“I’ve always worked in a man’s world, and honestly, I wouldn’t have it any other way.”
To celebrate International Women’s Day, we caught up with our trusted technician Sarah Greenaway. Having always worked in a male-dominated industry, Sarah’s ambition is to pave the way for future generations and empower more women to follow their passion.
“My career started back in 2010 after I finished a city and guilds joinery and carpentry course. I then started working for CM Joinery, which is a bespoke joinery company based in Essex. I was there for six years and worked my way up from Junior Joiner to Head Sprayer.
It was then that I started looking at SMART repairs. I started with another SMART repairs company, where I was able to learn and put into practice the skills I needed to succeed in the industry.”
“My biggest inspiration is my first boss, Pat Cousens. He taught me everything I know and gave me the confidence to succeed in a male-dominated industry. He took a chance on me at a very young age, and for that, I will be forever thankful.
Without him, I wouldn’t be the person I am today, he taught me work ethic, pride, and resilience.
Also, my partner. She continually supports me and gives me the faith I need to succeed in a male-dominated industry.”
“I joined DWV in 2021.”
“Besides working alongside some of the most talented people I have ever met, I love the satisfaction I get. The immense sense of pride I feel when a customer sees the transformation at the end is priceless.
Although being a technician means I am often on the road on my own, I never feel alone. I feel part of a team, and most of all valued. The team, including my Manager Adam Carkett, are always so supportive, and ensure I always have the best equipment possible to make every repair the highest quality.”
“For me, my day starts around 7 am. I get up, have breakfast, and get ready for the day. An average workday consists of several alloy wheel and bodywork repairs.”
“Tough question, as I don’t have a favourite. When I was working for the previous SMART repair company, I remember feeling anxious about repairing alloy wheels. I don’t get that anymore, because with DWV I have access to the best training and equipment.
I also love the colour-matching process, blending, and polishing bodywork panels. I find the whole process so rewarding so I really take pride in it and strive for perfection.”
“Outside of work, I love long country walks and spending quality time with my partner and our three dogs. I also love cooking, and listening to music anything from Celine Dion, Biggy, and Lewis Capaldi.”
“Follow your passion, don’t be afraid, and never doubt yourself. Take any criticism as a new opportunity to learn, stay focused on your goals, and believe in yourself. Most importantly, enjoy what you’re doing.”
Getting to where I am today. Like anybody, I’ve had to face a few obstacles, and working in a male-dominated industry has sometimes meant that I have had to prove my worth. I’ve made mistakes and have had to learn the hard way at times, but I kept pushing myself. I am determined to be the best I can and strive to better myself every day.”
“Take the risk or lose the chance. Also, I’m not sure it’s quite a quote but something I live by is to aim for perfection. if you aim for perfection, you know you have done your best.”
“Push yourself out of your comfort zone. Take the risks, put in the hard work and everything will work out. Never settle for less than you are worth, keep aiming high.”
Sarah is based in the Essex area and covers all surrounding areas including Chelmsford, Clacton, Braintree, Dagenham, and Brentwood.
For a free quote, contact our team today. With over 30 years of experience in mobile bodywork, paint, and alloy wheel repairs, we repair over 200,000 cars each year and are a trusted partner to some of the biggest motor dealerships in the country.
We currently have over 80 technicians and 50 franchise partners nationwide who are fully mobile and come directly to you.
All our SMART repairs can be carried out on your doorstep, saving you the hassle and expense of finding a dedicated body shop.
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