The Women’s Industry Network has named Haylie Colby, a painter with Nuss Collision Center, as the inaugural recipient of its Founding Mothers Award.
The newly established award recognizes women working as technicians or painters on the shop floor who demonstrate passion, perseverance and purpose while shaping the future of the collision repair industry. Planned as an annual presentation, the honour also celebrates WIN’s six founding members — Frederica Carter, Geri Kottschade, Gigi Walker, Patricia Serratore, Kathy Mello and Marcy Tieger — and the organization’s mission to support women in the trade.
Colby, who entered the industry through a part-time role, has built a full-time career over the past three years, developing a reputation for quality and attention to detail. Mentored by a retiring painter, she has expanded her technical expertise while taking on added responsibilities, including managing paint inventory and assisting in training colleagues.
“Haylie was mentored by a retiring painter and has developed advanced technical expertise and continues to expand her knowledge of painting processes and shop operations. She has taken on additional responsibilities, including managing paint inventory and assisting in training others, reflecting both her initiative and growing leadership,” said Christy Casler, service advisor and bodyshop administrator at Nuss Truck & Equipment.
WIN vice-chair Laura Kottschade noted the award focuses on hands-on professionals who excel in their craft while mentoring others.
Colby will receive a prize package including up to US$5,000 ($6,750) in tools and equipment, an all-expenses-paid trip to the WIN Annual Conference and a ($1,350) apparel stipend.
She and the 2026 Most Influential Women will be recognized at the WIN Annual Conference, scheduled for May 4–6, 2026, in Tucson, Ariz.
