Fix Network’s Commitment to the Next Generation of Auto Repair Experts
It is no secret that the automotive industry is facing a signifi cant challenge: a growing shortage of skilled technicians. As experienced professionals retire, the urgency to attract and train the next generation of auto repair experts has never been more pressing. In response, Fix Network is proactively addressing this issue by prioritizing engagement with young talent and fostering a dynamic, attractive career path for aspiring technicians.
From hands-on training events and competitions to sponsorships and engaging social media content, Fix Network—a family of premium automotive repair brands in Canada including Fix Auto and ProColor Collision, NOVUS Glass windshield repair and replacement and Speedy Auto Service mechanical repair—is creating exciting opportunities for young people to explore and thrive in this vital industry. Their mission extends beyond simply fi lling the gap; they aim to inspire a new wave of skilled technicians who are passionate about automotive excellence.
TRAINING GROUND: WHERE TOMORROW’S TECHNICIANS TAKE THE DRIVER’S SEAT
Fix Network’s commitment to continuous training and development is exemplifi ed by their three state-of-the-art training centres located in Blainville, Quebec; Milton, Ontario; and Calgary, Alberta. These cutting-edge facilities serve as hubs of excellence, supporting not only their valued franchise partners but also youth exploring careers in automotive repair. Through a variety of engaging programs and events, Fix is laying the groundwork for a new era of skilled technicians ready to lead the industry forward.
Among their notable initiatives are the co-ed welding camp and the Young Women in Tech & Trades (YWITT) camp, hosted at their Calgary training centre in partnership with CAREERS NextGen, an organization that brings together industry, schools, government and communities to guide youth into successful career pathways. The YWITT event, in particular gave several female high school students the chance to experience working in a painting booth and hear from successful, inspiring women in the automotive repair industry, such as Cecile Bukmeier, chair of the Northern Alberta Institute of Technology’s autobody program. Cecile spent the day coaching and mentoring the young women, instilling confi dence that they can have successful and meaningful careers in the trades. Immense pride comes in knowing that participants from last year’s inaugural event are now apprenticing at various franchise locations, demonstrating the tangible impact of programs such as these in guiding young talent.
“Our goal is to inspire and equip the next generation with the skills they need to succeed,” said Jeff Francis, Technical Trainer in Western Canada. “Seeing these young individuals progress and thrive in our industry is incredibly rewarding, and it’s what drives our passion for teaching and leading future professionals.” Fix will be building on the momentum of these events with an upcoming Open House, held once again at their training centre, where students will engage with live demonstrations from Fix Network vendor partners, and will have the opportunity to leave their resumes with local Fix franchisees.
ENGAGING THE NEXT GENERATION: SKILLS CANADA AND BEYOND
As sponsors of the Skills Canada Competitions across the country, Fix Network further displays their commitment to tomorrow’s industry leaders at these events by engaging students with interactive booths where they can learn firsthand about automotive repair. Additionally, their technical trainers serve as judges, providing guidance and expertise to aspiring talents eager to make their mark in the industry. A shining example of their dedication to young talent is their sponsorship of 15-year-old accomplished mini cup racer Berlyn McKay, who has been racing since she was eleven and is the only female in her category. Initially supported by Fix Auto Airdrie, Berlyn’s sponsorship has now expanded to the corporate level. Collaborating with vendor partners like 3M, BASF and SATA, and while guiding Berlyn through her participation in the project, Fix has recently completed refinishing her vehicle and have also provided her with a fire-proof racing suit. With over 70 races planned for the year in both Canada and the U.S., Fix Network is looking forward to following her journey as she continues to inspire young racing and automotive enthusiasts.
CONNECTING THROUGH SOCIAL MEDIA: ENGAGING THE NEXT GENERATION
Social media plays a crucial role in connecting with the next generation of automotive technicians. Fix Network has embraced this by launching new Instagram pages for each of their Canadian brands, creating dynamic platforms to showcase exciting partnerships and initiatives. These pages highlight their diverse activities, including their 2024 sponsorship of the LA Kings training camp held in Quebec.
Recently, they expanded their digital presence with a new YouTube channel dedicated to showcasing innovative projects and collaborations. Among the standout content are the humorous Passion Autos capsules, which offer a behind-the-scenes look at vehicle repairs, featuring many of their ProColor franchise partners in the Quebec region. Their latest initiative, set to be featured on their YouTube channel, involves restoring a vehicle purchased from an auction held by the Rust Bros of Netflix’s Rust Valley Restorers. This vehicle will be meticulously restored and auctioned, with proceeds going to their charity partner, Ronald McDonald House Charities Canada.
As the automotive industry navigates the challenge of a shrinking pool of skilled technicians, Fix Network stands at the forefront of a movement dedicated to cultivating the next generation of auto repair experts. Through a holistic approach that combines state-of-the-art training, strategic partnerships and dynamic engagement across social media platforms, Fix Network is more than just addressing the skilled technician gap—they’re inspiring a passion for vehicle repair mastery.
