In a world where the automotive industry has long been dominated by men, one woman has turned her frustration into a groundbreaking business that empowers women and changes the way we think about car care. Genius entrepreneur Patrice Banks owns Girls Auto Clinic in Philadelphia, a business that is more than just a repair shop—it is a movement aimed at countering female exploitation in traditional auto repair settings.
For many women, visiting a mechanic can be an intimidating and often uncomfortable experience. Stories of women being talked down to, overcharged, or simply ignored at repair shops are far too common. Patrice Banks, once an engineer at DuPont, realized she was part of the problem—she herself avoided mechanics because she didn’t trust them. Instead of accepting the status quo, she decided to change it. Banks enrolled in automotive school, became a certified mechanic, and opened Girls Auto Clinic in 2017.
Her vision was clear: create a repair shop where women felt respected, informed, and empowered. Girls Auto Clinic not only provides professional auto repair services, but it also includes unique features that set it apart from the competition. For example, the business employs female mechanics, whom Banks proudly calls “Shecanics.” This representation alone sends a strong message that women belong in every corner of the industry.
But Girls Auto Clinic doesn’t stop at fixing cars. The business also offers car-care workshops designed specifically for women. These classes help customers understand the basics of vehicle maintenance, from changing a tire to checking oil levels, ensuring they never feel helpless or dependent when it comes to their cars.
Another innovative aspect of the clinic is its adjoining Clutch Beauty Bar, where women can get their nails done or hair styled while waiting for their car to be serviced. This creative pairing emphasizes Banks’ commitment to blending practicality with empowerment, showing that auto care doesn’t have to be intimidating or unwelcoming.
Patrice Banks has not only built a successful business but also sparked a larger conversation about equality, representation, and respect in the workplace. Girls Auto Clinic stands as a symbol of change, reminding us that with courage and innovation, industries can be reshaped to better serve everyone.
