SAT #48 -🚗💪🙋‍♀️ Working For Opportunities

So…

Y’all got your Christmas shopping started?

Not trying to panic anybody, but it’s only 16 days until Christmas morning.

Keep Pushing Back
-Paul, Kyle, Chris & Kristi

INDUSTRY HIGHLIGHT

Fabiola Maese Mathis

This week, Chris spoke with Fabiola Maese Mathis, the General Manager of Mercedes-Benz of Lubbock, part of the Cavender Auto Group. Her story is one written in hard work and an unwavering belief in what she has to offer her people. 

Fab! Thanks for taking the time to talk with me today! Tell me about your start in the auto industry.

My journey began uniquely – I was deeply influenced by my father's love for cars and a youthful interest in a European Car Club. My career transition from retail, specifically at Nordstrom, to the automotive world was a significant shift. I started at a Toyota dealership and steadily worked my way up. Each role I've taken has been a building block towards my current position as the General Manager at Mercedes-Benz of Lubbock.

That's a remarkable transition. What were some key challenges you faced?

Entering a male-dominated industry, the challenges were all around. I remember being told by former employers that they don't promote women to leadership because they "all have kids and never come back."

Overcoming stereotypes and biases was a daily struggle. However, my focus was always on demonstrating my skills and dedication. The support from Cavender Auto Group was pivotal – they valued my hard work, skills, and commitment rather than focusing on gender.

How do you perceive the industry's evolution regarding gender diversity?

The industry has made strides, but there's still a long way to go. When I began, female presence in automotive roles, especially leadership, was minimal. Now, we see more women in various roles, but the journey towards full inclusivity and equal representation continues.

Balancing my professional and personal life requires constant juggling. Being a mother and a wife, my family is paramount. I strive to be fully present for them despite the demands of my career. My husband's unwavering support has been a cornerstone in managing this balance, especially when I stepped into the General Manager role.

I’ve worked really hard, and my leadership recognizes that. I once thanked Mr. Cavender for the opportunity, and he told me, “It’s not an opportunity. You worked hard, and you earned this.”

Wow! Can you share your philosophy on leadership and customer service?

My core philosophy revolves around treating everyone – be it my team or customers – like family. This approach, inherited from my retail background, creates a nurturing and loyal environment. Empowering my team, ensuring they feel valued, and supporting them translates into their service towards our customers. I believe in leading by example, fostering a culture of respect, and prioritizing customer satisfaction.

Any advice for young professionals aspiring to enter the auto industry?

My advice is to be resilient, adaptable, and open to learning. The auto industry is dynamic and challenging. Embrace every opportunity, seek mentorship, and never shy away from hard work. And most importantly, believe in your abilities and value.

CONTENT RECAP

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Email:

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• Chastang Ford signed an NIL with an athlete from the University of Houston, Damian Dunn.

• We recapped last week’s big news and shared some of your replies to our daily polls.

Podcast:

In this episode of Auto Collabs, we sit down with Alex Lawrence, CEO of EV Auto, to explore his journey and impact in the electric vehicle (EV) world. From his early days detailing cars to leading a groundbreaking EV dealership, Alex's story is a blend of passion, innovation, and entrepreneurial spirit. He shares insights into the allure of electric vehicles, their technological advancements, and his vision for EV Auto, which is redefining the EV retail experience.

CAPTION CONTEST

Year End Extravaganza

Last year at the ASOTU Year End Extravaganza, we had a blast. (Judging by the above picture, maybe none of us had more fun than Kyle?)

Help us caption the above image and mark your calendars for Thursday, December 21st, for a live show featuring our favorite headlines, community moments, and automotive moves from 2023. Click here to RSVP on LinkedIn

SOMETHING FUN

435 hours In The Paint Booth

• 🎨 Stunning Paint Job: A 435-hour labor of love, blending Viola Pasifae to Nero Helene with vibrant brushstrokes.

• 💺 Luxurious Interior: Two-tone black and purple leather, adorned with 60th-anniversary motifs and custom embroideries.

• 🚀 Powerful Performance: A roaring combination of a 6.5-liter V-12 and three electric motors, totaling an impressive 1001 horsepower.

• 🎉 Celebrating 60 Years: More than just a car, the 'Opera Unica' is a testament to Lamborghini's legacy of innovation and craftsmanship, making its grand debut at Art Basel.

🌟 The 'Opera Unica' Lamborghini Revuelto isn't just another supercar; it's a rolling piece of art, exemplifying a perfect blend of style, luxury, and power.

Quick Hits

• Dubai says it will cut carbon emissions 50% by 2030. 🥝

• AI fast food ordering tech company reports it is mostly powered by humans in the Philippines. 🤖

• Celebrity Cameo videos are being altered to push anti-Ukraine propaganda in Russia. 🤥

• The FDA has approved gene-editing treatment for a human disease - sickle cell. 💉