Junior Lyra Telley expertly removes a tire from a used car in her auto technology class. Telley stands out from her classmates, not only because she is one of two girls in the class, but also because of her diligence and precision.
Telley’s passion for auto repair and mechanics began in part due to her family’s enthusiasm for cars.
“I come from a family that loves working on cars,” Telley said. “My grandfather taught me a lot of what I know about cars today, and the auto tech class has expanded my knowledge as well.”
In the auto technology classes offered at Marshall High School, Telley learned everything there is to know about vehicles and applied that knowledge through hands-on automotive work.
“We get to know the ins and outs of cars,” Telley said. “We learn about the bodies, the parts of the wheels and how to use the tools.”
In Automotive Technology 2 and 3, students advance further into the automotive curriculum by learning how to repair used cars. These cars can then be sold in their student-run auto sales shop.
“We can bring in our own cars to work on, and the teachers will help us fix them,” Telley said. “Occasionally, we get teachers who bring in their cars, explain to us what’s wrong with the car and then give us a [repair cost] estimate.”
Telley credits the class with giving her the opportunity to work with cars in a way that mirrors career professionals.
“The first time that we got hands-on in the shop was the moment where I really, really fell in love with not just the class, but the whole industry in general,” Telley said.
Since then, Telley has continuously proven her aptitude and natural skill in automotive technology.
“Lyra’s enthusiasm for life and being around others gives her a leg up in the automotive industry,” auto tech teacher Scott Reid said. “Communication and executive functioning skills are key to being successful in the automotive industry, and she has both.”
Despite her success in the class, Telley has faced challenges as a result of pursuing a career in a male-dominated field.
“Being a woman in the [field], you definitely get told that you don’t know how to do [something] or you’re doing it wrong,” Telley said.
However, Telley refuses to let others’ opinions be an obstacle to accomplishing her goals.
“These [challenges] make me fall in love with [the industry] even more because I like to prove people wrong,” Telley said.
Telley’s dedication and motivation to learn more about mechanics have earned her the respect and admiration of others.
“Hearing her talk about the details of what they do [in auto tech] and all of the things they learn, it’s clear she is really passionate about it,” physics teacher Sean Jones said.
After she graduates high school, Telley plans to attend a trade school to pursue a professional career as a mechanic.
“If girls want to [follow] this interest, I think they should,” Telley said. “It’s probably one of the most fun activities you can do.
