According to our survey (DLG primary research, March 2025), 92% of parents would encourage their daughters to pursue a well-paid career requiring problem-solving, communication, and technical skills.

However, only 45% would encourage them to manage vehicle repairs, and even fewer would recommend roles in car repair businesses (44%) or roadside recovery (39%).

Why? Worries that the industry is male-dominated, unsafe, or offers limited career progression continue to put people off. But is that the reality?

We spoke to Technical Engineering Graduate Maddie Fox to find out.

Hi Maddie, tell us a bit about yourself…

“Hi! I’m Maddie. I have a degree in Automotive Engineering from Loughborough University, and I spent a year at Toyota before joining the Auto Services graduate scheme.”

What do you love about your job?

“I’m currently studying for the ATA Vehicle Damage Assessing qualification. I’ve always loved cars, even from a young age, so I’m right where I want to be.

I know how lucky I am to have a place on the highly contested DLGAS Graduate Scheme, so I’m embracing the opportunity. I’ve looked forward to going to work each day since I started!”

Our survey found that many parents don’t encourage their daughters to enter this industry because they think it’s male-dominated. Does that match your experience?

“It’s true that I’ve found myself in many male-dominated spaces, from engineering workshops to my university course, so it’s important to hold my own in these spaces and ultimately focus on being as good as those around me, if not better!

That said, as automotive workplaces are making efforts to be more diverse and encouraging women to apply for roles, the industry is becoming less male-dominated by the day. Women who join the industry now are part of the change, which is an empowering feeling!”

What about the view that the industry isn’t safe?

“Having first worked in the motor industry a few years ago, I can confidently say that the modern automotive industry is very safe. Everywhere I’ve worked, there have been proper risk assessments, clear rules, and PPE to keep employees safe.”

Did you have any hesitations before entering this field? If so, what helped you move past them?

“Knowing you’ll likely be in the minority as a woman can be a bit daunting at first, but it’s something that can be easily overcome if you’re confident in your abilities. My advice would be to focus on being great at what you do. As more women take the leap, joining the industry becomes less daunting.

Plus, the benefits of working in this industry are great, so they helped outweigh any concerns. I have great job security, lots of job opportunities, healthy wages, and good benefits.”

That’s interesting because some of the parents we surveyed said they thought these careers offered low pay and limited progression. What would you say to that?

“I really disagree with this idea. In my experience, the automotive industry provides consistent, long-term careers with great job security. Plenty of roles in the trade are really in demand, and the pay reflects this. Once you’ve qualified in your chosen area, you have a career for life!”

What advice would you give any women or young girls considering a career in the automotive industry?

“Don’t let preconceptions stop you. Being a changemaker is empowering. In my experience, you’ll receive plenty of support from your employer. Many people in the motor trade love to share their knowledge, so if you show interest and passion, you’ll benefit from their experience.

The industry dynamics have changed recently as more women have joined and more people have an open mindset, so now is the perfect time to join.”

Want to be part of the change? Explore our latest automotive vacancies here.