Woman Crush Wednesday: Tonnika Haynes

Welcome to Woman Crush Wednesday!

This week, join 97.9 The Hill’s Ali Evans for a conversation with Tonnika Haynes — owner of Brown’s Automotive in Chapel Hill — a family-owned local business that’s been part of our community since 1980.

Brown’s Automotive was founded in 1980 by Tonnika’s father, William Brown. Tonnika started out as a kid answering the phones and helping her father during summer breaks. In 2001, she took over as shop manager and in 2016, after the retirement of her father, became the shop owner. She also holds an ASE Service Consultant Certification and has a bachelor’s degree in Business Administration from The University of North Carolina at Greensboro.

“I’ve always worked in a male dominated industry,” said Haynes, “But what I would tell any woman is to network. Latch onto a strong male figure or strong female figure in the industry, and learn as much as you can … You would be surprised how many people are rooting for women to come in these industries. I also would say once you get there, encourage others to come along with you.”

You can listen below for the full conversation between Ali and Tonnika below — and check back next Wednesday for another introduction to some of the most amazing women in our community!

Join 97.9 The Hill’s Ali Evans every Wednesday for another edition of “Woman Crush Wednesday,” a three-minute weekly recurring segment made possible by Mosaic Comprehensive Care that highlights motivated women and their impact both in our community and beyond. If you’d like to nominate someone to be featured on WCW, email ali@wchl.com