Billings, MT – Montana State University Billings City College is expanding access to automotive education with a series of free workshops designed specifically for women, led by automotive instructor Katherine Pfau, known to students as Kat. The initiative, which began in early 2023, aims to address a gap in automotive knowledge and create a comfortable learning environment for women to gain confidence in vehicle maintenance, and repair.
The workshops cover essential skills such as checking oil and coolant levels, assessing brake condition, changing a tire, and measuring tire pressure. Pfau’s approach emphasizes hands-on learning and a safe space for participants to ask questions without feeling intimidated, according to a recent report from Simply Local Billings.
“Cars are a part of our everyday lives, and it is important to understand the basics of your vehicle,” Pfau stated in the Simply Local Billings article. “I want to provide a safe atmosphere where women can ask questions about their car and not perceive embarrassed. At the end of the class, my hope is that every participant will feel more empowered and more knowledgeable about their vehicles.”
The program is funded through a Nontraditional Occupations Perkins Grant from the Office of the Commissioner of Higher Education, targeting individuals in career fields traditionally dominated by one gender. A recent public workshop filled all available spots, demonstrating significant demand for this type of educational opportunity, as reported by Kulr8 News.
City College’s faculty and staff directory lists Kat Pfau as the instructor for Transportation and Welding-Metal Fabrication, with a direct phone line at 406-247-3044. The college, led by Dean Vern Gagnon, offers a range of programs including Computer Systems Technology, General Education, and Nursing, Health, and Public Safety. Stephanie Cowen serves as the Director of Student Services/Associate Registrar.
The next workshop is scheduled for April 29, running from 10 a.m. To 1 p.m. Interested participants can register by contacting Kat Pfau directly at City College at MSU Billings, according to a Facebook post from the City College at MSUB page.
