Great Bear Auto Repair, a cornerstone of Flushing, Queens, NY, since 1933, today not only continues its tradition of exemplary service but also leads an innovative educational outreach for women.
Founded by Audra Fordin's great-grandfather, the shop has evolved under Fordin's leadership to become a sanctuary of learning and empowerment in an industry typically dominated by men.
From a young age, Fordin was immersed in the world of automotive repair, learning the trade alongside her father. Her deep connection to the family business and her inherent understanding of vehicles set her on a path to leadership, eventually making her the first woman to run the family business.
"You know where you're little and your mind is like a sponge? You naturally absorb whatever's going on in your environment. And it just kind of made sense for me," Fordin told WABC-TV New York.
Recognizing the challenges women face in understanding automotive terminology and maintenance, Fordin spearheaded the creation of Women Auto Know. This organization aims to demystify car mechanics for women, providing them with the knowledge and confidence to handle automotive issues.
"I have a way of communicating about the car, relating it to things people understood," said Fordin. By breaking down complex mechanical concepts into relatable terms, she has made automotive care more accessible.
Women Auto Know conducts workshops that offer both technical knowledge and hands-on experience. "You don't know what you don't know and if nobody told you, well then you need a resource where you can get that information," Fordin said.
