Service Director, Bertera Auto Group: Age 38
Felicia Barr says her journey through the ranks in the automotive service world has been a satisfying one, but she also hopes it’s inspirational.
“I teach my children that if you work hard, care about something, and show up, everything is possible,” she said. “When I look at my career, it was hard work, showing up on time every day, asking questions … it works.”
But it’s not only her own three children she aims to inspire. Barr is also heavily involved with local vocational schools through mentorships and co-ops, aiming to draw more young people into what has been a rewarding field.
“I’ve had one student since he was 16; now he’s going to be 20. I’ve had him here for a few years. I can watch them grow into young adults — that’s probably the most rewarding thing I do in my job. Those years can be kind of a rough time, not knowing what they want to do in life. But this is a place they can come and find themselves.”
Barr certainly found herself; from her entry role as a greeter in the service department of one of Bertera’s dealership, she became a service advisor, then manager of the Service department at Metro Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram in Chicopee. There, the revamped the entire department, doubling its size and offering more service options to area car owners.
She has also used her leadership role to connect Bertera with local nonprofits, especially those benefiting families and children. She has worked extensively with children’s charity Unbroken Wings to benefit the Children’s Miracle Network (CMN), helping organize fundraisers like the Thunder in the Valley music festival and Cruising for a Cause, as well as themed car shows at the Metro dealership, all to benefit kids.
“You can see where the money is actually going, and that’s what I love,” Barr said of Baystate Children’s Hospital, the region’s only CMN hospital. “My children have had to go to the hospital; my niece was in the NICU for two months. And you see the cameras that allow you to see your children when you’re not there? Well, the money we raised helped to purchase those. So to actually see that come to fruition is incredible.
“When I was a kid, I had an immune deficiency, and I was in and out of hospitals. I remember the nurses who cared for me; they meant a lot,” she added. “I want to help people in need — and children can’t speak for themselves.”
—Joseph Bednar
