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.
- Certifications
In this section, in addition to the Automotive Service Technician Certificate (310S), Truck and Coach Technician Certificate, Auto Body and Collision Damage Repair Certification, and Trailer Technician Certificate (310J), other certifications are in demand:
- The Red Seal program, which officially recognizes the skills of qualified tradespeople and allows them to work legally in any Canadian province or territory without having to retake provincial exams.
- WHMIS Certificates, a national program designed to ensure that all workers receive the critical information needed to safely handle hazardous chemicals in the workplace. This certification ensures compliance with safety procedures when repairing gasoline, diesel and electric engines.
- The ODP (Ozone Depletion Prevention) and Drive Clean (emissions) certifications.
- The Air Brake Endorsement, especially useful for heavy trucks, buses and other commercial vehicles.
- Technological tools
This category includes power tools (including welding equipment), but places particular emphasis on computer literacy, from basic GPS software to more advanced systems such as:
- Computer-aided design (CAD)
- Printed circuit board (PCB) assembly systems
- Microcontrollers and embedded systems
- Computerized maintenance management systems (CMMS)
- Warehouse management systems (WMS)
- Safety and compliance
Today’s auto repair shops apply strict standards to ensure the safety of both technicians and customers. This requires knowledge of the Occupational Health and Safety Act, which helps identify equipment-related risks and ensure proper technician training.
It also involves compliance with Canada’s National Safety Code for commercial vehicle repairs, along with holding WHMIS, ODP and Drive Clean certifications.
- Other valuable skills
This more general category includes knowledge of ISO 14000 environmental standards, ISO 9000 quality management standards, preventive maintenance, meticulous vehicle inspection and attention to detail.
Ultimately, acquiring targeted technical knowledge and developing soft skills can help mechanics and technicians stand out when applying for a job or vying for a promotion.
Explore the most in-demand skills for retail and wholesale automotive trades, or for specialized roles in the automotive sector!