>>> TRAINING
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inding the right education is important before entering any field of work, whether you receive a formal education at a post-secondary institution or you dive right into an apprenticeship. One way or another, you want to make sure the education and training you’re receiving lines up with your field of work, and you’re curating a set of skills that is useful to your employer. If you’ve been thinking about a career in the automotive industry, more specifically in a bodyshop setting, we’re here to provide some insight into what skills and characteristics are valuable when looking to succeed in the workplace.
DEMONSTRATE WILLINGNESS TO LEARN AND ADAPT The automotive industry is in the midst of major technological advancements in the realm of electric and autonomous vehicles. This means that the information, tools, procedures and technology that we currently use to repair vehicles will also be changing as more EVs are rolled out on a mass-market scale. Kim Roberts, customer experience, business development and marketing manager of Barrie North Fix Auto said that one of the main qualities they look for when hiring a technician is the willingness to learn and take initiative in their education. “Someone who’s shown that they’re doing I-CAR training and working towards their individual Platinum Status,” Roberts noted. “And someone who’s interested in learning about the new technology in vehicles.” The industry is constantly changing and being able to learn and adapt accordingly is an incredibly valuable asset to have around the bodyshop.
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BECOME LICENSED, OR BE ON YOUR WAY TO BECOMING A LICENSED TECHNICIAN Though it’s not mandatory to be licensed, it is considered an asset by many body shops to have or be working towards your provinces’ respective licensing designation. There are many possibilities when it comes to the type of licensing you are looking to acquire, and it depends highly on the type of work you are hoping to perform. For instance, in Ontario if you’re looking to become a collision damage or auto body repairer you would want to complete either the 310B Auto Body and Collision Damage Repairer or the 310Q Auto Body Repairer certification program. Of course, the most valued certification is through the Red Seal program which is a nationally recognized standard for skilled trades across Canada.
