Spotlight: 5 Questions With Automotive Educator Melissa Wahe

Melissa Wahe is a pioneering entrepreneur and educator who is transforming the car ownership experience, particularly for women and underserved communities, through innovative automotive education. Her vision centers on empowering drivers through comprehensive training programs that enhance safety, confidence, and independence on the road. With a background in automotive repair and a passion for education, Melissa has created a unique approach to automotive literacy that resonates with diverse audiences.
  

Through CarmaCare California, Melissa has developed a range of initiatives that equip participants with essential automotive skills. Her Women Empowered! Automotive Education Workshop is a standout program that challenges industry stereotypes and fosters self-sufficiency among women drivers. Other innovative courses include “Let’s Learn Teslas,” which focuses on electric vehicle technology, “Women’s Automotive Education 101,” providing a comprehensive introduction to car maintenance, and “Car 101 for Women,” tailored to address common concerns and questions from female drivers. By partnering with local businesses, automotive professionals, and educational institutions, Melissa expands access to critical vehicle maintenance education, ensuring that more people can navigate car ownership with confidence.
 
 

Melissa’s impact extends beyond education; she is a strong advocate for consumer rights, working to ensure that drivers are well-informed and protected when dealing with repair shops, insurance providers, and vehicle service contracts. Her commitment to fairness and accessibility has positioned CarmaCare California as a leader in the movement toward a more transparent and equitable automotive industry. As Melissa continues to grow her business, she remains dedicated to reshaping the automotive landscape, empowering every driver with the knowledge and support needed to thrive.

5 Questions We Asked and She Answered:

1. How did you develop a passion for cars and/or motorsports?
I’ve always had a passion for driving, but after I died on the operating table and lost the feeling in my left leg, I decided to rehab it by racing my WRX in autocross.

2. What advice do you have for people who want to break into the motorsports and auto industry?
Just do it. Go to auto shows and talk to people. Go to the places that you want to work and talk to the people doing the jobs you want to do. People will be helpful because they want to share the passion that they have for this field.

3. If you could drive any car, what would it be and why?
I would like to drive a McLaren F1 because it’s supposed to be the truly ideal, perfectly balanced race car of our time.

4. If you could attend any car/motorsports event in the world, which would you choose? Why?
Goodwood Festival of Speed just looks like so much fun to me. It’s so old-fashioned and pure.

5. What’s the most exciting car event/race you’ve ever attended?
I have to say, just attending Good Vibes Breakfast Club on any given Friday can be pretty exciting. I’ve seen some pretty amazing cars there and met the most delightful people, including Tommy Kendall and Daniel Ricciardo.


A Glance at Her in Action: