The latest finalists for the 2016 Women and Smash awards have been revealed and this time, it's the young guns who are showcasing their amazing contribution to the industry.
22-year-old Lauren Neill from David Hand Smash Repairs in Canberra and Kate Millar from Sheen Panel Service Croydon, Victoria are two young women who have paved themselves a bright future working across multiple aspects of the industry.
Neill is a fourth year spray painting apprentice with a keen eye for detail, while technically trained mechanic Millar oversees all administrative duties at Sheen Croydon.
Millar is celebrating her 10th year in the industry.
Speaking about securing a place as a finalist, Neill believes that the shop floor is a place for women and has some simple advice for young girls interested in the field.
“I think a lot of girls steer away because it's a male dominated industry.
“They think you need a lot of muscle and everything and even though that helps sometimes, there's definitely more to it.”
You can read more about their stories in our next issue of Paint & Panel.
Until then, nominate yourself or a woman doing an exceptional job at your shop to be in the running to become our next finalist.
Heads up - there are just TWO spots left for this year's finalists, so if you haven't nominated, hurry and make sure you detail why the woman at your shop stands out from the crowd.
The previously announced 2016 finalists are:
Dianne Ruggeri, Europanels (VIC)
Janelle Koopmans, Absolute Panel & Paint (NSW)
Petrina White, Cramp Bros Bodyworks (TAS)
We want to know who you are, what you’re doing and the difference you’re making.
The Women in Smash programme, sponsored by NRMA Insurance will recognise seven finalists, each to be featured in an issue of Australasian Paint & Panel magazine.
From these finalists the national winner will be chosen.
Don’t be modest. Enter now.