Honoring women who are shaping the future of the collision repair industry, nominations are now open for the 2026 Founding Mother Award.
Presented by Women’s Industry Network (WIN) Founding Mothers — Frederica Carter, Geri Kottschade, Gigi Walker, Patricia Serratore, Kathy Mello, and Marcy Tieger — the award “celebrates individuals who are making a lasting impact in their shops, communities, and the broader industry while advancing WIN’s mission to support and connect women in collision repair.”
The criteria to nominate includes:
- Demonstrate strong alignment with WIN’s mission.
- Submit a personal statement that reflects genuine passion for the industry.
- Provide a statement of support from a shop owner or manager.
- Have at least two years of full-time experience in a repair shop as a technician or painter.
- Act as a mentor and help foster a supportive, collaborative shop environment.
- Show clear commitment to long-term career growth in collision repair.
- Submit a letter of recommendation from an industry professional.
- Are willing and able to attend the 2025 WIN Conference in Tucson, Ariz. — May 4–6, 2026.
WIN was established in 2006 by six women who “recognized a need for connection, mentorship, and opportunity in the collision repair field.” For this year’s award, Founding Mothers Kottschade, Carter, and Tieger are actively involved in providing insight and guidance.
Click here to nominate.