A few decades ago, the automotive industry was almost entirely dominated by men, and women’s participation in this market segment was barely noticeable. However, over the years, the presence of women in the automotive sector has grown exponentially, ensuring they earn their place and transform this reality by taking on key roles in engineering, design, mechanics, and even leading some of the world’s largest automakers.
While many of these journeys were invisible for years, the truth is that women’s participation in the automotive sector was crucial to the industry’s development. From Bertha Benz, who proved the viability of the automobile by making the first long-distance car trip, to Mary Barra, the first female CEO of a major automaker, and many other inspiring stories — all of which we will explore in today’s article. Stay with us and enjoy the read!
Getting to know the pioneering women in the automotive sector
Long before the automotive sector became the giant we know today, some women challenged norms and were responsible for significant advances. Let’s get to know some of them?
Bertha Benz – The first driver
While Karl Benz is remembered for creating the first automobile, Bertha Benz was the one who made it viable. In 1888, she took her husband’s car and drove more than 100 kilometers, proving that the vehicle was functional and could be a reliable means of transportation. This journey not only popularized the car but also led to essential mechanical improvements for its development.
Florence Lawrence – The creator of turn signals and brake lights
Known for her work in cinema, Florence Lawrence was also a remarkable inventor. She developed the first concepts of turn signals and brake lights for automobiles, inventions that were incorporated into car design and are now mandatory in any vehicle.
Helene Rother – The first automotive designer
In 1943, Helene Rother became the first woman to work as a designer in the automotive industry, joining General Motors. Her revolutionary approach brought a sophisticated perspective to vehicle interiors, making them more elegant and comfortable.
It’s worth noting that these are just a few of the many women in the automotive sector who, with talent and courage, challenged the norms of their time and paved the way for the presence of women in the industry.
The evolution of women’s presence in the automotive sector
Thanks to the pioneering spirit of a few, the number of women in the automotive sector has grown significantly. And it doesn’t stop there. According to industry studies, there is a steady increase in the presence of women not only in administrative roles but also in engineering, mechanics, and automotive design.
Companies are investing in inclusion and training programs for women, opening doors for more professionals to enter this sector. Many women are taking on leadership and decision-making roles, bringing innovation and diversity to an industry that, as we have seen, was predominantly male.
The impact of this growth can already be seen in automakers, workshops, and even in the automotive aftermarket, with more women on the front lines of vehicle maintenance. Despite the progress, gender equity still needs improvement, especially in technical and engineering positions. But the evolution is already remarkable and is expected to grow even more in the coming years.
A bright future for women in the automotive sector
With the advent of new technologies such as electric cars, artificial intelligence, and autonomous mobility, the automotive sector is reinventing itself — and, as expected, women are increasingly playing a crucial role in this transformation.
Whether in engineering, mechanics, or leading major automakers, women have shown that their presence in the automotive sector is not only a right but a necessity for the future of mobility.
At RIO, we believe that diversity and innovation go hand in hand, and we celebrate the achievements of women who make a difference in the automotive sector. May this journey continue to be inspiring, and may more women have the opportunity to transform this market with their talent and dedication.
And for you, which female story in the automotive sector inspires you the most? Share your thoughts in the comments below, and if you enjoyed the content, stay tuned to the RIO blog for more posts like this!
