Toronto, Ontario -- The Women’s Industry Network has extended the nomination deadline for its inaugural Founding Mothers Award to Feb. 2, 2026, and outlined the benefits and prizes that will be awarded to the first recipient.
The Founding Mothers Award recognizes women actively working in the collision repair industry who demonstrate excellence in their craft and a commitment to mentoring others. The award is open to all women in the industry, and neither nominators nor nominees are required to be WIN members.
The recipient will receive up to US$5,000 toward professional tools or equipment. Technicians may select tools from their preferred brand, while painters may choose a premium paint gun. Any remaining funds may be applied toward additional tools, continuing education or other eligible work-related expenses, with receipts required.
The award package also includes a US$1,000 apparel stipend that can be used for workwear or conference attire, including Gala clothing. In addition, the recipient will receive a fully covered experience at the WIN Annual Conference, including registration, lodging and round-trip airfare.
WIN will also recognize both the award recipient and their shop. Shop owners or managers may attend the conference using a discounted pass.
The award honours the six founding mothers of WIN — Frederica Carter, Geri Kottschade, Gigi Walker, Patricia Serratore, Kathy Mello and Marcy Tieger — who established the organization 20 years ago to support connection, mentorship and opportunity for women in collision repair. Founding Mothers Kottschade, Carter and Tieger continue to provide input on the award criteria.
“Key considerations for this new, prestigious award will include excellence in their craft, as well as mentoring others to success in repair excellence,” noted Laura Kottschade, WIN vice-chair. Eligibility is focused on women whose skills remain active on the shop floor as refinish technicians or painters.
The inaugural Founding Mothers Award recipient will be recognized alongside the 2026 class of Most Influential Women at WIN’s Annual Conference, scheduled for May 4–6, 2026, in Tucson, Ariz.
