Sam Leonard, owner/manager of Forbes Smash Repairs is extremely thrilled, albeit somewhat shocked to learn that she was selected as a finalist in the Australasian Panel and Paint Magazine, Women in Smash Repairs.
The Women in Smash Repair Awards, sponsored by NRMA Insurance, are an industry initiative that celebrate the roles women play in the running of Australia’s smash repair shops. The magazine which comes out bi-monthly, asked Sam to complete a questionnaire online. Following that, they then sent her an email and asked some more questions, which resulted in Sam being selected as one of 5 finalists.
Sam was to attend the Awards lunch, however due to her plane not getting into Sydney on time, she missed her connecting flight and thus the lunch. Sam has been in the business of smash repairs now for over nine years, and has
owned Forbes Smash Repairs for the past six years. She started out doing painting, and it is through her love of cars that she managed to get an apprenticeship out of it in Forbes with Kevin Vale.
Sam said, “I have absolutely loved every minute of it. I am also the youngest ever nominated for this award, which is a great honour. I have continued the tradition of employing women in my business, and have with me at the moment, Raine Piercy, who is a first year apprentice.” “My aim is always to create a friendly work environment for staff, exceptional customer service, high quality repairs and refinishing and having a reputable name. I do this by ensuring the staff are enjoying their work, allowing them to have an input on the business, continuously looking for ways to improve the business whether it be by advertising, keeping up to date with where the industry is heading and involving the business in community events.”
In addition, Sam employs three other people in the business, so you know where to head if you have a bingle over Christmas.