Innovation in Automotive Training

Information package

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 instructor

To be announced

Training details

Schedule

This program consists of 3 days a week for five consecutive weeks of in-person theoretical and hands-on training led by a college instructor.

Stay tuned for our upcoming course schedules: Fall 2025, and 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 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 instructor

To be announced

Training details

Schedule

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 schedules: Fall 2025, and 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 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

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 schedules: Fall 2025, and 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

Innovation in Automotive Training

Email: bryan.paul@aiacanada.com 

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

Schedule 
 

Consult the course calendar for the :

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 schedules: Fall 2025 and Winter 2026—visit us again for more updates!

Location

Conestoga College, Guelph Campus

460 Speedvale Ave W

Guelph, Ontario

N1E 1P1

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 :

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 schedules: Winter 2026—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

To be announced

Training details

Schedule

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 schedules: Spring/Summer 2025, Fall 2025, and Winter 2026—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

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 :

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 schedules: Fall 2025 and Winter 2026—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 :

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 schedules: Fall 2025 and 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 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: Fall 2025, and 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

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 

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 schedules: Winter 2026—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.

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 :

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 schedules: 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 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

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 schedules: Spring/Summer 2025, Fall 2025, and 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

Innovation in Automotive Training

Email: jason.wu@aiacanada.com

Mentoring Excellence

The Mentoring Excellence training program is a facilitated live virtual training aimed at shop owners, managers and journey people working in Ontario’s mechanical automotive sector. This training will equip you with essential skills for effectively training your team, it comprises of several elements including guidance, practical understanding and best practices that foster diversity, equity and inclusion Empower your staff, elevate your leadership abilities, and unlock your shop’s potential for success!

Your instructor

To be announced

Training details

Schedule

This program consists of four 2-hour sessions (total 8 hours) of virtual training led by a college instructor.

Stay tuned for our upcoming course schedules: Spring/Summer 2025, Fall 2025, and Winter 2026—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 to apply for the virtual Mentoring Excellence training.

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.

Park N Fly Benefits

How the program works

  • Members select their departure city from the drop-down menu
    1. Choose Valet or Self-Park where applicable
    2. Enter their outbound and return dates
    3. Click find your rate
    4. The rates will automatically load
    5. Print a copy of the coupon
  • When exiting the lot
    1. Scan the printed Park’N Fly coupon at the Self-Park pay station
  • If members are using a Valet location
    • Hand a copy of the printed voucher to the agent at check-out or give them the discount code 1120313 once the code is entered by the agent the rate will automatically append to the AIA Canada rate program.
  • Discount Code 1120313
  • At check out members simply scan their pre-printed coupon the Valet or Self-Park pay station
  • When exiting the lot
    • Select form of payment
      1. Credit card
      2. Debit card
    • If they have any difficulties simply
      1. Manually enter 1120313 at the pay station and the rate will be applied
    • Scan the Park’N Fly ticket