Throughout the next few months our Women in the Driver’s Seat series will feature a new female team member from within our global organization, highlighting their professional achievements, how they have overcome challenges in their careers and the advice they would give to women considering a career in the automotive industry.
Meet This Week’s Team Member: Amy DiJenno, Area Controller, CarShop
"Somewhere, something incredible is waiting to be known."
What attracted you to the automotive industry?
It was really an accident. I had graduated from college and needed to find a job. I saw a sales position available at a dealership not far from my house and applied. I thought that I would be able to use my people skills and help make a difference for customers as they made the big decision of purchasing a vehicle. I fell in love with the pace and the people, and never looked back.
What was your first job in the automotive industry?
I started as a delivery coordinator/sales assistant.
What is your proudest professional achievement?
Being promoted to the area controller position.
What motivates you every morning?
Every day is a new day, a fresh start, a new opportunity.
How have you overcome challenges in your career?
By staying positive and trusting the timing of my life. It is hard sometimes to see the positive side when in the middle of a challenge but often hindsight shows us that everything works out exactly as it should.
Looking back on the last decade, how have you seen the automotive industry landscape change and evolve to engage more women?
When I started there were very few women in the company, and they were mostly in the administrative positions. I’m proud to say I have been here to see us hire and promote female associates and managers in all departments. We have more women working across the company than ever before.
What advice would you give to a woman considering a career in the auto industry?
Go for it! It is an amazing business to work in and there are so many opportunities available if you put yourself out there.
What hobbies do you enjoy?
I love being outside, working in the garden, going for a walk, or run, or reading a book on the porch.