Saskatoon, Saskatchewan -- The Saskatchewan Association of Auto Repairers came together at the Willows Golf & Country Club for its autumn conference and golf tournament on September 4.
The conference, hosted by SAAR's executive director, Tom Bissonnette, saw a considerable amount of focus placed on the changing training requirements facing the industry. A series of presentations featured speakers representing organizations including Saskatchewan Polytechnic, the Saskatchewan Industry Education Council and the Saskatchewan Distance Learning Centre.
Andy Boyd, 3M's senior business development manager for digital platforms in the United States and Canada, addressed attendees about reducing cycle times in collision repair operations.
Ciaran Downes, senior director of national appraisal services for Saskatchewan Government Insurance, discussed current claims volumes and industry trends affecting the province's automotive repair sector.
Following a networking break and lunch, participants moved outdoors for the Long Drive Contest before the 1 p.m. shotgun start for the golf tournament. The Willows Golf & Country Club, a Dunes-style course, offers a player-friendly layout and amenities including cart service, GPS on golf carts, a snack shop, and rental clubs.
The day concluded with a steak barbecue and prize-giving ceremony, celebrating tournament winners while fostering continued networking among industry professionals.
"Thank you to all of our sponsors for supporting our organization, our members and the conferences -- we couldn't do it without you!" wrote SAAR staff in a social media post."
Beyond the educational and recreational components, the conference also served as a crucial fundraiser for the association's charitable initiatives. Proceeds from the SAAR Fall Conference support programs aimed at encouraging youth to enter the auto repair trades, including Sask Distance Learning, Regina and Saskatoon Industry & Education Boot Camps and Sask Polytechnic.
