In a powerful shift for a traditionally male-dominated sector, a Canberra automotive workshop is fundamentally rethinking what it means to be an inclusive employer. Car Mechanical Services, led by owners Charlie and Raffy Sgroi, is using its platform to drive significant social and environmental change, proving that purpose and profit can go hand in hand.
More Than a Mechanic: A Platform for Progressive Change
With Charlie Sgroi's 45 years of hands-on mechanical experience and Raffy's passionate advocacy, the business has transcended its role as a simple repair shop. They have established it as a beacon for progressive action, championing inclusion, diversity, and sustainability. This mission is deeply personal, born from their experience creating employment opportunities for Charlie's brother, Richardo, who has Down syndrome.
This personal journey directly inspired the creation of their flagship initiative: the free Career Portfolio Program. Developed through Raffy's consulting venture, Sage Advice, this comprehensive 12-week scheme does far more than teach technical skills.
Building Life Skills and Confidence
The program's core objective is to encourage young people, including neurodivergent individuals and those living with different abilities, to explore a career in the automotive trades. Raffy Sgroi emphasises the program's holistic approach, which is conducted in partnership with local Canberra colleges and specialised recruitment agencies.
"The program runs for 12 weeks and covers everything from understanding workplace rights and responsibilities to building a resume, preparing for interviews, recognising strengths, and advocating for personal limits," says Raffy.
She also highlights the enduring value of the skills taught, even if a participant decides against an automotive career. "It's ok if you don't want to carry on working in the automotive industry, but what you will take away is life skills. You'll learn how to look after your car and how to avoid being taken advantage of when it comes to repairs."
Tapping into Australia's Untapped Talent Pool
Raffy is actively encouraging other businesses to adopt similar inclusive practices. She urges employers to look beyond visible disabilities, pointing out that a large percentage of the 5.5 million Australians who identify as having a disability live with invisible conditions like chronic fatigue, mental disorders, anxiety, and depression.
"We need to give these people a fair go as a society and open our minds to how we can be an employer of choice and accommodate them in our workplaces," she states.
This inclusive strategy also addresses one of the automotive sector's most persistent problems: a critical labour shortage. By intentionally widening the recruitment net, businesses can access a skilled and dedicated workforce they have previously overlooked.
"For employers facing critical staffing shortages, the Career Portfolio Program demonstrates that widening the recruitment net to include women and people with disabilities isn't just socially responsible, it's a smart business strategy," Raffy explains. This approach brings fresh perspectives and untapped talent to an industry in desperate need of innovation.
The program also has a strong dual focus on breaking gender barriers, actively working to create more welcoming environments for women instead of asking them to adapt to toxic cultures. Raffy's philosophy is clear: "Your difference is your strength. Don't try to fit into their mould, break it and create a better one."
She identifies skills often associated with women, such as emotional intelligence and collaborative leadership, not as weaknesses but as superpowers to leverage for industry improvement.
After decades in the industry, the driving force for Charlie and Raffy Sgroi is now crystal clear. "After so many years in the industry, you realise it's not just about profit - it's about purpose," Raffy says. "That's what drives us."
