General News
12 April, 2024
Shai Copelin wins Barbara Cox Award
Shai Copelin, a Gilgandra born mechanic, has recently won the second annual Barbara Cox Woman of the Year Award.
Shai Copelin, a Gilgandra born mechanic, has recently won the second annual Barbara Cox Woman of the Year Award. The award is granted to women in the Australian motor industry who demonstrate commitment to innovation, leadership, and community, and recognizes their achievements. As automotive product manager for TAFE NSW, Mrs. Copelin is responsible for training Australia’s future product experts in a rapidly shifting industry. She was announced winner of the Barbara Cox award on March 4, coinciding with International Women’s Day.
When she was young, Mrs. Copelin was determined to fix an old vehicle out the back of her house. Her father told her that she would have to learn to fix it herself if that was her plan. Towards this, in 2006 she began an apprenticeship with Frank Chandler at Gilgandra Motor Sales and Service. Mrs. Copelin faced discrimination for her interest. One teacher told her “You’ll never find a husband,” a way of thinking she asserted is outdated.
Mrs. Copelin worked for Mr. Chandler for several years, then at Western Plains Automotive Dubbo, working her way up to service manager. Now she works at TAFE NSW, shaping the future career experts of the automotive industry. Mrs. Copelin has won several awards previously, including the Long Tan Leadership Award, NRMA Star, and Regional Apprentice of the Year.
Being a part of the automotive industry’s positive shift towards women in the workforce is a point of pride. “As I reflect on my journey, I remember my first year when there were no female restrooms at the learning facility,” said Mrs. Copelin. “I see young girls in race suits and women creating elite automotive businesses, and I’m proud to be a part of the positive shift in the industry’s culture. I’m dedicated to igniting the hearts of young girls, creating pathways, and sparking a lifelong connection with [the automotive industry].”
The ideals of recognizing and increasing the contribution of women in the automotive industry have been key to Mrs. Copelin’s career. “I’m not here to convince 100 women to go and join the industry… I’m here to convince the one percent that want to be a part of the industry to take a leap and do the stuff they love.”
