A ROLE MODEL FOR AUTO BODY REPAIR’S NEXT GENERATION, MADDIE CUNNINGHAM IS A STANDOUT TECHNICIAN DEDICATED TO MENTORING APPRENTICES AND WOMEN IN THE TRADES
Maddie Cunningham’s career in auto body repair has been defined by achievement and determination — from graduating at the top of her apprenticeship class to using her hard-earned income to purchase her first home.
A standout technician and a dedicated ambassador for apprentices and women in the trades at Fix Auto Sherwood Park, Maddie has been described as “a true face of the auto body industry” and “a role model for the next generation entering the trade.” Last year, she was nominated for Collision Repair magazine’s 30 Under 40 by Scott Koughan, owner of Fix Auto Sherwood Park and Fix Auto Sherwood North.
Maddie’s path into the collision repair industry began at a young age, fueled by a natural attention to detail and a passion for hands-on work. Once she realized the trade offered long-term career opportunities, she began working as a detailer before advancing to lead the parts department. She later returned to school to become a technician, building a strong foundation that would shape her future success.
After graduating, Maddie took on an educational role within the Fix Auto Sherwood Park apprenticeship program, teaching more than five technicians — including two women — to become Journeyperson Auto Body Technicians. She also helped train experienced Journeypeople on how to effectively mentor and educate newcomers to the trade. According to Koughan, this contribution has been “fundamental to the future of the trade and to the ongoing success of Fix Auto Sherwood Park.”
What continues to motivate Maddie is the challenge of restoring damaged vehicles to pre-accident condition. Each repair presents a new problem to solve, keeping her engaged and excited to come to work. She credits the Fix Auto Sherwood Park management team for providing consistent support and positive feedback throughout her apprenticeship — support that helped build her confidence and sharpen her skills.
“With the continuing advancements throughout the autobody industry and the vehicles becoming increasingly more complex to repair, having the resources available such as OEM procedures, service bulletins, these industry publications keep me up to date with the new advancements and requirements,” Maddie said.
“With continuous support and provided training through work all available resources are accessible to make sure repairs are done to an excellent standard and I am progressing alongside the advancing industry.”
“I can see how learning these new technologies will open up great opportunities... including the opportunity to one day teach the younger generation what I’ve learned.” — Maddie Cunningham
Maddie has also become a regular speaker at registered apprenticeship program sessions, where she highlights both the value of the collision repair industry and the long-term potential of an auto body technician career. Koughan points to these efforts as a reflection of Maddie’s natural leadership and her ability to break down traditional barriers within the trades.
As a female technician who completed an apprenticeship program, Maddie understands firsthand the challenges posed by smaller class sizes and the limited representation of women in the industry. That awareness drives her commitment to speaking at schools, where she shares her experiences and career goals to show students what’s possible. Her eagerness to continue learning has also kept her ahead of the curve; through Fix Auto, she has completed advanced training in welding, glue pulling and aluminum repair.
“From my experience with speaking at schools, I have observed the women in the class expressing interest in not only autobody but the trades in general because they can build the life they want for themselves. When I speak at the schools it’s important to me to relay that if you are a women choosing a trade as a career, you’re breaking barriers no matter what. It takes tremendous courage to do so,” she said. “Since I entered the trade, I have seen more women come into it which is huge.That’s something we haven’t seen in autobody ever. The barriers are slowly getting broken down by mentorship and visibility for women. I am a huge advocate for women seeking any opportunity to chase their goals and ambitions, women just need an opportunity to do so.”
For Maddie, learning doesn’t end with personal growth — it’s about preparing the next generation. “The collision repair industry is undergoing rapid transformation driven by changes in vehicle technology, consumer expectations, sustainability and longevity goals,” she said. “I can see how learning these new technologies will open up great opportunities... including the opportunity to one day teach the younger generation what I’ve learned.”
Scott believes Maddie’s curiosity and innovative mindset set an example for the industry.
“Maddie shows how powerful it is to lead with authenticity and passion,” he said. “She’s a reminder that talent thrives when it’s supported by drive, mentorship and a commitment to excellence.” Looking ahead, Maddie says the next step in her career is to continue advocating for women in the trades as well as developing into a leader so she can mentor apprentices.
“Being a technician is fulfilling for me as I am constantly learning and evolving,” she said.
