Finding her lane: Jennifer Fox on leadership, confidence, and change
As part of International Women’s Day 2026, AIA Canada is recognizing women from across the auto care industry, highlighting the experiences, achievements, and successes in their careers. Throughout her career, Jennifer Fox’s journey has reflected resilience, opportunity, and a commitment to supporting women in the industry.
From unexpected beginnings to passionate leadership
Despite growing up around the auto care sector, Jennifer never initially saw it as a career path. After completing university and working in both the public and private sectors, she entered the aftermarket on a contract basis. What was supposed to be a short-term role quickly became a turning point. Once she stepped inside the industry, Jennifer recognized the breadth of opportunities available and found herself drawn to the dynamic nature of the work. She soon knew this was where she wanted to build her career—and she hasn’t looked back since.
Breaking barriers: A historic milestone
One of Jennifer’s proudest accomplishments has been serving as the first female President in the 83-year history of Auto Electric Service. This milestone holds special significance, not only for her personally but for the industry at large. Leading a tight-knit executive team, Jennifer has brought fresh perspectives and strategic energy to her role as President, and her achievement signifies both progress and possibility for women across the auto care sector.
Jennifer’s advice to women aspiring to flourish in the automotive industry is rooted in self-awareness and confidence. She emphasizes that strength doesn’t always come from technical expertise alone.
“My hard parts knowledge, although always growing, is still limited. I am never going to be able to install the parts we sell—but I am not where I am because of my parts knowledge. I have leveraged my strengths and skills in other areas and brought those to the table with confidence.”
She encourages women to identify what they uniquely bring to the table, to know their strengths, and to confidently voice their opinions and ideas. For Jennifer, success stems from a blend of competence, self-assurance, and presence.
Industry support: Growth and opportunity
The auto care sector has evolved significantly in recent years to support women in various ways. Jennifer highlights that the industry today is far more inclusive, providing pathways for women through leadership initiatives, education, recognition, and mentoring opportunities. Through her engagement with AIA Canada, she has encountered many inspiring women who lead by example and uplift others as they progress. This sense of community and mutual support has been fundamental to her own professional growth.
What more can be done
While progress has been meaningful, Jennifer believes the industry can continue to do better—especially by creating stronger community connections. “Relationships continue to be so important, and it is essential the industry finds ways to foster community in new and unique ways.”
Even when women break ground in their own organizations, having a wider network of support from others who have navigated similar challenges can be invaluable. Jennifer sees fostering these connections as a key next step for empowering women throughout the auto care sector.
The people behind her journey
Jennifer attributes much of her success to the support of people at different stages of her life and career. Growing up in a family of strong women provided her with resilience, independence, and confidence. Over the past 13 years, she has also been supported by mentors and leaders—including Bob Jaworski, Larry Pady, and Brent Kulcsar—who encouraged her potential and provided space for her voice and skills to flourish.
About Jennifer Fox
Jennifer is President of Auto Electric Service Ltd., where she leads the strategic vision and supports growth within the organization and the broader auto care sector in Canada.