Innovation in Automotive Training Program returns with new funding and expanded offerings
Ottawa, Ontario, March 25, 2025 – The Automotive Industries Association of Canada (AIA Canada) is proud to announce the return and expansion of the Innovation in Automotive Training program, made possible through renewed funding. Since 2022, this AIA Canada-led initiative has grown each year, training over 480 Ontarians and helping expose more people to career opportunities in the aftermarket sector while providing essential up-skilling for the current workforce. With this latest round of funding, the program will continue to address Ontario’s demand for skilled tradespeople and ensure that automotive professionals are prepared to work on the latest vehicle technologies, including electric vehicles (EVs) and advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS).
“Ontario’s automotive sector is second to none and it depends on the hardworking workers who make it possible,” said Premier Doug Ford. “We’re investing to support workers and new careers in this critical industry in the face of tariffs from President Trump, just like we’re standing up for workers across the province, no matter what.”
This year, training will be offered in collaboration with:
- Cambrian College (new for 2025)
- Conestoga College (Guelph Campus)
- Fanshawe College (London Campus)
- Mohawk College (Stoney Creek and Fennell Campuses)
The program’s expansion ensures that more Ontarians will have access to the hands-on training needed to succeed in today’s evolving automotive industry.
“Our government has made historic investments in our workforce and this funding will help us continue to protect workers at a critical time for our province,” said David Piccini, Minister of Labour, Immigration, Training and Skills Development. “We will do everything we can to defend against economic threats while reinforcing long-term economic productivity and good-paying jobs. By prioritizing investments in training, we are standing up for Ontario’s workers, their families, businesses and communities.”
The EV Up-skilling training curriculum has been refreshed to reflect the latest advancements in electric vehicle maintenance and repair. The Innovation in Automotive Training Program remains available exclusively to Ontario residents, ensuring that provincial workers have access to the training they need to succeed.
“With the rapid transformation of the automotive sector, AIA Canada is committed to providing training that not only upskills current workers but also attracts new talent to the industry,” said Jean-François Champagne, CAE, President and CEO of AIA Canada. “By expanding our partnerships and refining our curriculum, we are ensuring that both aspiring and experienced automotive professionals in Ontario have the opportunities and training needed to build successful careers in this evolving industry.”
To learn more about the Innovation in Automotive Training program, visit ev-training.ca and mentoringexcellence.ca.
This Employment Ontario project is funded in part by the Government of Canada and the Government of Ontario.
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About the Automotive Industries Association of Canada
We represent, support and lead innovation in Canada’s $43.9 billion auto care sector. With thousands of members from coast to coast, our vision, research, training programs and advocacy supports Canada’s collision and mechanical sectors. Our best practices for the auto care industry help our members keep Canada’s fleet of almost 26.6 million vehicles on the road.
Whether you have been in a collision or require maintenance, our members help vehicles last longer, pollute less, and keep drivers safer by offering Canadians any product or service a vehicle may need after it rolls off the dealership’s lot.
For more information, please contact:
AIA Canada Communications
1-800-808-2920, ext. 2285