Empowering Women in the Driver's Seat: The Journey of Patrice Banks

Patrice Banks stands out as a beacon of change in the traditionally male-dominated automotive industry, leading a revolution with her pioneering spirit and dedication to empowering women. As the founder and CEO of Girls Auto Clinic (GAC) and the Shecanic® brand, Banks has transformed her journey to industry trailblazer into a mission to educate and empower women to become the #sheCANincs, confident drivers, and smart consumers.

Banks' story is one of resilience and determination. Frustrated with her experiences as a consumer in the auto world, she boldly decided to change her path. Leaving behind her previous career, she enrolled in automotive technology school, determined to gain the knowledge and skills she needed to take control of her automotive destiny.

Out of this determination emerged Girls Auto Clinic, a groundbreaking auto repair shop catering to women. What sets Girls Auto Clinic apart is its focus on providing high-quality automotive services and its unique approach to customer experience. With a team of female mechanics at the helm, GAC offers a welcoming environment where women can feel comfortable and empowered regarding car maintenance and repairs. Including a nail salon for customers during their wait adds an extra touch of luxury and convenience, redefining the traditional automotive service experience.

Banks' efforts have not gone unnoticed. Her innovative business model and commitment to empowering women have earned her recognition from major media outlets, including NPR's Fresh Air with Terry Gross, Washington Post, TIME, and Good Morning America. She has forged partnerships with industry giants like Ford, Dell, and Honda and organizations such as the Girl Scouts, leveraging her platform to inspire and educate women on a broader scale.

A graduate of Lehigh University with a degree in Materials Engineering, Banks brings a unique blend of technical expertise and entrepreneurial vision to her work. Her achievements have been celebrated by her alma mater, where she was honored as the Outstanding Entrepreneur of the Year by the Lehigh University Alumni Association in 2019.

In addition to her work with Girls Auto Clinic, Banks is a published author, sharing her knowledge and insights in her book Girls Auto Clinic Glove Box Guide. She is also expanding her reach into entertainment, collaborating with Warner Bros and Elizabeth Banks' Brownstone Production to develop a scripted comedy series about Girls Auto Clinic, further amplifying her mission to empower women in all aspects of their automotive journey.

Patrice Banks' story is a testament to the power of determination, resilience, and unwavering commitment to making a difference. Through her leadership and advocacy, she is breaking barriers in the automotive industry and inspiring women everywhere to take the wheel and drive their own success. With Banks at the helm, the future of the automotive world is undoubtedly female-powered.