Meryem Garip, a 27-year-old woman in Izmir, continues her family’s trade by working as an automotive mechanic in a car repair shop. Alongside the diplomas from 3 universities she completed, Garip also holds a certificate of mastery. She mentioned that customers are often surprised to see a female expert and emphasized that customer satisfaction has improved due to their meticulous work. Cagdas Cilengiroglu, the General Manager of the auto repair shop where Meryem works, stated, “If there were another Meryem, we would hire her immediately.” Meryem Garip graduated in 2019 from Izmir University of Economics with an associate degree in Radio and Television Broadcasting, later completing her studies in Sociology at Istanbul University’s Open and Distance Learning Faculty and Public Relations and Promotion at Ataturk University’s Open Education Faculty.

Meryem’s interest in the profession began while working as an apprentice at her father’s auto repair shop located in an industrial area during her university education. She advanced from apprentice to master there. Currently, Meryem Garip works as a repair master in an authorized service station of a globally renowned automobile brand and has become one of the most sought-after experts at the workplace. Reflecting on her apprenticeship under her father’s guidance, Meryem remarked, “I enjoyed repairing broken cars and their parts. I was curious about bodywork, paint areas, and strived to learn about all parts of the car. I started working with my father, and thanks to his encouragement after my university education, I transitioned into this industry. Presently, I work here as a master and instructor. I continue to learn and teach about the profession.”

Addressing the recent trend of more women entering the traditionally male-dominated field, Meryem Garip expressed her desire for an increase in their numbers. She noted, “I believe this is a challenging job for both men and women. There are advantages and disadvantages for a woman. Despite the initial surprise, our customers are happier to see that we, as women, do our job with great precision.” Recently attaining her mastery certificate and providing training to interns from vocational schools, Meryem stands out with her educational achievements. Graduating in 2019 from Izmir University of Economics with an associate degree in Radio and Television Broadcasting, she later completed her studies in Sociology at Istanbul University’s Open and Distance Learning Faculty and Public Relations and Promotion at Ataturk University’s Open Education Faculty.

The General Manager of the service station where Meryem Garip works, Cagdas Cilengiroglu, shared, “When Meryem first applied to us, I had absolutely no doubt about her ability to do this job; in fact, I thought that a woman would work more meticulously and diligently. My only concern was that, because this is a place where mostly men work, the male colleagues’ rough language among themselves might negatively affect Meryem. Instead, I thought that the male colleagues should adjust themselves, and it turned out that way. We are very satisfied with Meryem’s work discipline. If there were another Meryem, we would hire her immediately. Meryem never disappointed us. Work touched by a woman’s hand becomes even more detailed and meticulous.”