Girls-Only Mechanics Class Launches in Sherwood Park to Empower Young Women

A new initiative at Bev Facey Community High School in Sherwood Park, Alberta, aims to empower young women by introducing a dedicated mechanics course for girls. This program, the first of its kind at the school, focuses on teaching essential skills related to car ownership, maintenance, and potential careers in the mechanics industry.

Steven Milton, a teacher at the school for five years, spearheaded the creation of this all-girls mechanics class. He recognized a gap in the traditional co-ed mechanics courses, which often leave some students feeling excluded. “I honestly didn’t know what to expect. I pulled a lot of the girls and we talked to a lot of them last year to find out the interest,” Milton explained in an interview with CTV News Edmonton. The reception has been overwhelmingly positive, with many girls expressing a desire to participate, particularly those who previously felt discouraged in mixed-gender settings.

Students like Julia Werstiuk, a Grade 12 student who transferred schools specifically for this course, have shared their experiences. “In the past, with some classes I used to take, sometimes boys can be judgmental if you don’t know the stuff right away, and that’s really discouraging,” she noted. Werstiuk, who has a background in helping her grandfather fix cars, appreciates the supportive environment of the all-girls class. “Even though some of the girls already have a lot of background information, they’re very helpful and not condescending in any way,” she added.

Another student, Alexis Craig, has personal experience with mechanics, having grown up in a family business focused on automotive repair. “Mechanics is awesome, and I feel like it’s a great thing just to have in your toolbox,” she stated. Both Werstiuk and Craig are contemplating careers in the mechanics field after graduation, highlighting the class’s impact on their aspirations.

Milton expressed concern about the potential mistreatment that girls may face in traditional co-ed courses. “If that didn’t happen, maybe a class like this wouldn’t need to exist, but creating a safe place for [girls] to take the course when they have the desire to do it … it’s the right thing to do,” he said. The introduction of this class serves not only as an educational opportunity but also as a step towards creating a more inclusive environment within the automotive industry.

The students have also discussed ideas beyond the classroom. Werstiuk suggested the possibility of a women-owned mechanics shop, noting that some women might feel more comfortable visiting a female mechanic. “I know it’s easy to get taken advantage of,” she remarked, emphasizing the importance of trust in automotive services.

Looking ahead, Milton hopes to continue offering the course at least once every school year. “It gives us that independence,” Craig added, encouraging other young women interested in mechanics to pursue their passion. “To any of the girls out there that are wanting to get into mechanics, get in there. We want to see you.”

This initiative not only addresses the skills gap but also aims to inspire a new generation of female mechanics, fostering a more diverse workforce in an industry traditionally dominated by men.