Nicole Lira, San Antonio Collision Center

by Alana Quartuccio

It’s been almost two years since Texas Automotive started this column to shine light on the many incredible ladies who make the collision repair space in the Lone Star State so extra special.

It’s really not a man’s world, after all. Just about everywhere you turn, there’s a lady working hard to make sure vehicles are safely and properly repaired. Whether it’s around the office, in the paint booth or under a lift, women are out there kicking ass and taking names.

This month, we shine some light on Nicole Lira, manager of San Antonio Collision Center,  who stepped up to the plate to lend a hand in the family business. Today, she is the manager of this successful shop, helping to continue her father’s legacy. Read on to learn all about Nicole’s journey.

Texas Automotive: Many people remember your father, Ramon Lira, Sr., who worked in the industry for many years before he opened San Antonio Collision Center. Please tell us how he got the business started, and how you got involved.

Nicola Lira:  My father worked as manager of Alamo Toyota for many years. Looking to venture out on his own, he teamed up with my brother, Ramon Lira, Jr., and my godfather, Jesse Rodriguez (who also worked at the dealership) to co-own San Antonio Collision Center.  Initially, I came on board to help out around the shop by taking calls and making payments. I had been working as a dental assistant, so I wasn’t even in the field of collision repair at all at the time, but I began to pick up knowledge.

Unfortunately, my father passed away during COVID and that just changed everything for everyone at the shop. Ramon Jr. and I had to step up. Ramon is a body technician and I had no experience with that so we both had to figure out how to run the business. Now, I do a little bit of everything – from accounts receivable to parts, estimating, closing files — but my main role is as the office manager. My brother helps me manage the office, too.

TXA: That must have been a challenging time. What were some of the obstacles you faced early on?

NL: I didn’t have any knowledge at all when I came into this. Many people reached out to me after my father passed away and I was able to talk to many of his friends from the industry who helped and guided me. I started to take classes to learn and obtain as much information as I possibly could. Slowly, I began to understand how the whole process works. Those who guided and supported me helped so much. I was always trying to improve. I don’t know how I did it, but I did it!

TXA: What is something you think other women should know about when it comes to collision repair?

NL: A lot of our female customers don’t have a lot of knowledge about vehicles and they tend to expect their husbands to make the decisions, but they are just as capable of being able to understand it. It may feel like it’s all too difficult at first, but there is a process to it — just like with anything in life. Anyone can learn if they are passionate about it. I got into this because it was my father’s dream. I wanted to carry out his legacy. I didn’t want someone else to take it. I could have decided to stay as a dental assistant, but I know how much this business meant to my father and I wanted to show that being the youngest [in the family] didn’t mean I couldn’t step in, learn and be a part of the business.

TXA: What do you love most about the collision repair industry?

NL: I really love learning. I learn something new every day. Whether it’s about a new vehicle or even something I learned five years ago, I pick up new things. Things are advancing all the time. Whether it’s the workflow process of the body shop, or equipment, I love to learn the latest information. In addition, our business is family-owned so I love seeing my family every day. I’m comfortable with everyone and I love that we all have the same goal – to strive to be better. I am always looking to find new ways to improve the shop. I also really enjoy working with customers and helping them to understand what is happening with their vehicle.

TXA: Life sure can be busy. What is life like outside of the body shop?

NL: Even after work, I’m still mentally clocked in. If I’m not checking email, I am likely watching reels about cars on TikTok. Work is pretty much my life. It’s always with me. If I see or hear about an accident, I’ll advise people and try to help guide them through the process.

Even after work, I’m still mentally clocked in. If I’m not checking emails, I’m usually watching videos about cars and collision repair on social media. This industry is more than just a job to me. It’s a big part of my life. I genuinely enjoy helping people, so if I hear about someone being involved in an accident, I often find myself offering advice and helping to guide them through the repair and insurance process. Being able to support people during a stressful situation is one of the most rewarding parts of what I do.

TXA: What encouraging words would you have for a woman interested in entering the field?

NL: Don’t be afraid to take the leap. Being a woman doesn’t mean you can’t succeed in this industry or perform just as well as anyone else. When I first started, I had very little experience and worked in a shop surrounded mostly by men, but I did not let that intimidate me. Everyone starts somewhere. Don’t compare yourself to someone with 10, 20 or even 30-plus years of experience. Your perspective, work ethic and approach may bring something valuable that they don’t have. The collision repair industry has opportunities for everyone, regardless of gender or age. If you’re willing to learn, work hard and be confident in yourself, you can absolutely build a successful career in this field.

Want more? Check out the July 2026 issue of Texas Automotive!