Fulfilling her goals by helping others fulfill theirs: Spotlight on Kathryn Jones

June 4, 2019

It seems like Kathryn Jones was destined to work in the automotive aftermarket industry. She came from an aftermarket family, so it was always on her radar. Now, through the Young Professionals in the Aftermarket (YPA) Committee, she’s looking to bring other young people into the industry.

Kathryn Jones

District Sales Manager, Toronto and Ottawa

Company: DRiV ™ (Formerly Tenneco)

Years in the Automotive Aftermarket Industry: 15+

Was your education related to the automotive aftermarket?

I went to Georgian College and received a Business diploma in Automotive Marketing and then went to Northwood University in Michigan and received a Bachelor’s degree of Business in Automotive Aftermarket Management.

Did you know you wanted to work in the automotive aftermarket?

I grew up with family in the Automotive Aftermarket, so from a young age I was submersed into it and my passion ignited for this industry. I am 100% a car nerd, I consider myself extremely lucky to wake up every day and work in an industry that is my passion.

What does the YPA Committee mean to you and what would you like to see the committee achieve in the future?

I set a goal 12 years ago to become part of the YPA Committee (a goal achieved once I started working for Tenneco). I believe in promoting and being an advocate for careers within the automotive aftermarket. My personal passion is getting involved with students and opening their eyes to the many career opportunities that are on this side of the industry.

What advice would you give someone who is just starting out or is looking to transition into the industry?

Network like crazy; get out there and talk to as many people as possible. It’s a large, yet very small industry.

About DRiV™

Headquartered in Lake Forest, Illinois, Tenneco Inc. is one of the world’s leading designers, manufacturers and marketers of Ride Performance and Clean Air products and technology solutions for diversified markets, including light vehicle, commercial truck, off-highway equipment and the aftermarket.

Find out more about careers at DRiV.

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About the Young Professionals in the Aftermarket

Young Professionals in the Aftermarket (YPA) is an Automotive Industries Association of Canada (AIA Canada) committee comprising of young executives, of 45 years or younger, in the Canadian auto care sector. The Committee’s mandate is to ensure the future growth and prosperity of the aftermarket industry.