OTTAWA, Ontario — The Automotive Industries Association of Canada (AIA) will launch a program aimed to educate the next generation of automotive technicians in Ontario.
The goal is to address two challenges facing Ontario's auto care industry, according to the AIA — "a shortage of automotive tradespeople and the need for automotive tradespeople to be up-skilled so that they can service modern cars, including electric vehicles (EV)."
The program is being funded through the Ontario government's Skills Development Fund.
Along with AIA and the government of Ontario, partners on this project include St. Lawrence College, Conestoga College, Fanshawe College and Plug 'N Drive.
"Getting working automotive tradespeople the skills that they need and getting more people into the automotive trades is essential," AIA Canada President Jean-François Champagne said. "Without, car owners across Ontario, particularly those in small and remote communities, will have less access to, and will pay more for, essential auto care."
The project will consist of the development and delivery of two training programs. The first is an EV, hybrid and Advanced Driver Assistance Systems Technologies (ADAS) training program. The module-based program will provide employers with free training in modern vehicle technologies that they can offer their workers. It is also open to high-level apprentices, the AIA said.
The second is an exploration of the automotive trades training program, which is open to job seekers for free. Upon completion, participants are well-positioned to find an employer sponsor to pursue an apprenticeship, the group said.
"Careers in the auto sector are meaningful, well-paying, and for many people, offer a path to a better life," said Monte McNaughton, minister of Labour, Immigration, Training and Skills Development. "Our government will continue to invest in innovative training programs that help people gain the skills they need to land life-changing jobs."