An Australian woman has shared the benefits of her well-paid job, which she can do whenever she wants, wherever she wants, across the country. Gold Coast woman Pamela Sanchez works the hours she chooses in a high-demand role across Australia.
The mum said she became a driving instructor five years ago, wanting a role with more flexibility so she could spend more time with her kids.
“It’s been really enjoyable,” she told Yahoo News, adding it’s “incredibly rewarding” seeing learners pass their tests and go on to enjoy the freedom a driver’s licence can offer.
Pamela spends her days teaching learner drivers across the northern part of the Gold Coast. Her students are “really diverse” and range in age from 16 to 89.
She’s just one of a dwindling number of female driving instructors across the country. Research conducted by EZ Licence revealed women make up just 23 per cent of the 6,000 instructors across the country.
“The feedback I get constantly is that there are not a lot of us around,” she said.
She thinks the industry is more male-dominated, with women preferring more “professional” roles.
“I am heavily booked most days,” she said.
Pamela says she’s capable of restricting both the hours she works, and the locations she operates in, charging students $90 an hour for her expertise.
Many of Pamela’s clients say it’s rare to see a female driving instructor. Source: Supplied
However, she says, it’s a great job for those looking for flexibility.
“It’s wonderful for women who might be returning to the workforce, because it offers so much flexibility. From a woman’s perspective, it’s an ideal role.
She admits that anyone who becomes an instructor requires a “calm disposition”.
“If you are an anxious driver or you find you get nervous in heavy traffic conditions, you’re going to pass that feeling on to someone new and learning,” she said.
“You don’t need to be the best driver in the world, but very patient and very calm. It’s a critical thing that you remain calm when things are not ideal.”
Driving school hopes to ‘close the gap’ in driving instructors
According to national driving school EZ Licence’s Ross Rivalland, female driving instructors are in “short supply” across the country and in high demand among learners who prefer to train with a woman.
“Closing this gap could give learners more choice and help them feel confident with the instructor they pick,” he said.
“At the same time, this shortage creates a fantastic opportunity for women seeking a flexible and fulfilling career.
“If you’re exploring a career change or want to make a real impact, EzLicence can guide you on how to become a driving instructor and get started on this rewarding path.”
Do you have a story tip? Email: newsroomau@yahoonews.com.
You can also follow us on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, Twitter and YouTube.
