HallCraft are celebrating International Women’s Day – with two of the HallCraft team dedicated to driving the motor industry forward.
Izzy and Tracey are key members of the HallCraft team who dedicate themselves to the betterment of our customers, and their fellow team members.
They are shining examples of why the British motor industry – and HallCraft in particular – needs, and wants, to attract more women to our profession.
Celebrating Women
HallCraft owner, James Hopcraft, said: “HallCraft have recently celebrated 30-years as the leading independent garage serving Cradley Heath, Dudley, Halesowen and Stourbridge over which time we have seen a lot of change.
“When we started, the attitude towards women working in the automotive industry was not great and it was a tough world for women to walk into, regardless of their ability.
“It was very male dominated, often because the men may have been intimidated or even felt threatened by a female colleague for a variety of reasons but, thankfully, a lot has changed and that stigma is finally being broken.
“HallCraft have always been committed to bringing in talented operators to the team – regardless of gender. Izzy and Tracey are perfect examples of that.”
International Women’s Day
International Women’s Day has been officially celebrated on 8th March since 1911. It was created to commemorate women’s fight for equality and liberation along with the women’s rights movement.
Some key automotive facts
- Women make up around 18–20% of the UK automotive workforce
- In vehicle maintenance and repair roles, women represent around 13% of the workforce
- Only about 11% of technicians in vehicle maintenance and repair are women
- Surveys show 62% of women feel uncomfortable visiting a garage alone, highlighting why trust and communication matter
- The UK automotive industry is still around 80% male, showing there is still work to do on diversity.
Female Talent
HallCraft positively encourage women to join their team, Izzy and Tracey are terrific examples of how female talent can flourish in this formally male dominated world.
Izzy has been with HallCraft since college and is a key member of our service department whilst Tracy heads up the HallCraft bodyshop team.
James, added: “Izzy and Tracey are key members of the HallCraft team and we would like to encourage others women to follow in their footsteps.
“Izzy starting her automotive career whilst at college working part time for a leading National parts supplier locally before joining us in 2022, going on to become an outstanding service advisor. If you need to discuss anything from a routine service, a diagnostic job or timing belt replacement, then Izzy is only a phone call or e-mail away.
“Tracey has enjoyed a lifelong career in the automotive sector which includes working at part suppliers, HGV workshops and several well established bodyshops.
“Tracey initially worked at HallCraft for a decade before returning in 2025 to head up our bodyshop. With her extensive knowledge, she helps customers with any aspect of accident damage, whether that includes involving your insurer or not.”
* Talk to the HallCraft team about your vehicle service, repair, SMART repair or accident repair today. And learn how you can spread your motoring costs via our ServiceSplit monthly payment plan via our website at www.hallcraft.co.uk.
