For International Women’s Day 2024, we interviewed each of our women at CCM. To learn more about them, their past and how they find working in this automotive arena.
Celebrating Tina, our Operations Director at CCM, this International Women’s Day! A mother of 4 and grandma to two, Tina inspires our team, especially our women. Highly recognised amongst automotive professionals, she brings wisdom and dedication to the heart of our garages.
Watch the video of all our lovely ladies below, or read Tina’s transcript below.
Tina, tell me a bit about yourself.
I’m Tina, I’m the Operations Director here at CCM. This will be my 25th year. I love what I do, it’s not easy, but very challenging.
And what did you dream of doing when you were a little girl?
I was extremely sporty and didn’t really have any ambitions as long as I could flip, roll, somersault on my way. Definitely in my teenage years, I discovered a love of maths and numbers but didn’t really know where that was gonna take me.
Do you find it difficult to get involved or integrate yourself in such a male-dominated field?
I didn’t find it difficult when I started here at CCM, I think my male colleagues did more than I did. When I started, it was generally based on the finance side of it so I didn’t get too involved with the rest of the team. As my role progressed and my responsibilities changed, I was already part of the furniture and fixture so I think they were used to me being there. I do feel like I am just one of the team. No barriers, no different. I have recently done some presentations to other garage owners which is not about gender, race or religion. It is just about sharing the knowledge that I’ve learned over the years of being part of this industry.
Do you feel supported in your career goals here?
Absolutely. I always push myself and I’m always encouraged by others to do the same.
Have you heard of International Women's Day before?
Yes, I have it’s always been a part of my makeup. I always applaud the ladies at CCM on International Women’s Day. Small thank-yous go a long way. I’m also very fortunate to have two daughters and three daughters-in-law and always make a point of celebrating this day with them.
Do you have any women in your life who inspire you?
I have an aunt by marriage, Zaban from Singapore who has spent her life inspiring and promoting women in her country which has been really difficult due to the different cultures that they have and she has always inspired me to just believe in myself and just do it.
Have you faced any barriers in your career due to being a woman?
Yes, from both colleagues and customers. I think over time the colleagues have adjusted but customers still look through you on occasion when discussing vehicle related issues. I don’t think it’s done intentionally, I think it is an unconscious bias.
This year's International Women's Day theme is #InspireInclusion. What does this mean to you?
Exactly that. Inclusive doesn’t matter your gender, race, culture or religion. Everybody has a place.
What advice would you give to someone who wanted to start a career in automotive?
It’s a huge industry. It’s not just about being a technician, there are so many transferable skills that you can use in automotive from every admin job to every CEO so just go for it!