‘My parents realised I had passion for technical things and encouraged me’
KEHINDE ADEKOYA, holds a Bachelor degree in Mechanical Engineering and has consistently ensured she raises the bar in her field. She speaks with KEMI AJUMOBI on her aspirations and more. Excerpts
Early years till date
As a young girl, I wanted to be a pilot or a Mechanical Engineer. I thought that a Mechanical Engineer’s job was solely to fix cars and generator sets. I loved the idea of being able to do that and that is what motivated me to study mechanical engineering. I finally got my first exposure to an engine and its operations when I took Auto-Mech as a subject in secondary school. It made me even more curious and determined to learn more about how engines work.
I grew up in a middle class family; I have a twin sister and an older brother. My Dad is quite science oriented and believes we all should be too. We were allowed to express ourselves.
As a young girl, I would always be around my dad when he had to do anything on his car from changing tyres, to adjusting carburettor. When the generator repairer comes around, I will find myself staying with him and helping in getting the tools needed. My parents realised I had passion for technical things and encouraged me. In secondary school, I was in Applied Science department which helped on my path to becoming an engineer. When I graduated and wanted to intern at an Auto-repair shop, I was encouraged. Now I fix everybody’s car in the house.
SIWES and Code Red Auto-shop experience
At university, through Student Industrial Work Experience Scheme (SIWES), I interned with Lady Mechanic Initiatives, where I met other ladies who were also in the business of fixing cars. After graduating from the University and before NYSC, I volunteered to work at CODE RED AUTO-SHOP as a mechanic and I spent my free time there ever since. While still trying to pursue a career in Engineering, currently, I work as a fleet engineer.
Any clear differences between a mechanic and a mechanical engineer?
A Mechanic is a craftsman or technician that uses skills and tools to build and repair machineries. A Mechanical Engineer on the other hand applies the principles of engineering, physics and materials science for the design, analysis, manufacturing and maintenance of mechanical systems.
Do you have challenges on the job because you are female?
The fact is that the job is physically challenging, but I have learnt ways to handle tasks with least effort. Finding my balance, looking for the right momentum, the right angle from which to pull and turn tools while working has made the job to be least challenging.
How are you coping in a male dominated terrain?
The Auto repair shop I work with is mainly male dominated but my colleagues and most especially my boss @dautodoc has made it quite easy, by pushing me to take up challenges and when tasks are assigned we all work together as a team and no one looks down at me for being a female mechanic. We all play our parts to get the job done. I feel very comfortable in overalls and real cool when I see people gape at me in shock and awe when I change brake pads, drain engine oil and so on.
Meeting the Lady Mechanic
The Lady Mechanic has always been an inspiration knowing there is someone out there doing what I love to do and excelling at it. My course mate from University mentioned he was interning at her Autoshop, so I told him I was interested and he put in a word for me, so I got to intern with her for a short time. Being there with other female mechanics really encouraged me. The Lady Mechanic helped putting everything in the right perspective, defining my motives properly and showing me how to profit from the business. This encouraged me immensely.
Pursuing a career in Engineering
To be registered as an Engineer in Nigeria requires that one has some level of professional experience and minimum four years working experience. I do not want to be the Mechanic next door but one with a professional background. Where I work at the moment gives me the exposure and experience I will need to run a successful Auto-Mechanic centre.
What are the duties of a fleet engineer and how do you carry it out?
Prior to being a fleet engineer (glorified mechanic), I worked as a maintenance engineer.
I used to maintain power solutions on telecoms base stations but, the management of the company noticed my passion for car repairs and transferred me to the fleet department where I diagnose, repair, service and create maintenance schedules for the fleet of vehicles.
What kind of cars do you fix? Any area of specialisation?
I do not like to put a limitation on myself by saying I do a particular brand. In reality almost all automobile engines work on the same principle with extra addition or difference. I fix cars with petrol engine but I have issue with American cars because of unavailability of spare parts in Nigeria.
How can you be reached?
Via Instagram @kennyrhema,email- info.famts@gmail.com or 07054026983
What advice do you have for young girls who desire to follow your career path?
Becoming a Mechanic is a process which starts with gathering necessary technical skills and knowledge on how cars work, learning how to diagnose, repair and understanding the trade.
Female mechanics are taking strides in the industry which has made it more acceptable as a career. I strongly believe in interning and volunteering, if you are passionate about being a Mechanic find an auto repair shop where you intern or volunteer. In the nearest future, I plan on training a lot of young girls in the Auto-Mechanic skill. You are not weird but unique for wanting to be a Female Mechanic.
Final words
Seest thou a man diligent in his business? He shall stand before kings; he shall not stand before mean men. – Proverbs 22: 29. Diligence is required in all our pursuits in life. Walking in diligence takes you to the high places of life.