Accelerate Auto invites 100 students to experience CIAS, glimpse auto career paths

Accelerate Auto, a nonprofit seeking to boost Black representation in Canada’s automotive sector, invited 100 high school students from across Greater Toronto to explore the Canadian International AutoShow (CIAS) in January. 

The move was meant to help students immerse themselves in the auto show experience, while also offering a glimpse at some of the career paths within the automotive industry. 

“Students who never usually participate in initiatives at school jumped on this because they are into cars. I think it’s amazing. We need more opportunities like these for our kids,” said Celia Clarke, a secondary school teacher at Alexander Mackenzie in Richmond Hill, Ont., in an interview with Canadian auto dealer

The event began with a welcome from representatives of Accelerate Auto, the Ontario Vehicle Innovation Network’s (OVIN) Skills, Talent, the Automotive Business School of Canada (ABSC) from Georgian College, Ontario Tech University, taq Automotive Intelligence, the Automotive Parts Manufacturers Association (APMA), Project Arrow, and other organizations. 

“It’s great to come to showcase the programs we offer and how they relate to the automotive industry and beyond,” said Roger Ragoonath, Senior Recruitment Officer at Ontario Tech University. “We’re here to support the students’ journey and help them find career opportunities that will push them into their industries moving forward.”

Following initial greetings, the students embarked on a tour of the auto show. The day’s festivities concluded with a networking luncheon, during which the students engaged in meaningful discussions with various industry professionals. 

“It was an enjoyable, engaging time with the students. It’s a great opportunity for potential students to speak with me and learn more about Georgian College,” said Taylor Woods, a marketing officer from the ABSC.

The afternoon session included a panel of four women — some prior university students, some recent entrees into the automotive field. High school students were able to ask questions and gain clarity on potential career paths within the auto sector. 

Genevieve Aguigwo, a third year mechanical engineering student and intern at Tesla, described the experience as “really exciting because I got to relay a lot of things I wish people (had) told me when I was younger.” 

Accelerate Auto’s Executive Chair, Christopher Nabeta, emphasized the significance of such initiatives. “You never know what curiosity might be sparked from a visit like this.”

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