Growing up on a farm, a life of hands-on work felt like a natural path. But becoming a Ford technician wasn’t without its hurdles. I battled self-doubt, and some people openly questioned if I was “too girly” or “not strong enough” for the job. Yet, with grease on my hands, and a Ford badge on my chest, I know this is exactly where I’m meant to be. I couldn’t imagine myself anywhere else.

A typical morning as a Ford Pro Mobile Service technician kicks off with a piping hot coffee, and a quick but thorough check of my Ford Transit – the mobile workshop that's always ready, right there on my driveway.

“Cars, and the challenges that come with them, can teach you resilience.”

Katie Brown, Ford Pro Mobile Service technician

Once I’ve confirmed my first job location on the tablet, I gather any specific parts I’ll need and map out the most efficient route. When I arrive, my first priority is always to connect with the customer. Their input is invaluable and crucial when it comes to pinpointing the issue. It’s not just about convenience; it’s about bringing the dealership experience directly to them.

Day-to-day, that means everything from scheduled services to on-the-spot diagnostics and common repairs. If the job requires a lift or more specialised equipment, I triage it, make sure you're safe, and get you back on the road. That said, I can usually handle most repairs right where you are.

My journey with cars started watching my dad work on my mum’s family hatchback. I was his "tool girl," handing him the right wrench or spanner as he worked under the bonnet. I loved being a part of the process, the problem-solving, and seeing how things came together.

At one point, Dad decided to use the forklift to lift the engine out. It seemed like a good idea, but the chain slipped, and the engine dropped straight through the windscreen. It made a right mess, but we still laugh about it now, even though Dad hasn’t been allowed near a forklift since.

That experience showed me how cars, and the challenges that come with them, can teach you resilience and creativity. From that moment, I knew working with cars was what I wanted to do.

Stepping into this industry at just eighteen was daunting enough, but being the only woman in the room added an entirely new challenge. I faced pushback from all sides. Customers would refuse to let me touch their vehicles, convinced I wasn’t capable of doing the job. Then there was the dealership that tried to push me into an office role. That was never going to be my path, so I walked away.

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When I joined TrustFord as a technician, that’s when the real work began. The company culture is great, and I love the independence that comes with mobile service. I would recommend it to anyone with a genuine passion for this kind of work. Don’t get me wrong, the guys here are brilliant, but it’s nice to walk into a room and see other women there, just like me, making their mark in the industry.

“Being an MSV technician has been game-changing for me. If it's something you're passionate about, don't let anyone tell you it's not for you.”

Katie Brown, Ford Pro Mobile Service technician

My advice to any young women thinking about this trade is simple: if I can do it, so can you. The support I’ve received at Ford and the opportunities I’ve had have been incredible.

Being a Ford Pro Mobile Service technician has been game-changing for me, and if it’s something you’re passionate about, don’t let anyone tell you it’s not for you. Jump in, and be brave.

Katie Brown is a Ford Pro Mobile Service technician