I have been working in the motorcycle industry for over 20 years. My first job out of college was on staff at the Motorcycle Safety Program in Oregon, where I grew up. I enjoyed teaching the classes and knew I had found my career niche. Some classes were for women only, while others were mixed gender. I later got a graduate degree in Marketing, which I’ve put to use in the industry. One advantage to being female in the industry is that you stand out . . . but for every advantage there is a disadvantage, such as having to work harder to prove yourself. There is the added benefit that women network well; we proactively try to help each other out, which I think comes out of need because there is a lack of mentorship in the motorcycle industry. My advice to women wanting to work in the motorcycle industry is simple: don’t expect a job just because you ride. You should look for positions that apply to your experience and education, just like in any other industry. Unless you’re applying to be a racer, motorcycling is secondary to the requirements of a specific job—it’s also a great perk! This advice is gender neutral, by the way.
