By Ashley Reyes
The SEMA Businesswomen's Network (SBN) has named Samantha Richardson, automotive service manager at Al's Tire Mart, as the network's newest #SheIsSEMA spotlight member.
Get to know Richardson in her interview with SEMA News below.
SEMA News: How many years have you been with your current company and what do you enjoy most about working there?
Samantha Richardson: I have been with Al's for almost seven years. The company I work for is very family-valued. Locally owned and operated, it's like a big family and we always take care of one another.
SN: What is the most challenging part of your business or job?
SR: Being a female in a male-dominated industry. A lot of times they ask for the man in charge, to which I reply, "I am the man in charge. What can I do for you?"
SN: How many years have you been in the industry and what was your first industry job?
SR: Almost seven years. I started with the company selling cell phones. We have an automotive shop attached to the building I was working in. My love for horsepower and anything automotive kept me wandering over to the shop. I knew I belonged there.
SN: What three qualities got you to where you are today?
SR: I'm hardworking. I have no issue going in the shop and rolling tires alongside the boys. I enjoy my hands-on days in the shop and getting dirty doesn't faze me. Sense of humor. I love to laugh and make people laugh. I can make light of any situation. Being able to enjoy your workday and have fun. That's my favorite. Last but not least, I am stubborn. Once my mind gets focused on something I am going to make it happen one way or another. Maybe determined is a better word? Most would agree stubborn.
SN: Being a woman in the industry, what have been your biggest challenges and accomplishments?
SR: Not being taken seriously. A lot of times I will be helping a customer with something and they will look at my male co-workers for approval or a head nod. One thing that happens often is a customer will come to the shop looking for "Sam," so I say, "I am Sam" to which they say "No, the man Sam?" "Yes that's me." I love the look on their face every time.
SN: Who are your role models or mentors in the industry?
SR: Julia Landauer. I have been following her career for a long time. Seeing her at SEMA this year was absolutely incredible. Once-in-a-lifetime experience. Her passion for the industry and "girl-power" mind set. She is outstanding.
SN: What is the best career advice you have received?
SR: "No one will ever want your dreams as much as you do. Go for it, kid." Sometimes I get ahead of myself and think I can't possible do all this then I remember an old boss of mine telling me that and the passion is back.
SN: Have you always wanted to work in the automotive industry? What keeps you here?
SR: I never planned to be in the automotive industry. Business was my main focus of study. I love assisting a customer with a purchase and seeing that vehicle go down the road. Helping people achieve what they want and knowing they are safe on the pavement.
SN: Who was the most influential person on your career goals?
SR: My mom Stacy. She has always supported my crazy ideas, dreams and goals. She may shake her head and laugh, but she never tells me it's too much or out of reach. She says, "You've got this, Sam."
My boss Joe has played a huge part in my career, giving me the opportunity to always grow and supporting me in every aspect. Taking the time to mentor me and being a friend. I most certainly would not have the opportunities or mindset I would without his support. I will always be grateful for giving me the benefit of the doubt and going above and beyond as an employer. He's also pretty funny.
Fill out a #SheIsSEMA spotlight form to submit a self-nomination or nominate a colleague and highlight how you or she is contributing to the specialty-equipment industry. Selected candidates are automatically eligible to be considered for SBN's #SheIsSEMA Woman of the Year award, featured on SBN's social media, SEMA News and recognized on the sema.org/she-is-sema website.