Earlier this month, CARSTAR London Centre, (Don-Mor Automotive Group), hosted a shop tour for Fanshawe College pre-apprentice students, offering hands-on exposure to collision repair technologies and career pathways.
“Every year, we aim to host two shop tours for Fanshawe College pre-apprentice students, particularly those in the Auto Body Repair Techniques program, giving them a chance to see how classroom learning translates into real-world applications,” said Maryam Khan, human resources business partner at Don-Mor Automotive Group.
Students were introduced to advanced capabilities, including ADAS calibration, paint colour matching and Spanesi electronic frame measuring, while also connecting with experienced professionals in the shop.
“Beyond the demonstrations, the tours provide a critical networking opportunity, allowing students to engage with experienced professionals and gain insight into career paths in collision repair,” Khan said.
The initiative is part of Don-Mor’s ongoing collaboration with Fanshawe College through its Apprenticeship & Skilled Trades Accelerator. The company has also partnered with Literacy Link South Central on its “step up and succeed in the skilled trades” program, which supports apprenticeship success and broader workforce development.
Representatives from Skilled Trades Ontario and the Apprenticeship Network also participated in recent tours, highlighting collaboration between educators, employers and government.
“As the demand for skilled professionals in collision repair continues to grow, we believe it is essential to invest not only in apprentices but also in the employers who provide the mentorship and training that shape the next generation of talent,” Khan said.
Don-Mor Automotive Group indicated the tours are intended to support workforce development by fostering hands-on learning, industry connections and clear apprenticeship pathways for students entering the trade.
