She also needed to realize that some stereotypes can work in her favor, if she lets them. Skills on the computer are not enough for a female technician - she needs a battle plan, for the interview and after. Let's return to the female mechanic, and learn a bit from women who have done it before. First, find something that competes effectively with people's preconceived notions about women. Money is a good one.
Risk management is another.
If you find a way to save them money and reduce their risk to boot, you're well on the way to acceptance. The female mechanic can, for example, advertise that she is offering a discount, a money-back guarantee, until she builds up a clientele. Loyalty is a quality that every employer values, and that gives you a big leg up on men, if you use it. Michele should take the stereotype head on, lay it on the table at the interview and give it a proper burial right before their eyes. I love pressure because it gives me a chance to really show my stuff.