Inspire Future Female Mechanics: TechForce Foundation Launches ‘The Car that She Built’

Encouraging Girls in Automotive Careers: A New Children’s Book

The TechForce Foundation is promoting a new book to inspire young children, especially girls, to consider careers in the automotive industry. The book, titled “The Car that She Built,” is written by Mollie Elkman and illustrated by Kay Wolfersperger. It is supported by TechForce and funded by NAPA Auto Parts.

This children’s book is aimed at primary school students. It introduces various jobs related to designing, building, and maintaining cars. Each page features a different role in the automotive field, ending with the automotive technician who repairs the vehicle. The final page is left blank for readers to draw their own car.

TechForce announced the book at the Women in Auto Care awards during AAPEX on November 6. They aim to motivate girls to envision themselves in diverse roles within the automotive sector, whether in labs, maintenance bays, or boardrooms.

Sheonny Harrell, director of marketing at NAPA Auto Parts, expressed pride in this project. She emphasized the importance of inspiring the next generation to see themselves in these careers.

The author previously wrote “The House that She Built.” TechForce showed strong interest when they learned about her plan for this new book. NAPA funded the book’s illustrations, while TechForce ensured the accuracy of the content, advising on the inclusion of personal protective equipment.

NAPA printed an initial 250 copies and will distribute 2,000 to 3,000 more to schools nationwide. TechForce plans to visit schools for readings with the author. The goal is to engage students early, before misconceptions deter them from pursuing trades.