Spotlight on Alain Nolet: A career rooted in change and innovation
With more than 45 years of experience in the automotive aftermarket industry, this road sales representative has evolved alongside the sector’s many transformations, moving from warehouse work to an advisory role supporting mechanical repair shops. Through his career journey, Alain Nolet shares the challenges brought by technological advancements, the importance of continuous adaptation, and the value of human relationships that define his profession.
What is your background in the industry?
I am a road sales representative in the automotive aftermarket industry, where I visit repair shops to assess their needs, advise them on products, equipment, and new developments, and maintain close relationships with my customers. I have been working in the field for about 45 years.
I started at age 19 in a warehouse and quickly became a counterperson before advancing to the position of assistant manager. An opportunity then arose for me to move into outside sales; I accepted a three-month trial period, which turned out to be the right decision.
What I enjoy most about my job is interacting with customers and the fact that every day is different, making it a stimulating and non-routine profession.
What challenges do you face?
The main challenges I face in the industry are related to the rapid evolution of technology, particularly with the arrival of hybrid and electric vehicles. This creates a constant need for training to stay up to date, both for myself and for the repair shops I support.
There is also the challenge of adaptation, as repair shops must adjust their practices and equipment to keep pace with these changes. The industry is adapting through ongoing training and the involvement of the next generation, although some more experienced industry participants can sometimes be more reluctant to embrace these transformations.
What advice would you give to people who have just joined the Auto Care Industry?
I would tell people joining the auto care industry to stay curious and open to learning, because it is a field that is constantly evolving. You need to be motivated, have a positive attitude, and ideally possess a technical foundation to succeed and grow in the industry.
The industry needs new talent, both on the technician side and among sales representatives, but it is still sometimes misunderstood. People should not hesitate to explore the many opportunities it offers. It is a dynamic sector, full of challenges and innovations, where human relationships play an important role—making it a highly rewarding and stimulating work environment.
What is the biggest change or evolution you have noticed or witnessed since entering the industry?
The biggest change I have observed in the industry is undoubtedly the transition from paper catalogs to digital tools. Today, searches are more complex, but they are also much more efficient thanks to access to vast amounts of information and a variety of resources.
It is now easier to find parts, particularly because of better-developed supply networks and more accessible information.
What does the Automotive Industries Association of Canada mean to you, and what would you like to see the association accomplish in the future?
For me, AIA Canada plays an essential role in the industry. It advocates for key issues such as the right to repair, contributes to the recognition of our sector, and provides important representation with governments.
In the future, I would like to see the association continue to strengthen its voice and influence while maintaining its efforts to support industry stakeholders as they face the many changes and challenges ahead.
What will you remember most about your career?
What I will remember above all from my career are the human relationships. Whether with customers, colleagues, or partners, these connections are what truly gave meaning to my journey and made my experience in the industry so rewarding.
About Uni-Select
In Canada, Uni-Select supports more than 16,000 automotive and collision repair shops, as well as more than 4,000 additional shops through its automotive repair and installation banners and its automotive refinishing banners.
Its national network includes more than 1,000 independent locations serving customers, as well as more than 75 company-owned stores, many of which operate under the Uni-Select BUMPER TO BUMPER®, AUTO PARTS PLUS®, and FINISHMASTER® banner programs.
About the I Am AIA Campaign
I am AIA aims to highlight professionals working in Canada’s Auto Care Industry in order to humanize our industry and showcase AIA Canada members. If you are interested in sharing your story through this campaign, we encourage you to apply.