Solid industry and community support for student-run Georgian College Auto Show
On the opening day of the 34th Georgian College Auto Show in Barrie, the sun shone brightly, as did the students from the Automotive Business School of Canada program who organized and ran the event.
The annual event is a rite of passage for the students attending the program as they learn new skills and make invaluable industry contacts to help launch their automotive industry careers. To show their support, prominent industry leaders attend the kickoff event each year that officially opens the show.
“I am very confident that once you graduate, the combination of the learnings from your studies, the experience from your co-ops and the practicum from managing this show, will help you to be well prepared to tackle the challenges of tomorrow,” said John White, CADA President and CEO in his remarks at the opening ceremonies. “The auto industry is and will continue to be one where good talent is in high demand.”
White was joined by other dignitaries like MPP Andrea Khanjin, representatives from the City of Barrie, Don Gordon, Chair of Georgian College Board of Governors, and Mike Stollery, President of AutoIQ and longtime ABSC board member and supporter.
“To the students, I go to car shows all around the world, but this one is my favourite,” — Mike Stollery, President of AutoIQ
“I want to start by acknowledging our student directors. Ajay Kanwar, Alissa Abramova, Camille Bérubé, Gabriel Basque and Jessica Cowan. What a great job,” said Jason Dale, ABSC Executive Director, in his remarks. “Putting together an event of this size and scale is no small feat. I commend their dedication, creativity and hard work and I’m very proud of each and every one of them. To the 260 or so students participating in the show over the next few days, we couldn’t do it without you. Thank you for your commitment, your energy and your dedication to our auto show.”
“To the students, I go to car shows all around the world, but this one is my favourite,” said Mike Stollery, President of AutoIQ. “I really appreciate what all of you have done. Every year I walk through here and I’ve been so impressed.”
Cami Bérubé, Student Director, Marketing and Media Relations said the students tried new marketing approaches this year to attract attendees from other communities. “We are trying to ignite the passion for automotive which is the main theme of our show,” said Bérubé. “We tried to appeal to different audiences, and tailored ads for them. I learned so much, I’m so excited and so proud of our team.”
Bérubé said she and her follow student directors, and the hundreds of student participants made lasting connections. “We are a big family and it really shows.”
Katelyn Gorelle, is an ABSC student who was Co-Captain of the FCA team. “This is my third year doing the auto show, and first year with FCA and I love it,” said Gorelle. “We go through manufacturers’ training and learn everything about the brand.”
This year’s event also featured a first-ever VIP night that was well attended by alumni from the program, and employers who were keen to interact with the next generation of students who will soon fill the ranks of the industry. At the event, the students unveiled a new plaque that showcases the names of the student auto show directors who have served over the years.
