Celebrating International Women’s Day 2024
MARCH 8th, 2024
Today Burson Auto Parts celebrates International Women’s Day – a global day celebrating the social, economic, cultural and political achievements of women. This year’s campaign theme is Inspire Inclusion.
Businesses can forge a better world when they inspire others to understand and value women's inclusion. And when women themselves are inspired to be included, they can experience a sense of belonging, relevance and empowerment.
Burson Auto Parts continues to lead an inclusive environment for women by recognising and celebrating female staff in all areas of our business.
Our three stories for this year’s International Women’s Day come from Tash Coves – Store Manager at Burson Auto Parts Geraldton (WA), Deb Miller – Delivery Driver at Burson Auto Parts Bayswater (VIC) and Amy Lu – Operations Support Coordinator at Precision Automotive Equipment (QLD). Each story showcases a unique journey of determination and resilience as a woman in the automotive industry.
For Tash Coves, who has previous experience in the heavy diesel transport, construction machinery and marine industries, working at Burson is simply the latest step in a nineteen-year career in the automotive industry.
“It can still be difficult to be in the industry today as a woman. But a love of cars keeps me going. Being around like-minded people who share the same passion and goal makes it all worth it”, Tash said.
As for advice for women entering the industry, Tash had this to say.
“If you love it, then love it. Give 100 per cent effort and take the opportunity.”
Finding a good mentor is also important, with Tash explaining that “It takes two years before you start getting good at what you do. Rely on other people’s experience and knowledge to help you grow.”
No matter how long one’s career may be, there is always more to learn. Following thirty-four years of working at a mechanical workshop, during which she was a trade customer with Burson Auto Parts, Deb Miller decided a career change was in order.
After applying for a job at Burson Bayswater, Deb found herself working as a part-time delivery driver, switching from being a customer to serving them.
“Being a woman in the automotive industry provides me a challenge and keeps me busy. I’m always learning and finding new ways to help customers,” said Deb.
“If you want to work in this industry, you have to be a people person. Take the opportunity and embrace your confidence as a woman.”
This advice would be taken to heart by Operations Coordinator Amy Lu, who joined Precision Automotive Equipment at the end of 2021. Despite having no experience as a mechanic, Amy found a wealth of opportunities in segments such as marketing, advertising and technology support.
“Being in the automotive industry has been quite an experience,” Amy said, “There was a very steep learning curve when I started. It definitely felt like being in the deep end but I liked the challenge.”
Resilience is the key to overcoming these challenges, as Amy attests. The support of fellow male and female colleagues is so valuable and sets the tone.
“Working in the industry has been amazing. Cliché as it may be, it does help to find people you connect with.”
Burson Auto Parts is extremely grateful for the efforts of its female staff members in running its business operations. The company is committed to seeing women shine and pledges to continue including and empowering women in the workplace and beyond.