Founded by Lorraine H. Schultz in 1995, the Women’s Automotive Association International (WAAI) is the automotive industry’s premier professional organization.  Their mission is to recognize the achievements of women in the industry, provide educational e-news to automotive career-focused individuals, build relationships through networking and other interactive forums, and encourage growth through mentoring, educational endeavors and scholarships.

The focus of the Association is on the development and retention of women leaders and the education and support of all persons, without prejudice, who have an interest in the automotive industry.

In 2007, WAAI teamed up with www.AutoTrader.com to establish an employee scholarship program that’s available to all AutoTrader.com employees and their family members who were enrolled in a vocational, undergrad or grad program on a full or part time basis.  The International Scholarship Committee and AutoTrader.com wanted to make a significant contribution to students who were pursuing an education in order to further themselves in an automotive related career.

The WAAI’s Governing Board of Directors created a Statement of Trust which most definitely shows ladies in the industry why being a member of the Association is well worth it: 

“As women professionals, we are leaders, we are visible, we are accountable and we are determined.  People inside, and outside, of the automotive industry observe what we say and do.  The Women’s Automotive Association International strives, each and every day, to meet the expectations of our family, employers, members, supporters and sponsors.  Through the quality of our leadership, our words, our objectives and our commitment, we continually seek to maintain the respect and trust of those around us, as well as our position as the world’s leading professional organization supporting women within the automotive industry.  It is for these purposes that we survive as an organization and remain the one organization with one vision, one mission and many minds.”

Annual regular membership for the organization is $90.00, while sustaining membership is $130.00, and a student membership is just $25.00
 
Whether you’re a college student or an automotive industry professional, the WAAI is beneficial for any woman at any stage of their career.

For more information on the Association or to join, visit http://www.waai.com.

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