Yeah, I didn't marry my wife for her cooking or house keeping skills...
One of the coolest women I knew when I was younger was a total gear-head (and drop dead gorgeous). She and I were very good friends. I haven't seen her for years, but anyone can learn and she was more of a gear-head than most of the guys I knew... and most mechanics. Matter of fact, last i heard she was a certified mechanic working at a high end custom shop.
I wish you good luck with the brake pad installation quest.
All the best ... *HUGS*