More than 360 people, including 74 deserving students, attended the annual Gala of the Montreal Motorized Equipment Education Committee on June 3rd in the Montreal Old Port.
To renew and to develop itself is not something every organization can achieve. However, this is the case for the CETEMMM, which brings together eight automotive schools in Greater Montreal, as well as industry partners such as Auto-jobs. Indeed, the CETEMMM increases its visibility each year and its key role as an intermediary between schools and companies which hire new graduates in mechanics, bodywork, industrial painting or service.
For its 39th edition, the CETEMMM made a big impact by holding its Meritas Gala at the new Les Eaux Douces complex, along the Jacques-Cartier dock in the Old Port of Montreal. In this enchanting and sunny marina setting, more than 360 attendees were in good spirits for networking and celebration.
Diplomas and gifts for the Meritas students
Thanks to the participation of 27 sponsors, whose prizes (tool kits, carts, etc.) and scholarships totaled $70,000, the 74 meritas students from 8 training centers, including 11 women – another record – were extremely lucky in addition to receiving their diplomas of excellence.
During the ceremony, a special word was directly addressed to the young women who chose to embrace the automotive field : “We would like to make a special mention and congratulate the many deserving women who have chosen the motorized services industry to pursue their careers,” said Sylvie Mallette, the evening’s host, who has been the general director of Auto Prevention for over 11 years, and a member of the CETEMMM.
How did these graduates earn this honor ? To become a Meritas, they had to have and to develop a certain number of technical and personal skills, including academic performance, punctuality and attendance, analytical ability, manual dexterity, respect for health and safety, integrity, motivation and collaboration. All these skills are essential qualities in today’s industry.
“You can be proud of your achievements because you are already part of the elite”, said Ms. Mallette. The completion of your DEP or AEP marks the beginning of a career where significant changes are coming. Electric and autonomous vehicles are at our doors, and you will have exciting challenges to tackle.”
A success for all the industry
As the president of CETEMMM Yves Thibert, points out, “During the 17 years I have been involved in this organization, I have never seen so much communication and complicity between schools and professionals. People sincerely thanked us for opening the doors of schools, so that they can find their future talents there.”
In fact, a dozen booths of suppliers and potential employers were spread across the site of the event, offering the Meritas as many insights into possible careers. Discussions were also numerous among the evening’s guests during the opening cocktail, and after the ceremony in front of the festive food stations.
The CETEMMM Meritas Gala also awarded an honorary certificate to Johanne Dubé, who worked for 17 years at the Sectoral Workforce Committee (CSMO-AUTO) and was a pillar of CETEMMM for 15 years. “She leaves behind a precious legacy and a lasting mark in our field,” said Ms. Mallette, under the applause of the audience. Ms. Dubé now works for the Quebec Association for Work-Study Alternation (AQAET).
As we concluded our conversation with Mr. Thibert, he added before leaving us: “I would like to add that the active participation of media like Auto-jobs, which is part of our Board of Directors, highlights our initiatives and motivates students to embrace a career in the automotive field. So, thank you very much for your commitment to these young people and to our industry”.