Her Story
About Leila
Leila Ackerman is an automotive restoration professional and operations leader based in Novi, Michigan. With approximately five years of experience in the automotive restoration industry, she plays an integral role in the continued growth and success of Wrenchers LLC, the family-owned business her father acquired in 2021. As Human Resources and Operations Manager, she oversees employee relations, business operations, bookkeeping, invoicing, payroll processes, and customer experience, ensuring projects are completed efficiently while maintaining the company's reputation for exceptional craftsmanship. Certified in bookkeeping, Ackerman combines strong financial acumen with operational leadership and is currently pursuing a Bachelor of Science in Marketing at Wayne State University, with plans to graduate in December.
Growing up surrounded by classic cars, Ackerman developed a lifelong passion for automotive restoration and the stories each vehicle represents. While she enjoys the operational and leadership side of the business, she is equally inspired by the opportunity to preserve automotive history and help customers bring treasured family heirlooms and iconic vehicles back to life. She has contributed to numerous restoration projects, including helping lead the coordination and delivery of a meticulously restored 1968 Chevrolet Camaro showcased at Detroit Autorama. Beyond her professional responsibilities, Ackerman has demonstrated outstanding leadership through her involvement at Wayne State University, serving as President and Treasurer of the Figure Skating Club, Vice President of Finance for Kappa Delta Sorority, and Treasurer of the Japanese Student Association.
Ackerman attributes her success to the unwavering support of her family, particularly her father and sister, whose encouragement and mentorship have shaped both her personal and professional journey. She believes the best career advice is to value those who believe in you and never take their support for granted. She encourages young women entering the automotive industry to take the first step with confidence, advocate for themselves, and let their work speak for itself especially in traditionally male-dominated environments. Guided by a passion for leadership, integrity, continuous learning, and preserving the legacy behind every classic automobile, Ackerman is committed to driving operational excellence while helping ensure each restoration tells a story that will be appreciated for generations.
Her Interview
Ten minutes with Leila
01What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to the unwavering support and influence of my family, especially my father. When my father acquired the business in 2021, it deepened my appreciation for the industry and reinforced the passion that began from growing up around classic cars with him. His guidance, along with my family's constant encouragement, has shaped my work ethic, strengthened my commitment to excellence, and inspired me to continue building on our shared legacy.
02What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
The best career advice I've ever received is to value the people who believe in you and never take their support for granted. I'm incredibly grateful for the encouragement and guidance I've received from my family, especially my father, who have played a significant role in both my personal and professional growth. Their confidence in me has helped shape the leader I'm becoming and has inspired me to approach every opportunity with dedication, humility, and a commitment to continuous learning.
03What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
My advice to young women entering this industry is to take that first step with confidence and don't let fear hold you back. Believe in your abilities, advocate for yourself, and don't be afraid to make your voice heard—especially in a traditionally male-dominated field. Show your dedication through your work, continue learning, and let others see that you are committed to doing your very best. Confidence, perseverance, and authenticity will help you earn respect and create opportunities for growth.
04What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
One of the biggest challenges in my field is overcoming the assumptions that can come with working in a male-dominated industry, where age and gender may sometimes cause others to underestimate your knowledge or expertise. While those perceptions can be difficult to navigate, they also create an opportunity to demonstrate your skills, build credibility, and inspire greater diversity within the industry. I've learned that confidence, resilience, and the willingness to advocate for yourself are essential to earning respect and driving meaningful change.
05What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
The values that matter most to me in both my work and personal life are passion, leadership, integrity, and preserving history. My love for classic cars and restoration began by growing up alongside my father, and that passion continues to inspire the work I do today. I enjoy the operational and leadership aspects of the business just as much as the restoration process itself, knowing that every vehicle has a unique story worth preserving. My leadership experiences through my sorority and other organizations have also taught me the importance of collaboration, accountability, and leading with purpose values that guide me in every aspect of my career and life.
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