Women at Abra Auto Body & Glass and CARSTAR are making their mark in the traditionally male-dominated collision repair industry, bringing fresh perspectives, leadership and collaborative energy to the workplace.
In recognition of International Women’s Day and Women’s History Month, Driven Brands has spotlighted several female professionals across its collision repair brands, which include Abra, CARSTAR and Fix Auto.
Abra Auto Body & Glass
At Abra Lacrosse in Wisconsin, Megan Pence and Alexa Wehling bring positivity and organization to their roles.
Pence, who has been with the company for one year, emphasized the value of a supportive environment. “Women help build each other up, creating a collaborative and encouraging atmosphere at work,” she said.
Wehling, with three years of experience, shared she takes pride in overcoming physical challenges and contributing to the team. “I love the challenge and the opportunity to show what I can contribute to this field,” she said.
At Jerry’s Abra Auto Body & Glass in Mankato, MN, several women shared their experiences working in an environment that fosters teamwork and personal growth.
Heather Hoffman, inspired by her father’s love of vehicles, appreciates the shop’s supportive atmosphere. “I’m grateful for the opportunity to work with people who feel like family and to continue learning and growing every day,” she said.
Kylie Slette, introduced to the field by her mother, values how women are influencing the industry’s evolution. “The more women involved, the more new ideas and perspectives we bring, which help push the industry forward,” she said.
Her sister, Leah Slette, with more than six years in the business, focuses on customer service and trust-building. “I love being able to help people and build trust with them through open, honest communication,” she said.
Other team members, like Carly Ubl and Gwen Oldenburg, emphasize empowerment and operational improvement. “I feel empowered to work in this industry, and I enjoy being part of a team that supports each other,” said Ubl. Oldenburg added, “Women bring valuable perspectives to the table that can help improve processes and outcomes in the industry.”
CARSTAR
Amy Gissendanner, field performance manager at CARSTAR, joined the company in 2018 after years of experience in various roles within the collision repair industry. She started in 2006 as a CSR and worked her way up to estimator before managing dealership body shops from 2012 to 2017. In her current role, Gissendanner assists shops across the country, offering on-site visits and remote training.
“It’s about consistency, follow-through, and showing up prepared,” Gissendanner explained.
Doni Collins, former owner and now CFO of Fairborn CARSTAR in Ohio, joined the collision repair industry in 2007. With no prior experience in the field, she applied her business expertise from owning other companies since she was 21. "I started by analyzing processes, numbers and structure to make improvements," she said. Under her leadership, sales multiplied by four.
Nicole Burgess, general manager of CARSTAR Maryville in Illinois, started her journey in 2006 as a co-op student. She worked her way up from CSR to estimator, office manager and finally GM in 2021 after Kurt, the previous owner, sold the shop to his son, Nathan.
Burgess’ journey is a testament to perseverance and adaptability. “I always wanted to be an accountant, but life had other plans, and now I’m living my dream," she said.
Marilyn Wirt, an estimator with 36 years of experience at CARSTAR Patriot Auto Body in Hot Springs, AR, has had a long and inspiring career in collision repair. Wirt began her journey working in Little Rock and eventually joined CARSTAR through a connection with an insurance adjuster. She’s passionate about her work, constantly learning new things and enjoying the challenges the industry presents.
“I can’t think of anything else I’d rather do,” she said.
Lisa Smith, franchisee and owner of Gapsch CARSTAR Collision Center in Missouri, has been with the business since 2000. Smith’s journey in collision repair began as an appraiser assistant, and she quickly climbed the ranks to become the general manager and eventually the owner in 2013. Her family has deep roots in the business, with her step-grandfather and brother originally opening the shop in 1959.
Despite being one of the few women in the industry at the time, Smith thrived. “When I started writing estimates, I dealt with customers who asked for the male employees, but I showed them that I knew exactly what I was talking about,” she recalled.
Kelly Domer, co-owner of CARSTAR Jordan Road Collision in Colorado, has been part of the CARSTAR family since 2006. She began her career as a CSR, working with her stepfather, Gary Boesel, before transitioning to general manager at Jordan Road Collision after two years. In 2022, Domer became part-owner, with plans to reach 100% ownership.
"I’ve always known I wanted to be a part of this industry, and with the guidance of Gary, I’ve earned the respect of my team. It’s been about showing my knowledge and passion for the business," Domer said.
Sabrina Thring, president of Driven Brands Collision Group, praised the impact of these professionals.
“Their leadership, resilience, and innovative approaches are making a significant impact on the collision repair industry,” she said. “They are true examples of the power of diversity and inclusion.”
