It wasn’t a passion for cars that led Barbara Johnson to the automotive industry – it was a blown head gasket. A costly repair that she couldn’t afford the then 20-something was forced to take matters into her own hands – literally – and perform the repair herself. Little did she know that decision would set the course for her life’s journey.
Using her self-taught skills, Ms. Johnson continued to service her own vehicles in the following years. Eventually, these skills and her desire to help others led Barbara to start a “Mobile Mechanic Ministry.” Donating her labor (and often parts, as well) she drives her tool-loaded minivan to meet those in need of repairs they cannot afford. She estimates that in ten years, she’s helped upwards of 200 people in her Wilkesboro, North Carolina community.
In 2008, Barbara’s direction began to change course when she decided she wanted to go back to school. As cars were becoming more sophisticated, she recognized the benefits of a formal education. She also knew that some people were a bit hesitant to let an uncertified mechanic – a female one at that! – work on their vehicle. She says, “When you say you’re an ASE Certified Master Tech, it puts people at ease.” In 2011 she enrolled in the Automotive Systems Technology program at Wilkes Community College
As graduation neared and her next step needed to be determined, she decided to follow her natural instinct to teach and agreed to become an instructor at Wilkes. In January of 2013, Barbara Johnson became the first female instructor in the Transportation segment, teaching classes on Engine Performance, Steering & Suspension, and her favorite: Brakes.
Barbara Johnson (center) poses with her class at Wilkes Community College.
With the exception of one young man who specifically requested not to be in her class, Barbara’s 34 students don’t treat her any differently than the other teachers. Three of her current students are women and she’s excited to see what opportunities arise for them, saying “Everyone wants a female Master Tech.”
Even through this first semester as an instructor, Barbara has been able to continue her Mobile Mechanic Ministry. This doesn’t leave her much free time, and she admits that if she did have any, she wouldn’t spend it around cars. However, if anyone wants to send her a ’69 Impala – preferably black and chrome – she’d be happy to take it.
Red Kap Automotive 