DREAM BIG AND DREAMS CAN COME TRUE, especially when those dreams are coupled with determination and lots of hard work. — Dream big and dreams can come true, especially when those dreams are coupled with determination and lots of hard work.
It's the message of National Women's Month and it's the magic formula catapulting three women into dream careers, behind the scenes in a sport dominated by men.
Imagine being one of just three of anything in your desired field.
Some might consider it a deterrent, an obstacle, or even a white elephant in the room that needs confrontation on a daily basis.
However, not Amanda Lund, Danielle Shepherd, or Kate Gunlock.
They are the only women engineers in the Verison Indy Car Series.
And these ladies don't see that as a hindrance.
Amanda Lund says, "I just grew up with a love of racing. I knew from probably age 13 that I wanted to work in racing. Didn't necessarily know on the engineering side of it until about high school."
"In one day I can go from working on gearbox oils to timing stands to simulations to making my car work. All in one day. It's all in my control. And that's a lot of fun to me," says Danielle Shepherd.
All three work as race strategists doing their part to help their team get any advantage they possibly can.
At the end of the day, it's the work that's most important.
"I don't feel like I get treated any different because I'm a woman in the sport. It's just like I mean there aren't a lot of us but it's still, it's still just like a team. You're still just part of the team," says Kate Gunlock.
Amanda Lund says, "They give me crap a lot you know they pick on me and that's fine. I don't mind it. It's made me who I am. I've just grown a really thick skin from it. So, I love it. I wouldn't have it any other way."
Kate and Danielle feel the same way.
And the three have developed a bond over the past few years
They all understand they serve as an inspiration for other women looking to get into the sport
Kate Gunlock says, "It's a lot of hard work and if you want it and you're dedicated to it and you put the time and the effort in you can definitely get here. Like you know, reach out to people. Talk to people. Find somebody. Come to races."
"Do your job. Do it well. And know your stuff and sure, you can have any opportunity you want," says Danielle Shepherd.
All three ladies stress that same ideal, if you have a passion, go for it.
But when you do, be willing to work hard to achieve your goal.
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