International recruitment in the automotive sector : the AIA Canada’s actions

Although it is a debated subject in our society, the immigration of qualified workers represents one of the major solutions to the labour shortage in the automobile industry. Here, it is the topic of conversation we had with Alana Baker, Vice President, Government Relations and Research at the Automotive Industries Association of Canada (AIA Canada).

What is AIA Canada’s point of view on international recruitment in the aftermarket automotive industry ?

Alana Baker : Canada’s labour shortage, including within the auto care industry, will not only require new and innovative domestic strategies, but also reinforcement from immigration and workers from outside the country. As such, AIA Canada is an active member of the Business Liaison Group, led by the Government of Canada’s Commissioner for Employers, as well as other stakeholder coalition groups advocating for strengthened policies to engage all eligible workers to participate in our industry’s workforce. Diversity in the workplace is an untapped potential that can play a vital role in the industry’s success. To address labour shortages, industry stakeholders support attracting foreign trained workers with automotive backgrounds or training those without.

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Innovation in Automotive Training

In a changing automotive industry, several free training programs related to new technologies are offered in four specialized colleges in Ontario. Check them out!

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 (AIA) of Canada has joined forces with Conestoga College, Fanshawe College, St. Lawrence College and Plug N’ Drive to offer FREE training programs to develop new expertise and skills in the auto care industry:

  • 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 EV and new technologies. Participants may be eligible for supports like work boots, basic tools, safety equipment, reference books, etc. as well as transportation assistance. This program consists of in-person theoretical and hands-on training led by College instructors for 2-3 days a week. 
  • 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. This program consists of in-person theoretical and hands-on training led by College instructors for 2-3 days a week. 
  • The Advanced driver assistance system (ADAS) training program is an up-skilling course allowing current licensed automotive technicians and senior level apprentices to master their understanding of ADAS as well as develop maintenance and repair skills relating to ADAS. This program consists of in-person theoretical and hands-on training led by College instructors for a total of 16 hours.

Who is eligible for the 3 training programs?

The three training programs are opened to people who are:

  • 18 years of age or older
  • Canadian citizens, Permanent residents or awaiting Permanent resident status
  • And residents of Ontario

For the Career Exploration training program especially, unemployed or underemployed persons interested in a career in automotive trades can register. For the other two programs, people must be currently employed in Ontario as a licensed automotive technician or senior level apprentice.

Those interested can complete a small form to submit their interest for the free training programs and to receive more information.

9 attributes that bosses seek

23839138_mMost bosses keep their thoughts to themselves, but the majority just love managing individuals with profiles that go beyond the usual skills and accomplishments. The following is a list of attributes that business leaders value most:

– Positive attitude: An easy-going personality and superior social skills go a long way in facilitating management/employee communication.

– Tact: Expressing dissatisfaction can be very productive when the opinion is backed by facts and experience.

– Open-Mindedness: New ways of accomplishing tasks and constructive criticism help improve skill levels and results.

– Self-Control: If you let momentary situations or emotions cloud your judgement, your credibility with your boss and co-workers will suffer. Continue reading “9 attributes that bosses seek”

Stand out and land your dream job!

In spite of the chronic shortage of skilled workers, choice job opportunities always manage to attract large numbers of eager, well-qualified job seekers, therefore, you must find a way to stand out throughout the entire selection process!valeur-candidature

Before you even start thinking of the job interview, you need to create a cover letter and resume that will get their attention. Avoid the ready-made clichés that are available on the Internet, as recruitment specialists are quick to spot a phony!

Select three skills that apply to the position while being factual and to-the-point. Careful review of the job offer will help you find the best keywords. Your resume must reflect who you are, while drawing attention to those skills that make you the best person for the job.

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Why my resume is so important!

A resume is a document which includes experience, skills, education, and accomplishments that is used to apply for jobs.Embauche_mecanicien

Before you start work on your resume, review free samples that fit a variety of employment situations. These examples or templates provide job seekers with resume formats that will work for every job seeker. Many of them are available on the Web.

Use a resume template or a sample as a starting point for creating your own resume. Add your information to the resume template, then tweak and edit it to personalize your resume, so it highlights your skills and abilities.