Instructor Spotlight : Megan Farrand
- Occupation:
Auto Body Painter - Why do you work with Big Idea’s?
When I was in high school we did not have many opportunities to explore employment options outside of traditional college. I knew I wanted to work on cars but did not know what area outside of mechanics was available. This program would have been a game-changer for me to become passionate about auto-body at an earlier age. The mission of Big Idea’s gives students that opportunity in such a creative way and I am excited to be a part of that. - What was your best experience in Skilled Trades?
My best experience (s) would have to be all the incredible people I’ve met in the industry throughout my career. In 2016 I entered SEMA’s battle of the builders and took 12th place with a 2013 Subaru STI that I has earned sponsorships to fully customize. Then In 2017, I worked alongside 990 other women that all came together to build and fully restore a 57’ Chevy pickup called the Chevy Montage that was presented at SEMA alongside Chip Foose. Those projects helped me to meet some of my closest friends and build relationships with other like-minded people willing to help and support each other to reach our goals. - What was your worst experience in Skilled Trades?
The worst experience (s) came from when I was first starting out in the industry. Women working in my field were extremely scarce then and there were many walls I had to Knock down to get my foot in the door. I’d say even within the past five years, efforts to give women exposure have massively shifted those stigmas resulting in increasing more women becoming interested in the trades. I feel honored to have been part of a handful of projects and organizations that help shatter glass ceilings for the next generation of female technicians. - Why did you get started with the trades?
To be honest, I knew I did not want to be in customer service after working as a waitress in high school. I wanted a career that allowed me to work with my hands, create something and always be in demand. Working in automotive allowed me to do all those things and truly enjoy being one of the lucky few who enjoys going to work on Monday. - Why do you love the trades?
The trades have allowed me to provide a great life for my family and push me to take on new challenges that, without being in the industry, I never thought I would be able to accomplish. - Why do you like to share the trades?
Because I wish I had mentors willing to share the trades with me at a younger age.