Spotlight on Jean Baril: Training the technicians of tomorrow
Passionate about mechanics from a very young age, Jean Baril has dedicated his career to passing on his knowledge and experience to the next generation of the automotive industry. After nearly 17 years as a mechanic, he has spent more than 26 years teaching automotive mechanics at the École des métiers de l’équipement motorisé, where he contributes every day to training the technicians of tomorrow.
*Please note, this interview is in French only.
What does your role involve, and what does a typical day look like at your organization?
I have been an automotive mechanics instructor at the École des métiers de l’équipement motorisé for more than 26 years. My role is to share my passion and knowledge with future automotive technicians, both in terms of technical skills and professional values. A typical day includes practical and theoretical instruction, supporting students throughout their learning, and a great deal of mentoring to prepare them for the realities of the workforce.
What has your career path in the industry been like?
My interest in mechanics began at a very young age, tinkering with my father and repairing my first bicycles and mopeds. I later worked as a gas station attendant before completing vocational training in automotive mechanics and recreational vehicle mechanics. I worked as a mechanic for nearly 17 years in various shops before transitioning to teaching due to health issues and a desire to help better prepare the next generation.
What challenges do you face in your role?
One of the biggest challenges is keeping students motivated and engaged in an environment where technology is evolving very quickly. Teaching methods also need to be continually adapted to meet the changing realities of the trade, particularly with electronic systems, ADAS, and modern vehicles. Student retention and providing students with the support they need also remain important challenges.
What motivates you most about your work or the industry?
What motivates me most is sharing my passion and seeing young people grow and succeed in the industry. There is a great sense of pride in supporting students who later become colleagues or skilled professionals. I also appreciate that mechanics is a hands-on, stimulating profession that is constantly evolving.
What does the Automotive Industries Association of Canada mean to you, and what motivates your continued involvement over the years?
AIA Canada plays an important role in supporting the industry, promoting careers in the trades, and contributing to the development of the next generation. The association’s initiatives, including AIA Day, organized annually by the Quebec Division, help raise awareness of careers in the sector and encourage young people to consider the automotive industry as a modern and rewarding career choice.
In your opinion, what will be the main challenges facing the industry in the medium and long term?
The main challenge will be keeping pace with technological advancements. Driver assistance systems, electric vehicles, and new technologies require skills and training programs to be continually updated. The industry will also need to find solutions to attract and retain more skilled workers.
Why is the next generation such an important issue for the industry, what initiatives have been implemented to address it, and what are the main challenges associated with integrating young people into the workforce?
The next generation is essential to ensuring the future of the industry. Several initiatives, such as internships, student competitions, and partnerships with employers, help support young people along their career paths. However, integration into the workforce can sometimes be difficult, particularly when employers offer temporary positions or do not provide graduates with enough opportunities to develop their skills.
In your opinion, what are the advantages of joining the auto care industry?
It is an exciting industry that offers a wide variety of career opportunities and is constantly evolving. Technology changes rapidly, making the profession stimulating and dynamic. There are also many opportunities for advancement and specialization for people who are motivated and eager to learn.
What is the biggest change or evolution you have noticed or witnessed since joining the industry?
Technological advancement represents the biggest change. Vehicles are much more sophisticated than they used to be, and electronic systems now play a central role in diagnostics and repair. Work methods, tools, and required skills have evolved tremendously over the years.
What advice would you give to people who would like to join the auto care industry?
I would tell them to choose this profession because they are passionate about it and to be prepared to continuously learn. Attendance, punctuality, and reliability are essential qualities for success. You also need to be curious, open to new technologies, and persistent. When you truly enjoy what you do, opportunities naturally follow.
About the École des métiers de l’équipement motorisé de Montréal
The École des métiers de l’équipement motorisé de Montréal (ÉMÉMM) is one of Quebec’s largest vocational training centres specializing in automotive mechanics and technology. Founded more than 100 years ago and located in Montreal, the school offers several programs related to automotive mechanics, collision repair, heavy vehicles, heavy equipment, and new hybrid and electric vehicle technologies. Recognized for its hands-on approach and close ties with the industry, ÉMÉMM trains the next generation of the auto care industry each year.
About the campaign I am AIA
I am AIA aims to raise the profile of auto care industry professionals in Canada with the goal of humanizing our industry and showcasing members of AIA Canada. If you are interested in participating in sharing your story through this campaign, we encourage you to apply.