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Get to Know Fatimata Ndiaye, Bodyshop Mechanic at Autohero Montataire

26 May 2025

When you step into our Autohero production center in Montataire, France, you’ll quickly notice the buzz of teamwork and the hum of machinery. Among our talented team members is Fatimata, who has built a reputation as a skilled bodyshop mechanic and a supportive teammate, proving that passion and perseverance can open doors in even the most traditional industries.

From a LinkedIn Scroll to a New Chapter
Fatimata’s journey with Autohero began with a simple scroll through LinkedIn. “I was looking for a new challenge and a company where I could truly grow,” she recalls. After years honing her craft, she was ready for something bigger. A job posting caught her eye, and a warm, genuine conversation with our team sealed the deal.

But the road wasn’t always smooth. “As a woman in a male-dominated field, I faced several rejections before finding Autohero. Here, I felt welcomed and valued from day one.” This sense of belonging is not just a nice-to-have, but the secret sauce that keeps our production site running smoothly and our people thriving. With many colleagues split between morning and afternoon shifts, there’s always someone to lend a hand or share a laugh. “We support each other, share knowledge, and celebrate our successes together. It’s a real family atmosphere.”

Autonomy, Impact, and the Joy of the Unexpected
Ask Fatimata what she loves most about her job, and her answer is immediate: “The trust and autonomy. I can organize my work and make decisions. Every day is different - sometimes it’s a quick fix, other times it’s a full bodywork repair. No two days are ever the same, and that keeps things exciting.” Some days, she’s changing a headlight or fixing a dashboard. Other days, she’s sanding, painting, or handling more complex repairs. “Every vehicle brings a new challenge and a new opportunity to learn.”

There’s also a tangible sense of pride in her work. “It’s rewarding to see the results of what I do, knowing I’m contributing to the quality and safety of vehicles that will soon be on the roads. Honestly, I feel proud every day to be part of this team and this company. Compared to my previous job, where the environment was sometimes challenging, here I feel supported and appreciated, which makes all the difference.”

Fatimata’s Insights and Advice for Success
Fatimata is quick to point out what is needed to be successful as a bodyshop mechanic. “You need to be in good physical shape, and patience is key as unexpected issues come up all the time. Attention to detail is crucial, and teamwork is everything. We rely on each other, and good communication makes the job more enjoyable and efficient.” She also highlights the importance of adaptability: “The automotive industry is always evolving. Being open to learning new techniques and technologies is essential.”

But for anyone considering a similar path, especially women or young people who might feel hesitant, Fatimata has a clear message: “Don’t be discouraged by stereotypes or obstacles. If you’re passionate about cars and enjoy working with your hands, there’s a place for you in this industry. Companies like ours are opening doors for everyone, and diversity only makes us stronger. Believe in yourself, keep learning, and don’t be afraid to take on new challenges - you might be surprised by what you can achieve.”

Fatimata’s story is just one of many at AUTO1 Group. As we expand our production centers across Europe, we’re looking for passionate, driven people to join the team. To start your story, find the list of open positions on our careers page. We welcome applicants of all genders, ethnicities, religions, and backgrounds to apply.