Revving Up a Revolution: Jolanta Francis’ Journey with ChipsAway

For International Women’s Day, her story shines as a beacon of resilience, leadership, and empowerment, a testament to what happens when a woman dares to steer her own course.

From Retail Roots to Roadside Dreams

Jolanta’s journey didn’t start with a wrench in hand. Before ChipsAway, she cut her teeth in retail, mastering customer service, problem-solving, and the art of keeping a business humming. It was a world she enjoyed, but beneath the surface, a deeper passion revved: a love for cars and a hunger for something hands-on.

“I’ve always had a passion for cars and a desire to work in a more technical field,” she says, her voice tinged with the excitement of someone who’s found her lane. Self-employment was uncharted territory, but when she discovered ChipsAway, it felt like the keys to her future had been dropped in her lap. Drawn by its stellar reputation, robust training, and the promise of independence backed by a trusted name, she took the wheel and never looked back.

Breaking the Mold in a Man’s World

Stepping into the automotive industry as a woman wasn’t a smooth ride from the start. In a field where men have long held the keys, Jolanta faced the rumble of scepticism—initial assumptions that her technical know-how might not measure up.

“Sometimes there’s an assumption I may not have as much experience,” she admits, but she doesn’t flinch. Instead, she sees it as fuel. With every flawless repair, every satisfied customer, she turns doubters into believers.

One of the biggest positives of being a woman in a male-dominated industry is the opportunity to break stereotypes and bring a fresh perspective, she says, her words a quiet roar of defiance.

Her attention to detail and knack for communication, skills honed in retail, set her apart, earning her respect and a growing roster of loyal clients.

Grit Under the Hood

The road to success with ChipsAway hasn’t been without its potholes. Transitioning from retail to the gritty, technical world of car repair meant climbing a steep learning curve.

“There was still a learning curve in applying those skills in real-world situations,” she reflects. ChipsAway’s training, hands-on, thorough, and led by experts, gave her the horsepower she needed, but it was her own determination that kept the engine running. Building credibility in a male-heavy field took time, too. Yet, Jolanta thrives on the challenge.

“Delivering high-quality work and great customer service quickly overcomes any doubts,” she says, her confidence as polished as the vehicles she restores. Head Office’s support, national marketing, technical guidance, and a network of franchisees keep her steady, a safety net for a woman bold enough to forge her own path.

Driving Independence and Impact

Today, Jolanta’s average day is a whirlwind of freedom and fulfilment. She starts with a plan—tools ready, jobs lined up—then dives into repairs, transforming scratched paint into showroom shine. Between jobs, she’s quoting clients, managing bookings, and spreading the word about her services through social media and local buzz.

“No two days are exactly the same,” she beams, revelling in the variety. Running her own show has rewritten her life’s script. Gone are the fixed hours and capped potential of retail; now, her earnings reflect her hustle and her schedule bends to her will.

“I feel more motivated and excited about the future, knowing I’m in charge of my own success,” she says. It’s a freedom she’s earned—one dent at a time.

Empowering the Next Gear

Jolanta isn’t just building a business; she’s paving the way. Her advice to women eyeing a franchise, especially in male-dominated turf, is a spark plug of wisdom:

“Believe in yourself and your abilities.” She urges research, questions, and leaning on mentors—tools to turn hesitation into horsepower. “Don’t be intimidated by industries that may not have as many female business owners yet.” Her presence in the garage is proof that the industry is shifting, and she’s determined to inspire others to join the ride. Resilience, adaptability, and a relentless focus on quality; these are the pistons driving her success, and she’s eager to pass the torch.

As International Women’s Day celebrates women who redefine the road ahead, Jolanta Francis stands out—a woman who swapped retail shelves for repair bays, proving that skill and spirit can outpace any stereotype. She’s not just a ChipsAway franchisee; she’s a trailblazer, accelerating change one car, one client, one fearless step at a time.

Ready to Shift Your Future into Gear?

Inspired by Jolanta’s journey from retail to the driver’s seat of her own business? ChipsAway offers a road map to success for anyone with a passion for cars and a hunger for independence.

Visit the ChipsAway franchise page to dive into success stories, explore opportunities, and discover how you can join a network that fuels ambition with training, support, and a proven model. Your chance to break the mould is waiting—rev up and take the wheel today!