WIN extends Founding Mothers Award deadline, shares prize package details
The Women’s Industry Network (WIN) has extended the nomination application deadline to Feb. 2 for its inaugural Founding Mothers Award. It has announced multiple benefits and prizes that will be awarded to its inaugural recipient.
WIN says in a press release that the award honors the women who are shaping the future of the collision repair industry — those who “demonstrate passion, perseverance, and purpose every day.” It was established to celebrate the six “founding mothers” of WIN — Frederica Carter, Geri Kottschade, Gigi Walker, Patricia Serratore, Kathy Mello, and Marcy Tieger, as well as the organization’s creation and true mission by supporting and connecting women in collision repair.
The award recipient will receive a comprehensive prize package designed to advance their careers, elevate their craft, and celebrate their achievements, the release says.
The award includes:
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- Up to $5,000 toward tools or equipment of the recipient’s choice. Technicians may select tools from their preferred brand, and painters may choose a premium paint gun. Any remaining balance can be applied toward additional tools from their preferred supplier. Part of the funds can be spent on continuing education or eligible work-related expenses, with submitted receipts;
- A $1,000 apparel stipend to purchase workwear (jeans, polos, shoes), or conference clothing, including their gala outfit (receipts required);
- All-expenses-covered experience at the WIN Conference, including conference pass, lodging, and round-trip flights;
- Recognition of the winner and their shop to celebrate the team behind their success; and
- A discounted conference pass for shop owners or managers to join the winner.
“Key considerations for this new, prestigious award will include excellence in their craft, as well as mentoring others to success in repair excellence,” said Laura Kottschade, WIN’s Board vice chair, in the release. “The new Founding Mothers Award is open to all women and will annually recognize an individual that is ‘intently involved with the true craft of collision repair, as their skills need to be still active on the shop floor – either as a hands-on refinish technician and/or painter.”
Neither the nominator nor the nominee is required to be a WIN member.
The class of 2026 Most Influential Women and the inaugural Founding Mothers award recipient will all be celebrated at WIN’s Annual Conference, May 4–6, in Tucson, Arizona. Nominations for the MIW awards will be accepted through Jan. 5.
Images
Featured image: WIN”s Founding Mothers (Provided by WIN)
More information
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