In a significant recognition of its groundbreaking work, Car Mechanical Services (CMS) has been announced as a finalist for the prestigious 2025 Automotive Services Award. Adding to the honour, co-owner Charlie Sgroi is also a finalist for the 2025 Business Person of the Year award.
The Canberra-based workshop is far from ordinary, positioning itself at the forefront of a movement to transform the automotive repair landscape. Raffy Sgroi, who runs the business with Charlie, articulated their mission: "Our purpose is to change the automotive landscape to be 'less black, more green, and infused with a great splash of pink.'"
A Workshop Where Everyone Belongs
The driving philosophy behind CMS is the belief that everyone deserves the opportunity to succeed. This commitment is deeply personal for the Sgroi family, as Charlie and Raffy are carers for Charlie's brother, Richardo, who has Down syndrome.
This lived experience has cemented their dedication to creating purpose and fulfilment for people with disability. "We always try to employ people with disability, and inclusion is one of our top priorities," Raffy stated.
This isn't just a sentiment; it's embedded in their operations through initiatives like the 12-week My Career Portfolio program, which is designed to help students with neurodiversity and disabilities build practical skills and confidence.
Driving Change: More Women Under the Hood
In a field traditionally dominated by men, CMS is actively shattering stereotypes about who belongs in a workshop. The company reports that an impressive 40 per cent of its trainees are now women.
The key to this success, according to Raffy, has been a focus on visibility. "When young girls see women doing these jobs, they start to believe they can do it too," she explained. By celebrating women who excel in technical roles, CMS is effectively breaking down outdated ideas and inspiring a new generation.
Putting People and the Planet First
Sustainability is another core pillar of the CMS ethos, an effort that has already been recognised with several awards. The workshop is dedicated to fostering a culture of environmental responsibility for future generations.
Understanding that eco-friendly operations often come with higher costs, CMS has made a conscious decision to lead by example. The company absorbs these additional expenses rather than passing them on to customers.
"Our commitment to sustainability is not only a moral imperative but also a strategic advantage that contributes to the long-term success of our business and the planet," Raffy affirmed, demonstrating a forward-thinking business model where ethics and strategy align.
With Charlie Sgroi's 45 years of industry experience guiding apprentices like Kari, and a clear, purpose-driven vision from its leaders, Car Mechanical Services is not just fixing cars—it's building a more inclusive, sustainable, and equitable future for the Australian automotive industry.
