Ladies of Collision: Kayla Curran Hughs, Car-O-Liner Southwest

by Alana Quartuccio

There really is nothing a woman can’t do. The women who make the collision repair industry shine so bright in the Lone Star State prove that statement true time and time again.

This regular feature continues to highlight the many amazing women who make it all so great. This month, we sat down with Car-O-Liner Southwest’s very own Kayla Curran Hughs, who has spent the better part of the last 10 years of her career as their sales consultant.

Texas Automotive: What led you to come to work in the collision repair industry? 

Kayla Curran Hughs: My father, the distributor for Car-O-Liner Southwest, was looking to create a position to help the company grow. He came to me asking for assistance in creating the position with the idea that I’d get it started and we’d find someone to fill the position; it was intended to be a temporary thing while I worked toward my own career.

TXA: So, you didn’t initially envision a career in this field? 

KH: No, I wanted to focus on horse breeding. I went to school to study animal science and had plans to work at a farm, but as it turns out, I stayed with Car-O-Liner. I started in sales a year and a half later, and that’s what I’ve been doing ever since. I really like working with body shops. It was a bit intimidating at first, but I gave it a chance and pushed through it. The more I began to build relationships with people, the more fun it became. I enjoy being out on the road, meeting different people in the shops who come from all different walks of life.

TXA: What do you love most about the industry? 

KH: The people. I hope that doesn’t sound cliche, but I really like the people and enjoy the relationships I build. I encounter many people who have been supportive, encouraging and friendly.

TXA: Tell us a little about your position and what your day-to-day looks like.

KH: I’m a sales consultant. I travel to shops to either do sales calls, courtesy check-ins, or to perform a quick service call. If the shop is interested in equipment, I like to consult with them and learn more about what their needs are and what their shop culture is like. 

TXA: What would you say are some of the biggest challenges women face in this industry? 

KH: For me personally, I don’t know that I’ve really encountered that many challenges. In the beginning,when nobody knew me, it took time and effort to earn trust and respect.  

TXA: What’s life like outside the body shop? Do you have any hobbies that you want to share?

KH: I love to play volleyball. I have three young children, so between volleyball and babysitting, that’s kind of my life. My husband and I play volleyball, and we camp. We also have a farm where we raise turkeys, guineas and chickens. 

TXA: What encouraging words would you give to another woman looking to get into the industry?

KH: It doesn’t matter what role you’re in, just stay dedicated to what you want and to your end goal. Push through any challenges that come your way. This industry can be intimidating as a ‘man’s world,’ and even those who have background, education and experience may still encounter challenges. There are not a lot of women in this industry, but there are many resources and encouraging people who will support and help you down your path.

Want more? Check out the February 2025 issue of Texas Automotive!