40 Under 40: Megan Sheppard

When Megan Sheppard first started at Northwest Auto Body, it was as the company’s customer service representative.

However, Northwest Auto Body offered her a path to a bright future, Sheppard said.

“I saw an opportunity to better myself through an organization that recognizes hard work and dedication,” she said. “I learned how to be an estimator while still being a customer service representative.”

It wasn’t long before it became clear that Sheppard had a knack for estimating, a path she followed for two years. When the manager position at Northwest Auto Body opened, she decided to apply.

She was 25.

Sheppard credits her education with helping shape who she is and what she has been able to accomplish.

“My education didn’t just teach me subject matter,” she said. “It taught me discipline, accountability and how to learn. In this industry, things are always evolving.”

That ability to adapt, ask questions and continue growing has been one of the biggest ways her education has shaped who she is as a leader today.

Working in the auto body industry taught her the value of hard work and accountability, Sheppard said.

“Being around skilled technicians who take pride in their craft shaped my respect for quality and attention to detail,” she said. “It pushed me to lead by example and hold high standards for myself and my team.”

Sheppard said she sees herself continuing to grow in whatever role allows her to add the most value as she moves forward.

“I want to be known as a strong leader who runs an efficient, profitable shop with a positive culture,” she said. “Whether that means expanding my current role or taking on broader responsibilities, my goal is long-term growth and impact.”

If she could give her younger self any advice, Sheppard said, it would be to have confidence in who she is.

“I would tell my younger self not to shrink herself to make others comfortable,” she said. “Working in a male‑dominated industry, I sometimes felt like I had to prove myself twice as much. I’d remind her that competence speaks louder than anything and to own her seat at the table.”