Barbara Cox Award

​With a background rooted in motorsport and a career forged through resilience, Blaire has become a respected leader in the automotive industry. From launching national initiatives at Mitsubishi Motors to leading cutting-edge projects in commercial vehicle innovation, she has consistently driven meaningful change. Her passion for advocacy has led her to mentor young people and champion women in traditionally male-dominated sectors. She has built a culture of empowerment and innovation, both within her teams and across the broader industry. Her journey is a testament to the power of purpose, perseverance, and impact.

​Chelsea is a passionate and resilient automotive professional who turned early challenges into fuel for a thriving career in the trade. From restoring classic cars to mentoring apprentices and speaking at schools, she’s become a powerful advocate for women in the industry and a role model for the next generation. Her leadership extends beyond the workshop—creating inclusive learning environments, supporting peers with empathy, and using her lived experience with ADHD to innovate how knowledge is shared. Whether pit-crewing for a female drag racer or hosting hands-on workshops, she lives her passion every day. Above all, she strives to be the mentor she once needed, ensuring every apprentice feels empowered, supported, and seen.

Since joining Autopact as National Head of People & Culture in 2022, Odette has brought a fresh, strategic perspective to the automotive industry, challenging the status quo and driving meaningful cultural transformation. Her leadership has fostered a people-first approach across 28 dealerships, with a strong focus on employee engagement, diversity, and well-being. Through innovative HR initiatives and a commitment to inclusivity, she has elevated Autopact’s workplace culture—reflected in outstanding employee satisfaction and pride. As a finalist for this award, she stands as a powerful example of modern leadership in a traditionally male-dominated industry. Her vision, resilience, and dedication to shaping a happier, more empowered workforce make her a true change agent in automotive.

​With a background rooted in motorsport and a career forged through resilience, Blaire has become a respected leader in the automotive industry. From launching national initiatives at Mitsubishi Motors to leading cutting-edge projects in commercial vehicle innovation, she has consistently driven meaningful change. Her passion for advocacy has led her to mentor young people and champion women in traditionally male-dominated sectors. She has built a culture of empowerment and innovation, both within her teams and across the broader industry. Her journey is a testament to the power of purpose, perseverance, and impact.

​Chelsea is a passionate and resilient automotive professional who turned early challenges into fuel for a thriving career in the trade. From restoring classic cars to mentoring apprentices and speaking at schools, she’s become a powerful advocate for women in the industry and a role model for the next generation. Her leadership extends beyond the workshop—creating inclusive learning environments, supporting peers with empathy, and using her lived experience with ADHD to innovate how knowledge is shared. Whether pit-crewing for a female drag racer or hosting hands-on workshops, she lives her passion every day. Above all, she strives to be the mentor she once needed, ensuring every apprentice feels empowered, supported, and seen.

Since joining Autopact as National Head of People & Culture in 2022, Odette has brought a fresh, strategic perspective to the automotive industry, challenging the status quo and driving meaningful cultural transformation. Her leadership has fostered a people-first approach across 28 dealerships, with a strong focus on employee engagement, diversity, and well-being. Through innovative HR initiatives and a commitment to inclusivity, she has elevated Autopact’s workplace culture—reflected in outstanding employee satisfaction and pride. As a finalist for this award, she stands as a powerful example of modern leadership in a traditionally male-dominated industry. Her vision, resilience, and dedication to shaping a happier, more empowered workforce make her a true change agent in automotive.