Information package
Select your college:
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 of Canada has joined forces with Cambrian College, Conestoga College, Fanshawe College, Mohawk College and Plug N’ Drive to offer FREE training programs to develop new expertise and skills in the auto care industry.
Cambrian College
Career Exploration training
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 ICE (internal combustion engines) vehicles and new technologies. Participants may be eligible for supports like work boots, basic tools, safety equipment, reference books, etc. as well as transportation assistance.
Your instructors
Zack Okrainec
Zackary Okrainec is a Red Seal Certified Automotive Service Technician with over seven years of hands-on experience in automotive repair, diagnostics, and custom fabrication. His background spans a wide range of work—from full-service vehicle maintenance to high-performance upgrades and custom builds—giving him a comprehensive understanding of both modern and classic automotive systems.
Throughout his career, Zackary has taken on leadership roles within the shop, where he has trained apprentices and mentored co-op students. He takes pride in creating a positive learning environment and finds great fulfillment in helping others gain the confidence and skills needed to succeed in the trade. His approachable teaching style and strong communication skills have made him a go-to resource for new technicians entering the industry.
Zackary is also committed to continuous learning. He graduated with honours in all three levels of the Automotive Service Technician program and actively seeks out opportunities to expand his knowledge and stay current with evolving technology in the automotive sector.
Looking ahead, Zackary is focused on transitioning into education, where he hopes to inspire and equip the next generation of automotive professionals. With a deep respect for the trades and a passion for giving back, he is dedicated to strengthening the future of Canada’s aftermarket and service industry through mentorship, training, and hands-on leadership.
Sarbjeet Singh
Sarbjeet is a Red Seal–certified Automotive Service Technician with 9 years of hands-on experience in the automotive industry. Throughout his career, Sarbjeet has built a strong reputation for technical expertise, reliability, and attention to detail across a wide range of vehicle systems.
His experience includes diagnostics, repair, and maintenance of engines, transmissions, braking systems, suspension, electrical systems, and preventative maintenance. He is skilled in using modern diagnostic tools and stay up to date with evolving automotive technologies to ensure accurate and efficient service.
Currently, Sarbjeet serves as a Manager at Mr. Lube in Sudbury, where he not only oversees daily operations but also train and mentor staff, ensuring that his team delivers top-quality service and develop their technical skills. Known for his leadership, technical expertise, and commitment to customer satisfaction, Sarbjeet plays a key role in maintaining high standards and fostering a culture of professionalism and growth.
Training details
Schedule
Consult the course calendar for the :
- Winter 2026. Courses start as early as January 8, 2026.
This program consists of 2 days a week for nine consecutive weeks of in-person theoretical and hands-on training led by a college instructor.
Stay tuned for our upcoming course schedule: visit us again for more updates!
Location
Cambrian College, Sudbury Campus
1400 Barry Downe Road
Sudbury, Ontario
P3A 3V8
How to apply to Career Exploration training
Complete and submit the Innovation in Automotive Training participant application form to apply for the training at Cambrian College.
Questions?
Contact your training consultant.
Electric Vehicle Up-skilling training
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.
Your instructors
Zack Okrainec
Zackary Okrainec is a Red Seal Certified Automotive Service Technician with over seven years of hands-on experience in automotive repair, diagnostics, and custom fabrication. His background spans a wide range of work—from full-service vehicle maintenance to high-performance upgrades and custom builds—giving him a comprehensive understanding of both modern and classic automotive systems.
Throughout his career, Zackary has taken on leadership roles within the shop, where he has trained apprentices and mentored co-op students. He takes pride in creating a positive learning environment and finds great fulfillment in helping others gain the confidence and skills needed to succeed in the trade. His approachable teaching style and strong communication skills have made him a go-to resource for new technicians entering the industry.
Zackary is also committed to continuous learning. He graduated with honours in all three levels of the Automotive Service Technician program and actively seeks out opportunities to expand his knowledge and stay current with evolving technology in the automotive sector.
Looking ahead, Zackary is focused on transitioning into education, where he hopes to inspire and equip the next generation of automotive professionals. With a deep respect for the trades and a passion for giving back, he is dedicated to strengthening the future of Canada’s aftermarket and service industry through mentorship, training, and hands-on leadership.
Ian Clipperton
Ian Clipperton is a licensed 310S Red Seal Automotive Service Technician and Field Service Technician. He brings strong hands-on experience in diagnostics, repair, and maintenance across light-duty, heavy-duty, and battery electric vehicles, with a clear focus on safety, quality, and continuous improvement.
Ian is known for his mechanical aptitude, attention to detail, and ability to clearly communicate technical information to both technical and non-technical audiences.
Throughout his career, Ian has worked in dealership and field service environments, developing expertise in electrical diagnostics, engine and transmission tear-downs and replacements, and complex troubleshooting. He is proficient with modern diagnostic tools and service software and has contributed to technician training and documentation.
Approachable, organized, and quick to learn, Ian brings strong interpersonal skills and a proactive mindset. He has demonstrated leadership through safety-focused responsibilities, mentoring, and collaborative work with cross-functional teams. Driven by a genuine passion for learning and craftsmanship, Ian consistently delivers reliable, high-quality work in demanding environments.
Training details
Schedule
Consult the course calendar for the :
- Winter 2026. Courses start as early as January 10, 2026.
This program consists of 8-hour modules (8 modules available) of in-person theoretical and hands-on training led by a college instructor tailored to individual needs and interests.
Conduct one module over the course of two consecutive Monday evenings or in one Saturday (9:00 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.).
Stay tuned for our upcoming course schedule: visit us again for more updates!
Location
Cambrian College, Sudbury Campus
1400 Barry Downe Road
Sudbury, Ontario
P3A 3V8
How to apply to EV Up-skilling training
Complete and submit the Innovation in Automotive Training participant application form to apply for the training at Cambrian College.
Questions?
Contact your training consultant.
Advanced driver assistance system (ADAS) training
The Advanced driver assistance system (ADAS) training program is an up-skilling course allowing current licensed automotive technicians and senior level apprentices to understand ADAS as well as develop maintenance and repair skills relating to ADAS.
Your instructor
To be announced
Training details
Schedule
Consult the course calendar for the :
- Fall 2025. Courses start as early as October 21, 2025.
This program consists of 12 hours of in-person theoretical and hands-on training led by a college instructor.
Stay tuned for our upcoming course schedule: Winter 2026—visit us again for more updates!
Location
Cambrian College, Sudbury Campus
1400 Barry Downe Road
Sudbury, Ontario
P3A 3V8
How to apply to ADAS training
Complete and submit the Innovation in Automotive Training participant application form to apply for the training at Cambrian College.
Questions?
Contact your training consultant.
Your training consultant
Contact your training consultant to pose your questions and inquiries concerning the training program best suited for your needs or for additional information on the trainings offered at Cambrian College.
Bryan Paul
Program Coordinator
Innovation in Automotive Training
Email: bryan.paul@aiacanada.com
Cellphone: +1 (705) 280-8479
Conestoga College
Career Exploration training
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 ICE (internal combustion engines) vehicles and new technologies. Participants may be eligible for supports like work boots, basic tools, safety equipment, reference books, etc. as well as transportation assistance.
Your instructor
Martin Hengeveld
Martin Hengeveld enjoys teaching automotive theory in the classroom just as much as the hands-on practical application in the shop. Martin gained a wealth of experience working as a Certified Toyota Pro Technician before joining Conestoga’s automotive trade program. In addition to his avid interest in cars, Martin also has a keen interest in business and finance. Prior to becoming an RSE automotive technician, Martin worked for many years as a CPA providing financial and tax advice to owner-managed businesses.
Martin’s unique background allows him to teach both automotive and business theory to students in the trades. He enjoys helping students see how sound financial management strategies can help them with both their personal finances, as well as in their careers, by supporting their employer’s profitability or starting their own future business in the automotive industry.
In his spare time, Martin also enjoys fixing motorcycles and is an avid woodworker who enjoys making custom wood and metal fusion furniture.
Training details
Consult the course calendar for the :
- Fall 2025. Courses start as early as October 20, 2025.
This program consists of 2-3 days a week for seven consecutive weeks of in-person theoretical and hands-on training led by a college instructor.
Location
Conestoga College, Brantford Campus
175 Aviation Ave
Brantford, Ontario
N3T 0L4
How to apply to Career Exploration training
Complete and submit the Innovation in Automotive Training participant application form to apply for the training at Conestoga College.
Questions?
Contact your training consultant.
Electric Vehicle Up-skilling training
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.
Your instructor
Corey Hussey
Corey Hussey’s career spans 32 years, where he has been a Pro Technician at Simcoe Toyota, Master Technician at Woodstock Toyota, and now, a Master Technician at Brantford Toyota. Through this time, he has received electric vehicle and hybrid certification as a way to better service consumers. In addition, Corey is a worker representative on the Joint Health and Safety Committee and has been a mentor to co-op students and apprentices to ensure professional grade work is completed.
Corey has also recently taught a portion of the Motive Power course at the college and is entering his third year of teaching the A.I.A. program. His motto is: “Knowledge is meant to be shared.” He truly enjoys sharing the knowledge he has acquired over all the years of working in the industry.
Deeply passionate about teaching and the automotive industry, Corey Hussey looks forward to teaching students through connection, collaboration, and tech-savvy course materials to keep engagement high.
Paul Hoffer
Paul Hoffer aims to encourage and support up-and-coming electric vehicle (EV) technicians through his impressive experience as an automotive technician and unwavering drive to teach.
Paul Hoffer started his career as an automotive apprentice at Gord Anderson Buick and soon worked his way up to being a licensed automotive technician. For over twenty years, Paul has been a licensed automotive technician at Heffner Lexus in Kitchener and a part-time instructor at Conestoga College for the past several years.
In his spare time, Paul is a member of the Woodstock Ontario Flying Club. He holds various licenses and certifications, including his private pilot’s license and Red Seal Certification. Paul hopes to pass on his passion for learning to the students at Conestoga College’s EV Up-skilling training.
Training details
Schedule
Consult the course calendar for the :
- Winter 2026. Courses start as early as January 10, 2026
This program consists of 8-hour modules (8 modules available) of in-person theoretical and hands-on training led by a college instructor tailored to individual needs and interests.
Conduct one module over the course of two consecutive Thursday evenings or in one Saturday (8:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.).
Stay tuned for our upcoming course schedule: visit us again for more updates!
Location
Conestoga College, Guelph Campus
460 Speedvale Ave W
Guelph, Ontario
N1E 1P1
How to apply to EV Up-skilling training
Complete and submit the Innovation in Automotive Training participant application form to apply for the training at Conestoga College.
Questions?
Contact your training consultant.
Advanced driver assistance system (ADAS) training
The Advanced driver assistance system (ADAS) training program is an up-skilling course allowing current licensed automotive technicians and senior level apprentices to understand ADAS as well as develop maintenance and repair skills relating to ADAS.
Your instructor
Jamie Holmes
Training details
Schedule
- Fall 2025. Courses start as early as October 25, 2025.
- Winter 2026. Courses start as early as January 22, 2026.
This program consists of 12 hours of in-person theoretical and hands-on training led by a college instructor.
Stay tuned for our upcoming course schedule: visit us again for more updates!
Location
Conestoga College, Guelph Campus
460 Speedvale Ave W
Guelph, Ontario
N1E 1P1
How to apply to ADAS training
Complete and submit the Innovation in Automotive Training participant application form to apply for the training at Conestoga College.
Questions?
Contact your training consultant.
Your training consultant
Contact your training consultant to pose your questions and inquiries concerning the training program best suited for your needs or for additional information on the trainings offered at Conestoga College.
Bronwyn Lee
Senior Project Coordinator
Innovation in Automotive Training
Email: bronwyn.lee@aiacanada.com
Cellphone: +1 (519) 830-7591
Fanshawe College
Career Exploration training
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 ICE (internal combustion engines) vehicles and new technologies. Participants may be eligible for supports like work boots, basic tools, safety equipment, reference books, etc. as well as transportation assistance.
Training details
Schedule
Consult the course calendar for the :
- Winter 2026. Courses start as early as January 15, 2026.
This program consists of 2-3 days a week for seven consecutive weeks of in-person theoretical and hands-on training led by a college instructor.
Stay tuned for our upcoming course schedule: visit us again for more updates!
Location
Fanshawe, London Campus
1001 Fanshawe College Blvd
London, Ontario
N5Y 5R6
Your instructor
Mariusz Wojciechowski
Mariusz graduated from Fanshawe College in 1995, with his Red Seal certification, and continues to work in the automotive industry for just over 30 years. After 16 years of working at automotive dealerships and progressing to head technician, Mariusz decided to open his own automotive shop in 2008. He continues to run his business wearing many hats. He is the service advisor, service manager, parts person, building operations manager, as well as the red seal technician.
Additionally, throughout his career, Mariusz shares his industry experience to others and has trained many from:
- High school and co-op students
- Apprentices
- Service advisors
- Office managers and general staff members
While Mariusz continues to run his automotive shop, he is also an instructor at Fanshawe College where he continues to spread his knowledge and experience to individuals looking at a future in the automotive industry.
How to apply to Career Exploration training
Complete and submit the Innovation in Automotive Training participant application form to apply for the training at Fanshawe College.
Questions?
Contact your training consultant.
Electric Vehicle Up-skilling training
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.
Training details
Schedule
Consult the course calendar for the :
- Winter 2026. Courses start as early as January 10, 2026.
This program consists of 8-hour modules (8 modules available) of in-person theoretical and hands-on training led by a college instructor tailored to individual needs and interests.
Stay tuned for our upcoming course schedule: visit us again for more updates!
Location
Fanshawe, London Campus
1001 Fanshawe College Blvd
London, Ontario
N5Y 5R6
Your instructor
Jim Dobbs
With over four decades of hands-on experience in the automotive industry, Jim has been a licensed 310S Automotive Service Technician since 1983 and added 310T Truck and Coach Technician certification in 1998. Since 2021, Jim has had the opportunity to share his wealth of industry knowledge and passion for vehicle systems, as a part-time instructor at Fanshawe College in London.
Throughout Jim’s career, he has worked with a wide range of vehicles powered by gasoline, propane, diesel, and electric drivetrains. Jim’s personal and professional philosophy has always been to fully understand how every vehicle he drives or repairs operates, and to evaluate the strengths and challenges of each fuel system. He also brings this analytical, systems-based approach to his teaching, by helping students develop not just technical skills but also critical thinking about vehicle technology and performance.
How to apply to EV Up-skilling training
Complete and submit the Innovation in Automotive Training participant application form to apply for the training at Fanshawe College.
Questions?
Contact your training consultant.
Advanced driver assistance system (ADAS) training
The Advanced driver assistance system (ADAS) training program is an up-skilling course allowing current licensed automotive technicians and senior level apprentices to understand ADAS as well as develop maintenance and repair skills relating to ADAS.
Training details
Schedule
Consult the course calendar for the :
Stay tuned for our upcoming course schedules: Winter 2026—visit us again for more updates!
Location
Fanshawe, London Campus
1001 Fanshawe College Blvd
London, Ontario
N5Y 5R6
Your instructor
Jim Dobbs
With over four decades of hands-on experience in the automotive industry, Jim has been a licensed 310S Automotive Service Technician since 1983 and added 310T Truck and Coach Technician certification in 1998. Since 2021, Jim has had the opportunity to share his wealth of industry knowledge and passion for vehicle systems, as a part-time instructor at Fanshawe College in London.
Throughout Jim’s career, he has worked with a wide range of vehicles powered by gasoline, propane, diesel, and electric drivetrains. Jim’s personal and professional philosophy has always been to fully understand how every vehicle he drives or repairs operates, and to evaluate the strengths and challenges of each fuel system. He also brings this analytical, systems-based approach to his teaching, by helping students develop not just technical skills but also critical thinking about vehicle technology and performance.
How to apply to ADAS training
Complete and submit the Innovation in Automotive Training participant application form to apply for the training at Fanshawe College.
Questions?
Contact your training consultant.
Your training consultant
Contact your training consultant to pose your questions and inquiries concerning the training program best suited for your needs or for additional information on the trainings offered at Fanshawe College.
Susan Ramroop
Senior Project Coordinator
Innovation in Automotive Training
Email: susan.ramroop@aiacanada.com
Cellphone: +1 (226) 228-2847
Mohawk College
Career Exploration training
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 ICE (internal combustion engines) vehicles and new technologies. Participants may be eligible for supports like work boots, basic tools, safety equipment, reference books, etc. as well as transportation assistance.
Your instructor
Jason Russell
Bio to come.
Training details
Schedule
Consult the
- Winter 2026. Courses begin as early as January 20, 2026.
This program consists of 3 days a week for seven consecutive weeks of in-person theoretical and hands-on training led by a college instructor.
Stay tuned for our upcoming course schedule: visit us again for more updates!
Location
Mohawk College, Fennell Campus
135 Fennell Ave West
Hamilton, ON
L9C 0E5
How to apply to Career Exploration training
Complete and submit the Innovation in Automotive Training participant application form to apply for the training at Mohawk College.
Questions?
Contact your training consultant.
Electric Vehicle Up-skilling training
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.
Your instructor
Chris Pinard
With over 20 years of experience as a licensed technician, Chris Pinard has established himself as a leader in the automotive field, particularly in electric vehicle (EV) technology. As a professor and program coordinator at Mohawk College, Chris combines his extensive hands-on experience with a passion for education, guiding the next generation of automotive professionals.
Chris’s journey began with a deep-rooted fascination for vehicles and technology, leading him to obtain his technician license and specialize in Ford vehicles. Over the years, he honed his skills in diagnostics, repair, and maintenance, earning a reputation for excellence in the industry.
At Mohawk College, Chris is dedicated to advancing automotive education, particularly in the rapidly evolving field of electric vehicles. As an EV specialist, he develops and coordinates programs that equip students with the knowledge and skills necessary to excel in this dynamic sector. His commitment to sustainability and innovation not only prepares students for successful careers but also contributes to the broader transition toward greener transportation solutions.
In addition to his teaching and program coordination, Chris actively engages with industry partners, ensuring that Mohawk College’s curriculum remains relevant and aligned with current trends. His contributions have made a significant impact on both the academic community and the automotive industry.
With a blend of technical expertise, teaching acumen, and a forward-thinking approach to electric vehicle technology, Chris Pinard is shaping the future of automotive education at Mohawk College.
John Regeling
John Regeling began his automotive career in 1981 as a MAP 40 apprenticeship student at Centennial College. He completed his apprenticeship at a Ford dealership and became a licensed 310S and 310T technician in 1985. With over 40 years in the automotive industry, John has worked on all vehicle brands, with a particular focus on Ford and Nissan.
Since 2013, John has developed a strong passion for working with electric vehicles, embracing the future of the industry. In 2016, he expanded his career into education, becoming a part-time college instructor. John finds it deeply rewarding to share his extensive knowledge and experience with students. He believes in the power of continuous learning, where both instructor and student learn from each other every day. John is enthusiastic about the evolution of the automotive sector and remains excited about the innovations shaping its future.
Training details
Schedule
Consult the course calendar for the :
- Winter 2026. Courses begin as early as January 21, 2026.
This program consists of 8-hour modules (8 modules available) of in-person theoretical and hands-on training led by a college instructor tailored to individual needs and interests.
Conduct one module over the course of a Friday or Saturday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Stay tuned for our upcoming course schedule: visit us again for more updates!
Location
Mohawk College, Stoney Creek Campus
493 Barton Street
Stoney Creek, Ontario
L8E 4K1
How to apply to EV Up-skilling training
Complete and submit the Innovation in Automotive Training participant application form to apply for the training at Mohawk College.
Questions?
Contact your training consultant.
Advanced driver assistance system (ADAS) training
The Advanced driver assistance system (ADAS) training program is an up-skilling course allowing current licensed automotive technicians and senior level apprentices to understand ADAS as well as develop maintenance and repair skills relating to ADAS.
Your instructor
Jason Russell
Bio to come.
Training details
Schedule
Consult the course calendar for the :
This program consists of 12 hours of in-person theoretical and hands-on training led by a college instructor.
Stay tuned for our upcoming course schedule: Winter 2026—visit us again for more updates!
Location
Mohawk College, Stoney Creek Campus
493 Barton Street
Stoney Creek, Ontario
L8E 4K1
How to apply to ADAS training
Complete and submit the Innovation in Automotive Training participant application form to apply for the training at Mohawk College.
Questions?
Contact your training consultant.
Your training consultant
Contact your training consultant to pose your questions and inquiries concerning the training program best suited for your needs or for additional information on the trainings offered at Mohawk College.
Jason Wu
Program Coordinator
Innovation in Automotive Training
Email: jason.wu@aiacanada.com
Cellphone: +1 (613) 790-4804
Mentoring Excellence
The Mentoring Excellence training program is a live virtual training aimed at shop owners, managers and journey people who work in Ontario’s mechanical automotive sector. The webinars will equip participants with the skills to effectively train and mentor their apprentices. It will highlight ways to support the transition of young people into the workplace and passing on skills and experience.
The sessions will also provide insight into the development of effective mentoring practices and provide several elements, including guidance, practical understanding, and best practices that foster diversity, equity and inclusin.
Your instructors
Hear from a variety of industry professionals and subject matter experts; including Skilled Trades Ontario, Apprenticesearch, AutoCate and more!
Training details
Schedule
Consult the course calendar for the :
- Session #1 – Navigating Apprentice Sponsorship: January 20th from 12 p.m. to 2 p.m. or February 3rd from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m.
- Session #2 – Mentoring & Talent Retention: January 22nd from 6p.m. to 8 p.m. or February 5th from 12 p.m. to 2 p.m.
This program consists of two 2-hour sessions (total 4 hours) of virtual training led by industry experts.
Stay tuned for our upcoming course schedules: visit us again for more updates!
Location
Virtual – a link to the training will be provided to you by email once your registration is complete.
How to apply to Mentoring Excellence training
Complete and submit the Innovation in Automotive Training participant application form.
January training – Session #1 and Session #2
February training – Registration links to come
Questions?
Contact your training consultant.
Your training consultant
Contact your training consultant to pose your questions and inquiries concerning the training program best suited for your needs or for additional information on the trainings offered for the Mentoring Excellence training.
Email: sdf@aiacanada.com
