The most in-demand skills for automotive mechanics and technicians

Posted on by Sophie Ginoux

What technical specialties, technologies and areas of knowledge can help mechanics and automotive technicians stand out professionally?

 

The automotive industry is evolving rapidly and facing several challenges, including labour shortages. To better align with the needs of the aftermarket—which includes maintenance and repair shops and represents approximately 100,000 jobs in Quebec in 2025 according to La Presse—AIA Canada conducted a labour market study in 2023 in collaboration with EY analysis.

Among the topics covered in this study were current and future skills that can make one mechanic or technician a more attractive hire than another.

The first takeaway: in this field, professionals now need to combine traditional repair skills with advanced digital competencies while complying with strict standards. That’s the main conclusion of the analysis, which organizes skills into four key areas. Continue reading “The most in-demand skills for automotive mechanics and technicians” →

Hiring a recruiter? Smart move!

Posted on by Sophie Ginoux

Finding qualified staff in the automotive industry is no easy task. But spending thousands of dollars on external recruitment isn’t exactly easy either. So why not call on the services of talent acquisition professionals?

For over 20 years, Auto-jobs.ca has been a pioneer. In 2004, this online platform was the first of its kind to directly connect workers and employers in the automotive sector. It then became the first to offer a complete suite of services, including job postings, web marketing, industry-specific content and professional recruitment. By partnering with Autosphere magazine, it also expanded its reach across Canada.

About a year ago, Auto-jobs.ca once again chose to innovate by expanding its recruitment packages (the first starts at under $500!), making them accessible to both small neighborhood garages and large dealerships. Continue reading “Hiring a recruiter? Smart move!” →

The Expectations of the New Generation of Automotive Workers

Posted on by Sophie Ginoux

he expectations of the employees in the auto care sector have changed significantly. How should companies meet them to ensure their future? A new episode of the Automotive Industries Association of Canada’s (AIA Canada) Curbside Chat vodcast explores this issue.

Photo provided by the AIA Canada

Each generation brings its share of changes. This is particularly true in the auto care sector, which has undergone profound transformations over the past 20 years, particularly since the pandemic. However, this redefinition of work, but also of recruitment and retention, can take many companies by surprise. Continue reading “The Expectations of the New Generation of Automotive Workers” →

Innovation in Automotive Training

Posted on by Sophie Ginoux

In a changing automotive industry, several free training programs related to new technologies are offered in four specialized colleges in Ontario. Check them out!

The type of work that automotive tradespeople do is being transformed. The development and expansion of electric vehicle sales have driven a need for new skills and expertise in automotive repair and maintenance. 

Automotive Industries Association (AIA) of Canada has joined forces with Conestoga College, Fanshawe College, St. Lawrence College and Plug N’ Drive to offer FREE training programs to develop new expertise and skills in the auto care industry:

  • The Career Exploration training program consists of a hands-on exploratory experience for automotive industry job seekers to learn to work on a variety of cars with special emphasis on EV and new technologies. Participants may be eligible for supports like work boots, basic tools, safety equipment, reference books, etc. as well as transportation assistance. This program consists of in-person theoretical and hands-on training led by College instructors for 2-3 days a week. 
  • The Electric Vehicle (EV) Up-skilling training program is an up-skilling course allowing current licensed automotive technicians and senior level apprentices to develop maintenance and repair skills relating to EVs. This program consists of in-person theoretical and hands-on training led by College instructors for 2-3 days a week. 
  • The Advanced driver assistance system (ADAS) training program is an up-skilling course allowing current licensed automotive technicians and senior level apprentices to master their understanding of ADAS as well as develop maintenance and repair skills relating to ADAS. This program consists of in-person theoretical and hands-on training led by College instructors for a total of 16 hours.

Who is eligible for the 3 training programs?

The three training programs are opened to people who are:

  • 18 years of age or older
  • Canadian citizens, Permanent residents or awaiting Permanent resident status
  • And residents of Ontario

For the Career Exploration training program especially, unemployed or underemployed persons interested in a career in automotive trades can register. For the other two programs, people must be currently employed in Ontario as a licensed automotive technician or senior level apprentice.

Those interested can complete a small form to submit their interest for the free training programs and to receive more information.