Not many people can say their first experience working on cars involved a 1965 Ford Mustang. For Audra Thelen, a service technician and shop foreman at Hendrick BMW in Charlotte, N.C., that’s exactly how her journey in the automotive industry began.
Growing up, Audra fondly remembers working on her older sister’s Mustang alongside her father. This father-daughter moment marked the beginning of what would become a long and fulfilling automotive career.
Reflecting on the constant support she received from her parents, Audra said, “They never once told me to think about something else. They were fully supportive from day one.”
After enjoying her time as a student in her high school’s auto shop program, Audra opted for what some might consider a traditional college route. However, it wasn’t long before her passion for cars returned to forge a different path.
“I kind of thought that was what you were supposed to do. I decided after a year that it wasn’t for me, and I wanted to get back into automotive training.”
Determined to follow her passion, Audra enrolled at Universal Technical Institute (UTI) to become a BMW-certified technician. After graduating from UTI, she gained experience at several BMW dealerships on the West Coast, but life eventually led Audra and her talents across the country.
Audra arrived in Charlotte, N.C., confident that her experience, skills, and education would lead to a suitable role.
“Being that I already had 15 years of experience, as long as there was an open spot at a BMW dealership in the area, I knew I had a good chance at getting in there.”
Growing with Hendrick
When Audra accepted a technician position at Hendrick BMW a decade ago, she quickly realized that she had joined a company committed to helping its employees grow and develop.
“I know it’s cliché to say it’s like a family, but it really is,” she shared. “They make you feel like they care about you and where you want to go in your career, and they help you get to that point. Any help they can give you, they’re there to do that.”
At Hendrick Automotive Group, we believe that by taking better care of each other, we can take better care of our customers. We aim to provide our teammates with industry-leading training, development, and certification opportunities, all so they can achieve their goals.
Audra exemplifies this commitment. Her dedication to growing her career has led her to become a Master Elite Certified Technician with BMW, their highest level of technician certification. However, her success extends far beyond personal achievements.
When asked about the highlight of her career thus far, Audra answered, “It’s helping train people and teaching them. It’s fun where I’m at now that I can do my part in getting other people into the field and help them grow.”
Taking the Leap
Audra’s story is one of many that highlights how Hendrick Automotive Group fosters career growth and success. In what’s typically perceived to be a male-dominated industry, she has proven that hard work and determination are what truly matter. Now, she wants to help others do the same.
“There’s always going to be people that tell you it’s not the right career or not a good fit, but if it’s something you’re interested in, give it a shot.”
At Hendrick Automotive Group, we believe anyone can excel in this industry. During Women’s History Month, we are proud to celebrate teammates like Audra, whose work ethic and passion are the reasons for their success.
Today, over 2,300 women work at Hendrick Automotive Group across 41 different departments, including 54 technicians. That’s a number Audra expects to grow in the future.
“It’s more visible now,” she said. “We’ve always been there, but it wasn’t seen as much. It can be intimidating for a female to try to get into this field. So, it’s nice to see there are others doing it.”
When asked what advice she would give to young women considering the automotive industry, her answer was simple.
“If it’s something you’re even curious about or have a passion for, just go for it.”
Audra’s story demonstrates that with a strong work ethic and the right support system, the possibilities are endless. For anyone who has ever thought about a career in the automotive industry, we encourage you to take Audra’s advice. Just go for it!
Visit HendrickCareers.com to learn more about our available technician positions across the country.
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