race cars, what’s your favorite and why did you choose it?
I prefer Talley racing in any German made vehicles.
How did you get into racing?
Working at BMW.
How many hours have you or can you spend at the track?
I used to go once a month to Watkins Glen.
Is this a hobby, a full time job, or your full time business?
Full time job.
Are you good with fixing other things as well? Have you always tinkered?
Definitely
What was your first “project” or “baby”?
My 1972 beetle.
What was or is your most favorite car that you’ve owned? Mine was my 2001 Volvo V70 T5, she roared and purred….the photo below was taken on the day she died 🙁
My 1972 VW beetle
Do you remember each car that you’ve ever owned like they were your “babies”? I still have a soft spot in my heart for my very first, an ’81 Olds Omega.
Ha! My 72’ beetle
Which do you prefer?
Foreign and Imports
Why?
American cars are junk!
Favorite brand of car?
BMW
How many cars do you own?
1
How many cars have you owned?
6
Do other members of your family work on cars too?
Nope
If no, do you work on your family and friends vehicles?
Unfortunately
Is fixing your car or racing something you do with family or friends?
Friends
Do you see more women doing this now than before? If yes, why?
Yes !!! Cause I helped pave the road.
Years ago, high schools offered auto mechanic classes, home ec, and other trades and now they don’t. Why do you think they don’t and do you think they should still offer them instead of going to a separate vo-tech school?
Yes
Are there any nicknames for women who fix cars? How does it differ from the nicknames for guys?
Not sure
Being a woman who loves cars and knows how to work on them, do you find that you have any problems with the “boys” at first or even now? Like when you go car shopping, if a guy is helping you do you see any differences in how you’re treated when you start telling them more facts about vehicles than they were expecting? When test driving? 😉
That’s always a fun scenario.
Do guys respect you in your field? If yes explain? If no, why not?
It’s earned respect.
Do you prefer older classic cars or the newer ones out today? Can you explain?
It’s apples and oranges.
My favorite cars since I was in grade school was the 1954 silver Mercedes Benz GullWing with red leather interior and the Duesenbergs from the 1920s. Are there any vehicles that still stand out in your mind from when you were a kid?
1957 Nash Metropolitan and the Plymouth Valeri.
Why do you think there aren’t as many women mechanics or race car drivers as men?
Too many men!
Do you feel that as a woman, you feel very much more in control when you are able to work on your own vehicle? That there’s a satisfaction in knowing you are accomplishing what is typically a “guys job” or do you not feel that way at all?
Sometimes. Ok. Yes!!!
Last question, what would you tell young ladies and girls today who might be interested in a career that involved cars?
Follow your passion and dreams regardless of what it is!
Val:
Women Who Turn Wrenches-Girls Auto Clinic Repair Center Upper Darby, PA. A personal photo project by Deirdre Ryan Photography www.deirdreryanphotography.com
Why did you decide to be a part of this project?
I’m a team player
What drew you into cars?
Problem solving and speed.
How did you learn how to work on cars?
Family Member
What is the most rewarding part of what you do with vehicles?
Fixing them
How many hours do you spend in the garage or driveway working on your vehicle?
Currently none because of work and kids
How much money do you think you’ve spent? Loaded question I know 😉
Unable to determine
What would be your dream vehicle if money wasn’t an issue? Details, please!
1974 Buick Apollo
Would you have your own garage as well? C’mon, the sky’s the limit here 😃
Absolutely
Is this a hobby, a full time job, or your full time business?
I work as a mechanic full time
Are you good with fixing other things as well? Have you always tinkered?
Yes, plumbing, home repair, light carpentry.
What was your first “project” or “baby”?
1984 Buick Regal. Engine rebuild senior year of high school. Was my senior project.
What was or is your most favorite car that you’ve owned? Mine was my 2001 Volvo V70 T5, she roared and purred….the photo below was taken on the day she died 🙁
1984 Buick Regal
Do you remember each car that you’ve ever owned like they were your “babies”? I still have a soft spot in my heart for my very first, an ’81 Olds Omega.
Yes. My 84 Buick Regal, my 90 Buick LeSabre, my 64 GMC panel truck.
Which do you prefer?
Domestic
Why?
Grew up with them.
Favorite brand of car?
Buick
How many cars do you own?
3
How many cars have you owned?
4
Do other members of your family work on cars too?
Yes my dad
If no, do you work on your family and friends vehicles?
Yes
Is fixing your car or racing something you do with family or friends?
No
Do you see more women doing this now than before? If yes, why?
Yes. Social media has made it easier to connect with women all over.
Years ago, high schools offered auto mechanic classes, home ec, and other trades and now they don’t. Why do you think they don’t and do you think they should still offer them instead of going to a separate vo-tech school?
They push college way too much. Trades should be offered as early as middle school. Vo tech or in school, both are good options.
Being a woman who loves cars and knows how to work on them, do you find that you have any problems with the “boys” at first or even now? Like when you go car shopping, if a guy is helping you do you see any differences in how you’re treated when you start telling them more facts about vehicles than they were expecting? When test driving? 😉
I’m pretty off-putting towards men, so I don’t know if they treat me differently.
Do guys respect you in your field? If yes explain? If no, why not?
Probably.
Do you prefer older classic cars or the newer ones out today? Can you explain?
Yes. There’s less that can go wrong with them.
My favorite cars since I was in grade school was the 1954 silver Mercedes Benz GullWing with red leather interior and the Duesenbergs from the 1920s. Are there any vehicles that still stand out in your mind from when you were a kid?
1973 Ford Falcon XB GT from Mad Max.
Why do you think there aren’t as many women mechanics or race car drivers as men?
The stigma of poor treatment drives them away before they pursue it.
Do you feel that as a woman, you feel very much more in control when you are able to work on your own vehicle? That there’s a satisfaction in knowing you are accomplishing what is typically a “guys job” or do you not feel that way at all?
Absolutely
Last question, what would you tell young ladies and girls today who might be interested in a career that involved cars?
Go for it, 100%.
Susan:
Women Who Turn Wrenches-Girls Auto Clinic Repair Center Upper Darby, PA. A personal photo project by Deirdre Ryan Photography www.deirdreryanphotography.com
Why did you decide to be a part of this project?
I was asked by our fellow sheCANic Rebecca
What drew you into cars?
I always like to take things a part and saw a few girls coming out of a garage at the trade school when in High school. I looked into what is was about and enrolled in LTI right after high school. Been working in the field since 1995.
How did you learn howto work on cars?
School
What is the most rewarding part of what you do with vehicles?
Helping other woman with their vehicles especially when they can’t afford things I love to barter o help them out.
How many hours do you spend in the garage or driveway working on your vehicle?
At least 60 hrs a wk
How much money do you think you’ve spent? Loaded question I know 😉
Just tools alone about 60k and with continuous training about 5k since 1995
What would be your dream vehicle if money wasn’t an issue? Details, please!
2002 W6 Pontiac Firebird twin turbo with at least 1200 HP 6 speed trans
Would you have your own garage as well? C’mon, the sky’s the limit here 😃
Oh YES I would!!!
If you race cars, what’s your favorite and why did you choose it?
I love Chevy and Mopar for Racing. Not fond of other options.
How did you get into racing?
Street racing since Tech school. Nothing professional. That would be awesome too!
How many hours have you or can you spend at the track?
Watching ALL DAY. Actual driving I have never sadly.
Is this a hobby, a full time job, or your full time business?
Racing is a hobby, Repairing Vehicles is my Full Time Dream Job!
If you have another type of full time job, do you wish that you could do this full time instead?
I am also a licensed Cosmetologist, I cut hair and do nails in my spare time which switches things up. I also am a Casino Dealer for a private company for the past 18 yrs and do jobs for them which is fun.
If yes, why haven’t you done this?
In the words of others, I DO IT ALL!
Are you good with fixing other things as well? Have you always tinkered?
I have tinkered with things over the years and found I have a knack for a lot of stuff.
What was your first “project” or “baby”?
Project Vehicle was my 350 2 bolt main 1969 Chevy Camaro engine, that I put into two vehicles over the years. The other project house related was redoing the kitchens and Laminate flooring throughout the house.
What was or is your most favorite car that you’ve owned?
First was my 1976 Camaro and then my 1974 Pontiac Firebird. Both gone sadly
Do you remember each car that you’ve ever owned like they were your “babies”? I still have a soft spot in my heart for my very first, an ’81 Olds Omega.
For the most part, I do remember every vehicle I have ever owned. My first was a 1976 Chevy Camaro then 1981 Chevy Camaro with 4 spd Munci then the 1974 Pontiac Firebird a 1981 Chevy Malibu 4 dr a 1979 Mercury Zepher station wagon a 1984 Pontiac Grand Prix a 1971 Chevy Monte Carlo a 2004 Ford Explorer Sport Trac a 2005 Dodge Ram 1500 a 2010 Dodge Ram 1500 a 2011 Chrysler Town and Country a 2013 Chrysler T&C a 1994 Pontiac Firebird a 2006 Chevy Malibu. Also, a 2007 Suzuki Blvd C50 (motorcycle) currently own and drive the 94 Firebird, 13 T&C 06 Malibu (about to sell it) and the 07 C50
Which do you prefer?
Domestic
Favorite brand of car?
Chevrolet/Chevy
How many cars do you own?
3
How many cars have you owned?
More than 10
Do other members of your family work on cars too?
My Husband
If no, do you work on your family and friends vehicles?
Yes I do
Is fixing your car or racing something you do with family or friends?
Yes for both
Do you see more women doing this now than before? If yes, why?
Yes, knowing there are more women in the field is comforting and we can build a bond and support each other in this field.
Years ago, high schools offered auto mechanic classes, home ec, and other trades and now they don’t. Why do you think they don’t and do you think they should still offer them instead of going to a separate vo-tech school?
Not sure why they do not. IT should be available during school or even after school classes. It’ll help kids in the long run. Keep kids off the street or at least in a safe environment. There are more pros then cons to bring these type of classes back.
Are there any nicknames for women who fix cars? How does it differ from the nicknames for guys?
Not that I know of.
Are there nicknames for women who race cars? How does it differ from the nicknames for guys?
Not that I know of.
Being a woman who loves cars andknows how to work on them, do you find that you have any problems with the “boys” at first or even now? Like when you go car shopping, if a guy is helping you do you see any differences in how you’re treated when you start telling them more facts about vehicles than they were expecting? When test driving? 😉
Yes I have and still do at times. Only because they don’t know what I do or just assume all girls don’t know anything about cars.
Do guys respect you in your field? If yes explain? If no, why not?
For the most part Yes.
Do you prefer older classic cars or the newer ones out today? Can you explain?
Classic however the newer sport vehicles are cool too
My favorite cars since I was in grade school was the 1954 silver Mercedes Benz GullWing with red leather interior and the Duesenbergs from the 1920s. Are there any vehicles that still stand out in your mind from when you were a kid?
As a kid no. Since I started working on car G body vehicles always catch my eye.
Why do you think there aren’t as many women mechanics or race car drivers as men?
Lack of knowing it is a possibility. Not enough support for them.
Do you feel that as a woman, you feel very much more in control when you are able to work on your own vehicle? That there’s a satisfaction in knowing you are accomplishing what is typically a “guys job” or do you not feel that way at all?
Oh yeah and the fact I do it better is an amazing feeling.
Last question, what would you tell young ladies and girls today who might be interested in a career that involved cars?
Go and look into schools, get tours and ask lots of questions. Visit shops or schools. Talk to people in the field.
Colleen:
Women Who Turn Wrenches-Girls Auto Clinic Repair Center Upper Darby, PA. A personal photo project by Deirdre Ryan Photography www.deirdreryanphotography.com
Why did you decide to be a part of this project?
To increase awareness that ladies can work on cars too..
What drew you into cars?
Being ripped off by a local repair chain.
How did you learn how to work on cars?
School
What is the most rewarding part of what you do with vehicles?
Helping people understand why maintenance and repairs are necessary.
How many hours do you spend in the garage or driveway working on your vehicle?
Not many recently.
How much money do you think you’ve spent? Loaded question I know 😉
I plead the fifth.
What would be your dream vehicle if money wasn’t an issue? Details, please!
1978 dodge Lil Red Express truck. Lil’ Red Express did have a special High Performance 360 C.I. 4-barrel small block engine producing 225 net horsepower @ 3800 RPM. The package also included Hemi style mufflers with a crossover pipe breathing through 2 chrome stacks located behind the cab, a special 727 transmission and 3.55:1 rear gearing.
Would you have your own garage as well? C’mon, the sky’s the limit here 😃
Garage downstairs and my living quarters up stairs with a sports bar.
If you race cars, what’s your favorite and why did you choose it?
N/a
How did you get into racing?
N/a
How many hours have you or can you spend at the track?
N/a
Is this a hobby, a full time job, or your f business?
Hobby now
If you have another type of full time job, do you wish that you could do this full time instead?
No.. I’m past fixing cars on a daily basis
If Yes, why haven’t you done this?
N/a
Are you good with fixing other things as well? Have you always tinkered?
Yes
What was your first “project” or “baby”?
Haven’t started yet
What was or is your most favorite car that you’ve owned?
2003 lincoln ls
Do you remember each car that you’ve ever owned like they were your “babies”? I still have a soft spot in my heart for my very first, an ’81 Olds Omega.
Yes
Which do you prefer?
Domestic
Why?
Easier to find parts and fix.
Favorite brand of car?
Dodge
How many cars do you own?
2
How many cars have you owned?
more than 10.
Do other members of your family work on cars too?
No
If no, do you work on your family and friends’ vehicles?
No
Is fixing your car or racing something you do with family or friends?
No
Do you see more women doing this now than before? If yes, why?
Yes because there is more awareness and media attention directed towards women.
Years ago, high schools offered auto mechanic classes, home ec, and not her trades and now they don’t. Why do you think they don’t and do you think they should still offer them instead of going to a separate vo-tech school?
Absolutely schools should still offer these programs.. They are needed because the kids of today are lost and don’t know how to do these things.
Are there any nicknames for women who fix cars? How does it differ from the nicknames for guys?
I haven’t been called or heard of any.
Are there nicknames for women who race cars? How does it differ from the nicknames for guys?
N/a
Do guys respect you in your field? If yes explain? If no, why not?
Depends on the guy.. Its still hit or miss with female acceptance in the shop..
Do you prefer older classic cars or the newer ones out today? Can you explain?
Older.. Less electronic convenience features.
My favorite cars since I was in grade school was the 1954 silver Mercedes Benz Gullwing with red leather interior and the Duesenbergs from the 1920s. Are there any vehicles that still stand out in your mind from when you were a kid?
My family’s 1976 brown dodge dart.. And 1979 white Ford Granada.
Why do you think there aren’t as many women mechanics or race car drivers as men?
Society stigma of the old days where women were meant to be in the kitchen or told we weren’t strong enough to do the job.
Do you feel that as a woman, you feel very much more in control when you are able to work on your own vehicle? That there’s a satisfaction in knowing you are accomplishing what is typically a “guys job” or do you not feel that way at all?
All the time.
Last question, what would you tell young ladies and girls today who might be interested in a career that involved cars?
Do it!!! Don’t let anyone stop you or tell you different.. I never grew up around cars but have a passion today for them..
Here’s Rich, the token male LOL!
Women Who Turn Wrenches-Girls Auto Clinic Repair Center Upper Darby, PA. A personal photo project by Deirdre Ryan Photography www.deirdreryanphotography.com
Why did you decide to be a part of this project?
I was asked by a coworker
What drew you into cars?
Took a wrong turn going to college. And the technology is what u wanted to learn.
How did you learn how to work on cars?
School
What is the most rewarding part of what you do with vehicles?
Being able to help people figure out their problems with their vehicles so they can carry on their lives.
How many hours do you spend in the garage or driveway working on your vehicle?
Not many
How much money do you think you’ve spent? Loaded question I know 😉
Easly 20k on tools and training not counting school.
What would be your dream vehicle if money wasn’t an issue? Details, please!
A Tesla sports car. Or a 69 Chevelle
Would you have your own garage as well? C’mon, the sky’s the limit here 😃
Yes
If you race cars, what’s your favorite and why did you choose it?
Formula 1. Because of it a rally track at 180+ mph
How did you get into racing?
I like to go fast. But I don’t race.
How many hours have you or can you spend at the track?
0
Is this a hobby, a full time job, or your f business?
Full time job
If you have another type of full time job, do you wish that you could do this full time instead?
Teacher or musician
If Yes, why haven’t you done this?
I don’t like kids and my musical talent isn’t really there
Are you good with fixing other things as well? Have you always tinkered?
Yes. Mainly electronics and such.
What was your first “project” or “baby”?
86 Chevy Camaro IROC. Loved that car.
What was or is your most favorite car that you’ve owned?
My 86 IROC. Really really loved that monster.
Do you remember each car that you’ve ever owned like they were your “babies”? I still have a soft spot in my heart for my very first, an ’81 Olds Omega.
Yes, I do. Some were tragic endings. Like smokey blowing a motor going uphill.
Which do you prefer?
Other: They are mostly the same anymore. Except Ford. Fuck ford.
Why?
Because Fords are stupid.
Favorite brand of car?
Chevrolet/Chevy
How many cars do you own?
1
How many cars have you owned?
More than 10.
Do other members of your family work on cars too?
Yes.
If no, do you work on your family and friends vehicles?
Yes I do
Is fixing your car or racing something you do with family or friends?
No
Do you see more women doing this now than before? If yes, why?
Yes. My ex-wife used to work on cars part-time.
Years ago, high schools offered auto mechanic classes, home ec, and not her trades and now they don’t. Why do you think they don’t and do you think they should still offer them instead of going to a separate vo-tech school?
My answer would be too long but basically, trades require critical thinking and problem-solving. Not something schools teach to well.
Are there any nicknames for women who fix cars? How does it differ from the nicknames for guys?
Idk any.
Are there nicknames for women who race cars? How does it differ from the nicknames for guys?
Idk
Do guys respect you in your field? If yes explain? If no, why not?
Doubt it.
Do you prefer older classic cars or the newer ones out today? Can you explain?
Olds cars are more spaces out until 75 and newer. Then it’s a shit show. Newer cars are hard plastic and become brittle.
My favorite cars since I was in grade school was the 1954 silver Mercedes Benz Gullwing with red leather interior and the Duesenbergs from the 1920s. Are there any vehicles that still stand out in your mind from when you were a kid?
My grandfather’s blue bomber. An 82 Ford wagon. Total piece of shit but fun as hell.
Why do you think there aren’t as many women mechanics or race car drivers as men?
Interests are different at youth. Idk best guess.
Last question, what would you tell young ladies and girls today who might be interested in a career that involved cars?
Good luck.
Here are a few details from the shop.
This guy is in the front seat of Val’s car:
I just love this final shot of the day with the garage, blue skies, and everyone hanging out.
I want to give a special thank you and shout out to the ladies and Rich for letting me be a part of their busy day, hanging out, taking pictures and for being awesome! Love you guys!!!
Want to be a part of my project? Contact me and let’s set it up!
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