According to The Economist, Canada ranks fifth in the world in terms of car ownership per capita –averaging 560 cars per 1,000 residents, a fact that puts Canada ahead of even Germany and Great Britain in this category! In Ontario alone, according to provincial government statistics, every year approximately 1,000,000 vehicles change ownership.

Operating in tandem with the high-volume ownership statistics is the trend of longer ownership of vehicles. On average, owners are keeping their cars for 10 years and their trucks for nine years which will, in turn, fuel an increasing demand for auto parts such as brakes, shock absorbers, suspension components, as well as auto body panels and other assemblies. The demand for parts is creating more opportunities for individuals wishing to embark on careers in auto parts, inventory control, and sales.

Auto parts sales representatives –as defined by Service Canada — promote sales to existing clients, conduct sales transactions, identify and solicit potential clients, and discuss the specifications of parts with clients. Salaries range from $30,000 to $35,000 per year. No certification is required but knowledge of automotive systems is desired. The educational requirements consist of a High School Leaving Certificate.

Auto parts inventory control specialists place orders for parts, maintain parts catalogues, ship parts to service departments, and ensure that orders are correct and that parts are in perfect condition when they arrive. Salaries range from $20,000 to $45,000 per year. No certification is required, but a good knowledge of automotive systems is highly recommended. The educational level required is high school leaving.

These careers should be of interest to students of the ICS Canada Automotive Mechanics Program since the program teaches the student about engines, transmissions, computerized controls, and general troubleshooting - everything on the car, from bumper to bumper. The student also learns how to do tune-ups, oil changes, and overall preventative maintenance. Contributed by: Michael Savich, ICS Canada

Contributed by: Michael Savich, ICS Canada

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