International Women’s Day series: Aubriana-Maria Sablan & Chiu Cho Yi
In recognition of International Women’s Day, we’re featuring colleagues across Inchcape’s global operations and shining a spotlight on their experiences.
We continue this series with Aubriana-Maria Sablan, the first female Lube Technician in Saipan, and Chiu Cho Yi, Vehicle Repairer at our service centre in Shatin, Hong Kong SAR. Both Aubriana and Cho Yi have established themselves as valuable team members, overseeing repairing processes, and showcasing the presence of women in technician roles.
Aubriana – As the Lube Technician in Saipan, what motivated you to choose this career, and what has the experience been like so far?
Aubriana: I was motivated to become a tech because I was fascinated by every aspect of the work. The opportunity to break stereotypes, work in a shop, and prove myself to those who doubted me only fuelled my motivation. The journey has been both rewarding and transformative. I’ve not only gained valuable technical skills but also built resilience and confidence. It’s been fulfilling to break barriers, and I am proud to inspire others, especially women, to pursue careers they might not have considered before.
Cho Yi – How did you get started in the automotive industry, and what path did you follow to get to your current role?
Cho Yi: My journey into the automotive industry began with my engineering background. Before joining Inchcape, I honed my skills as an aviation and yachting technician, eager to learn and grow. My passion for engineering and drive to continually develop my skills brought me to my current position at the Inchcape Service Centre, where I’m proud to oversee car steel structural processes.
What does this year’s International Women’s Day theme, Accelerate Action, mean to you both?
Aubriana: To me, “Accelerate Action” goes beyond talking about gender equality. It’s about taking deliberate, impactful steps to make change happen now. It’s a call for urgency in pushing for women’s representation, equal opportunities, and leadership across all industries.
Cho Yi: “Accelerate Action” is about taking proactive steps to attract more women to the automotive, engineering, and other sectors. I believe that introducing EV and engineering skills programmes at high schools for young women would be a fantastic start. It would provide early exposure and highlight the exciting career paths available. The automotive industry is evolving rapidly, with technology at the heart. This is a great opportunity for anyone interested in joining the industry!
Aubriana – How do you see the industry changing for women in technical roles?
Aubriana: I see the industry evolving towards greater inclusivity. More companies are prioritising diversity, with mentorship programs, equal opportunities, and more supportive work environments. As awareness grows, I believe more women will be encouraged to pursue and thrive in technical roles, leading to a richer, more innovative industry.
Cho Yi – What’s the mindset needed to succeed in your field?
Cho Yi: Focusing on the job and constant learning, and not letting gender be an issue. It’s important to complement each other’s skills and experience in a team and maintain a sense of humour and confidence in one’s abilities.
Aubriana – What message would you share with anyone thinking of choosing a career as a technician in the industry?
Aubriana: Go for it! The automotive industry is full of opportunities to learn, grow, and innovate, especially as a technician. Don’t let gender or stereotypes hold you back. Stay curious, be confident, and seek out mentors who can support you along the way.
Cho Yi – What’s the most valuable advice or lesson a mentor has given you?
Cho Yi: The most valuable advice I received came from my mentor, my father. He always emphasised that life skills are essential for everyone. From a young age, he taught me how to perform DIY tasks, like changing light bulbs and repairing home appliances. He instilled in me the belief that these skills are crucial for everyone. I consider my father a diversity pioneer and credit him for inspiring me to pursue a career in engineering.
My mentor and the team at Inchcape are also incredibly supportive – they are like teachers and friends who value talent, embrace diversity, and make me feel comfortable and respected. It’s what “Better Together” is all about!
A huge thank you to Aubriana and Cho Yi for sharing their stories and insights on what International Women’s Day and Accelerating Action means to them. Stay tuned for more insights from our Inchcape colleagues in the coming days.