When Amanda landed her first job in the heavy-duty aftermarket, she was thrilled. As a marketing coordinator for a parts supplier, she saw a world of opportunity, trade shows, high-profile events and partnerships with industry leaders. She was ready to make an impact in a fast-moving, dynamic field.
Within months, the excitement began to fade. It started subtly with offhand comments about her appearance in meetings, inappropriate jokes at networking events, and a senior executive standing a little too close during a client dinner. These are all forms of harassment—any unwanted behavior that makes someone feel uncomfortable, scared, or humiliated. When she pushed back, she was quickly labeled as difficult and excluded from key projects.
Amanda’s story isn’t unique. Across marketing, sales, event planning and leadership roles, women are encountering the same toxic undercurrent. While the aftermarket industry says it wants more women in these roles, sexual harassment will continue to push them away.
The Hidden Cost of Harassment
Sexual harassment is more than inappropriate behavior. It’s about power, control and exclusion. It tells women, “You don’t belong here unless you play by our rules.” The consequences are devastating, not just for the women who experience it but for our entire industry.
Women in marketing and sales are often the face of their businesses at major events, trade shows and customer engagements. They are responsible for shaping brands, building relationships and driving revenue. When they are subjected to harassment — whether from colleagues, customers or industry partners — it creates an environment of fear, stress and burnout. Many simply exit the industry, not because they lack talent, but because they refuse to endure an unsafe or hostile workplace, and the aftermarket suffers for it.
Companies lose top-tier talent, face reputational damage and struggle to attract the next generation of women. A workplace that tolerates harassment isn’t just unethical, it’s unprofitable.
The Culture We Have vs. The Culture We Need
Imagine an industry where every woman, in any role, is valued for her expertise and not objectified nor dismissed. Where attending a networking event doesn’t mean navigating unwanted advances. Where talent and results — not gender — define success.
It starts at the top with leadership setting a zero-tolerance standard. Established that reporting harassment doesn’t end careers but ends toxic behaviors. It’s about male colleagues stepping up, calling out inappropriate behavior, and ensuring women don’t have to fight this battle alone. It’s about creating a culture where respect is non-negotiable.
This is a choice every individual and organization must make.
The Time for Change is Now
Amanda left the aftermarket, but the next generation shouldn’t have to. If we are serious about bringing more women into our industry, we must prove they are not only welcome but safe, valued and respected.
While Amanda isn’t her real name, her experiences are real. As are mine. Along with the stories of many other women who have shared with me. I write this not only to raise awareness about this issue but also to encourage change. It is essential we shed light on these experiences and work together to create a better, more supportive future for all women.
