Conversations with Theresa Gilpatrick

Today we’d like to introduce you to Theresa Gilpatrick. 

Hi Theresa, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
I’ve spent my career in the collector car and motorsports industries, with a brief stop in IT. I have always been fascinated by cars, automotive design, and the history of the automobile. I collected Hot Wheels and Matchbox cars when I was little and cars have been an integral part of my personal and professional world ever since. 

We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
Not always — like everyone’s journey, there have been some detours and potholes along the way (sorry, couldn’t resist) but tough stuff makes you stronger. Divorce, single parenting, and job changes have all been tests, as was the loss of my parents, who passed three weeks apart and whose health challenges presented some severe logistics and emotional challenges for my sister and me. Being female in a predominantly masculine sector has had its challenges, but that is, gratefully, changing. 

As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
I have spent the majority of my career in Human Resources, whether I was literally ‘the’ HR at the tech firm or serving an international membership as Executive Director of the Ferrari Club of America, working with a vast network of volunteers and contractors to keep an organization running. I’m currently using that experience in my role at Skip Barber Racing School where I’m charged with developing a membership program and creation of a community from the ground up. I also develop Brand Partnerships and Corporate Events, so I get to work with people who are telling their story and elevating their skills in a high-energy, adrenalin-charged environment that challenges skills and grows confidence all at the same time– and behind the wheel of some amazing automobiles with the best in the business to show them how. It’s interesting to have all the sectors of my career experience come together, and great fun. I’m most proud of the systems innovations achieved while I was with the Ferrari Club and with the opportunities and connections, I’ve created for women in the motorsports space. It makes me really happy to make those connections and introductions if it can help someone. 

Are there any important lessons you’ve learned that you can share with us?
Setbacks are put in our path to teach us something– something good always comes of a struggle, so just keep pushing forward and things will get better! 

Contact Info:

• Email: Theresa.Gilpatrick@SkipBarber.com
• Website: SkipBarber.com
• Instagram: @skipbarberracing
• Facebook: Skip Barber Racing School
• Twitter: @SkipBarberRS
• Youtube: Skip Barber Racing School