Bella Mewburn

1. Tell us a bit about yourself:

• What’s your name?

  Bella Mewburn

• Where are you from?

  Perth but have recently moved to Karratha

• What inspired you to explore the tire industry?

  I was working as a mine site cleaner and met the team on my current site. I was keen to join their team and get onto the tools and begin my career in the industry. 

2. Career Path:

• Do you have prior experience in the automotive or related industries?

  Prior, I had no automotive experience and only 10 months mining experience as a mine site cleaner and leading hand supervisor. 

• What skills or knowledge are you most excited to bring to the tire industry? 

  I think being part of the female drive to include women in such a male driven industry is something I am proud to be a part of. 

3. Goals and Aspirations:

• What are your career goals in the tire industry?

  My career goals are to continue to grow my knowledge and skills as a tyre fitter and eventually become a tyre technician. 

• Are there specific areas (sales, manufacturing, engineering, management) that interest you most?

  At current, I love being hands on working on the trucks. Learning all the general aspects, troubleshooting and being part of the team of keeping our mining vehicles on the road.

4. Challenges and Opportunities:

• What challenges do you anticipate facing as a woman in this industry?

  Not having the same strength as the men and not having a strong background in automotive and tooling. 

• How do you think your perspective can bring positive change to the industry?

  Being a tough baddie and staying strong! 

5. Industry Knowledge:

• Do you already have a favorite tire brand or type? (If yes, share why!)

  Not yet! 

• Have you taken any training or certification related to tires or automotive work?

  In March, I finished my Cert II traineeship with Otraco. My training has been detailed and thorough onsite, I am so very lucky to have the team and leading hand that I do, who are dedicated to providing the best training for me.

6. Networking and Mentorship:

• What would you like to learn from others in the tire industry?

  I guess the background production work prior to tyres reaching site and how we make a difference in the mining industry. 

• Are you interested in connecting with mentors or support groups?

  Absolutely! 

7. Fun Facts About You:

• Do you enjoy driving or working on cars?

  Both! It’s been an amazing journey learning the different parts of LV, HV & EM vehicles!

• What’s your dream car or travel destination?

  Dream travel destination is a tie between Greece and Bora Bora! 

• What’s one fun fact about yourself unrelated to work?

  I am on this amazing weight loss journey, so far with a loss of over 30kgs!

8. Your Vision for the Future:

• How do you see yourself contributing to the tire industry in 5 years?

  Hopefully still working onsite as a tyre fitter on EM trucks and mining vehicles! 

• What advice would you give to other women considering this field? 

  I would 100% recommend giving it a shot! It’s hard work but incredibly rewarding! The best decision I have made career wise already! 

9. Feedback and Support:

• What resources or support do you think would help you succeed in the tire industry?

  Having our strong community behind me, to be there on the hard days, great days and to share experience with others! 

• Is there anything specific you’d like to share or ask? Not at the moment!