OPINION
From Homeless to Mechanic: A Woman's Journey
Sacramento, USASun Jan 05 2025
Being a teenager, homeless, and stuck with a broken-down car. That's how Courtney's story starts. She was 16 when she fell in love with cars, especially her 2004 Ford Mustang convertible. But with no money for repairs, she had to learn to fix it herself. YouTube videos and online forums were her teachers. She spent years living rough, but her passion for cars kept her going.
At 19, Courtney landed her first job in the auto industry as a detailer. She worked her way up from cleaning cars to becoming a master technician. It wasn't easy. People doubted her because she's a woman. They thought mechanics were only for men. But Courtney proved them wrong. She even became the first female mechanic at Sacramento's Jaguar Land Rover.
Courtney loves her job, even though it can be physically demanding. She's worked on motorhomes and heavy-duty vehicles. She's rebuilt engines from scratch. Each challenge makes her stronger. Now, she mentors others, inspiring them to follow their dreams too.
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questions
Did you ever have a customer laugh at your toolbox like it was a toy?
How did overcoming homelessness influence your determination to succeed as a mechanic?
How many times did you have to explain that 'No, you don't need to take your car to the guy next door'?
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