Let’s Hear It for the Girls!

by Jill Tuggle, ABAT Executive Director

There’s something special about the women in the collision repair business, and I can’t quite put my finger on it. I have tried to put it in a box or find the right adjectives to describe us, but there really isn’t a way to effectively sum it up.

It’s almost like we are our own breed – so similar yet still wildly unique! Here are a few ways one might describe the women in the collision industry: we break a nail jacking up a car; we love Jesus but just might cuss a little; we look stunning without a stitch of makeup; we are used to hanging with the guys; we wear various camo for different types of hunting; we drink beer, champagne and maybe both; we know how to do things most men these days don’t, like manage a shop, manage a household and everything in between! Whatever it is – we are so worth celebrating, and I am so glad that ABAT agrees!

On May 22 in Lubbock, ABAT will be holding a very special event – a night to celebrate their local women in collision. The ABAT Women’s Night of Honor plans to host over 300 women and their significant others to celebrate the “wild one-ness” that we share. There will be dinner, activities and a special presentation by some of the most notable women in our industry…and man, there are so many! Guests will enjoy a special presentation as I sit with my friends Erin Solis (Certified Collision Group), Raven Hartkopf (Collin College) and a special local guest as we engage in dynamic conversation to bring excitement and encouragement to our careers. 

The night will begin with a cocktail hour and time for some special, customized gifts for each of the “honorees” who will be attending. No, not just the speakers – every woman attending will be considered an honoree that evening, and I can’t think of anything more fitting. This event will foster networking and friendship and will certainly be a night to remember. 

My favorite part of all of this is that it wasn’t my idea – one of our Board members, Anthony Palomo, came to me with his vision and details, and I was almost moved to tears by his genuine desire to honor us. The planner in me jumped in and said, “Let’s make this happen!” Anthony has enlisted the help of Danica Bates (Sherwin-Williams Automotive Finishes) and Danya Sammons (Crash Champions) to bring this idea to life. 

So for the men reading this, I ask you to take a moment to celebrate, raise a glass or simply thank a collision industry woman you know because we probably don’t hear it as often as you think. If you are interested in this event, please visit our website, abat.us, to purchase a ticket or sponsorship and help send a woman to this beautiful evening to honor her. 

Want more? Check out the May 2024 issue of Texas Automotive!