Success Stories
Ellen Plumer - Head of Awareness & Experience | Ben - The Automotive Industry Charity
Lucy Wysockyj Technician Apprentice LCV | Rygor Auto
What support have you had in this traditionally male-dominated industry?
Why did you start a career in automotive?
Why did you start a career in automotive?
What successes have you had?
“One of the things I’m most proud of is helping Ben reach more people across different sectors of the automotive industry. Automotive isn’t just about a shiny new car, it includes logistics, design, manufacturing, insurance, disposal and so much more. Many people across automotive don’t realise that Ben is there for them, so I’ve been working hard to make sure they do. Seeing people get the support they need because of that work is so rewarding.”
“When I was a child, I dreamt of being a race car driver. I started working in automotive because I’m interested in vehicles and mechanics and working on cars.”
“My role has meant stepping out of my comfort zone and doing things that challenge me – things that scared me initially. Since starting my apprenticeship, I have achieved success and am now a Level 1 LCV Technician (with another two levels to go).”
“Having people who believe in you makes all the difference. I’ve worked hard to build a support network of people within the industry who understand what I’m trying to achieve. They will always advocate for me and seek out opportunities on my behalf, which I’m so grateful for. That’s why I try to do the same for others as it’s so important to help each other up. Successful people know that working together is the best way to achieve things, make changes, and thrive in the industry.”
What are you looking forward to into the future of your automotive career?
“I love working on vehicles and I’m really looking forward to qualifying as a Level 3 trained Automotive Technician and continuing to work for Rygor.”
What are you looking forward to heading into the future of your automotive career?
Elaine Bamford Customer Service Manager | Rygor Auto
“There’s still so much more to do! I want to keep growing awareness so that everyone in the industry knows Ben is there for them. I’m also really passionate about making the industry more inclusive. There’s still a long way to go, but change is happening, and I want to be part of that. Personally, I’m always learning and developing. In my role, I’m lucky that I meet all sorts of people doing various roles across the industry, so I take any lessons and experiences I can from them.”
Why did you start a career in automotive?
What successes have you had?
“My interest in the automotive industry started at around 7 years old. My dad drove a concrete mixer and whenever I had the opportunity, I’d jump at going to work with him in his noisy old truck! I joined the industry in 1990 (just out of my teens) as a rental receptionist and progressed in that role to internal auditing & relief management that took me all over the UK, until starting a family in 1999. Fast forward to 2001 and I started back in my first workshop role as an administrator for a heavy commercial and crane hire business before joining Rygor as a service advisor in 2009.”
“I soon moved into workshop control and in 2013 became the first female in the UK to complete the Mercedes Benz workshop controller development programme – nothing is more inspiring to me than being named the first female in something, particularly in a male dominated industry!”
Samantha Bettridge People Relations Manager | Rygor Group Why did you start a career in automotive?
“To be truthfully honest, it wasn’t the industry itself that initially drew me in, but rather an inspiring female who opened my eyes to the opportunities it offered. Her passion and insight sparked my curiosity. I recognise that under-representation and stereotypes can sometimes be barriers. However, I’ve found the industry to be welcoming, and by building strong relationships and demonstrating expertise, I’ve seen firsthand that opportunities are there for those who seek them. By staying proactive, adaptable, and open to learning, I’ve found that respect and opportunities have come naturally.”
What support have you had in this traditionally male-dominated industry?
What successes have you had?
“Being part of a team that embraces change and seeks creative solutions has been a key success. Contributing to initiatives that enhance processes and drive positive change has been particularly rewarding”.
“The training and development opportunities at Rygor are like nothing I have experienced in any job before. I feel I have benefited and learnt so much from the fantastic opportunities offered!”
Copyright Rygor Group 2025
Copyright Rygor Group 2025
Made with FlippingBook. PDF to flipbook with ease