What’s a girl (or boy) to do if the car gets a flat tire? Students at High Tech High Media Arts (HTHMA) in Point Loma won’t fret; they’ll know how to change a tire and more, thanks to an innovative partnership with Girlie Garage. HTHMA and Girlie Garage are collaborating on an after-school program designed to demystify auto mechanics for students, fostering both practical skills and confidence in automotive knowledge.

Founded by Talena Handley, Girlie Garage is at the forefront of making auto mechanics more accessible for all students, especially females. The program empowers students with the knowledge and skills to break down barriers confidently, and challenge gender stereotypes in the field of auto mechanics. Its automotive info session workshop is a highly successful, 3-hour intensive workshop, completed in 1 day. This format enables students to grasp the basics of auto mechanics within a concise timeframe. 

Participants gain hands-on experience, many working on their own vehicles. The curriculum covers essential skills such as tire changes, basic car safety, and effective communication with mechanics.

Highlighting the program’s success, this year has seen a current HTHMA student (who previously participated in the automotive info session workshop), take up an internship with Girlie Garage. This opportunity has provided an in-depth look not only into auto mechanics but also into the operational aspects of the business. 

Further expanding its reach, Talena has developed a YouTube channel with multitudes of free automotive information.

“My graduated workshop attendee-turned-intern, Destiny, was the most amazing intern I have had,” Handley said. “I cannot say enough positive things about her. She now has the safety and confidence to work on cars down to a science and can speak automotive lingo. She also has resources on where to find parts and can safely instruct another group about how to change a tire and the importance of tire tread and tire pressure.”

The after-school program runs from 3-6 p.m., twice a semester, offering a turbo-charged extracurricular experience for students interested in automotive maintenance and repair. This semester’s workshops were scheduled for March 12 and April 30, 2024.