There are opportunities in our day-to-day lives that allow us to be unique or different from others around us, solely based on our gender. In many instances of our “uniqueness” there is a positive from being the only “female,” the only “male,” the only “collision repairer,” or the only “mechanical repairer” in the room. It’s our uniqueness that sets us apart and provides us with opportunities to differentiate ourselves in the situation we are in.

Approximately eight out of 10 individuals in collision and mechanical repair are similar to one another in gender; the majority is male. This alone presents a unique opportunity for females to differentiate themselves and bring a unique perspective to the table. The Women’s Industry Network (WIN), an association of females in collision repair, is striving to do just that.

Recently, I had the opportunity to attend the WIN conference in Dallas and take part in networking, education and social expressions with female leaders engaged in various segments of collision repair. The conference brought together female collision repairers, insurers, information providers, recyclers and suppliers in such a way that all present found a sense of community within our overall uniqueness.

When Ron Pyle asked me to write the President’s Blog about the WIN conference, it brought to mind that all of us should take a moment to focus on our day-to-day lives and realize we all experience scenarios in which we are unique and “bringing something different to the table.” When we are surrounded by sameness, we are comforted and find a sense of confidence in that uniformity. So when we are presented with a scenario in which we are unique, we should reach into that confidence and hold our uniqueness as an opportunity.

For example, take a moment to consider your uniqueness as a member of the ASA community. Think of all the benefits that this specific uniqueness offers. Opportunities abound!