The Automotive Aftermarket Repair Organization of Canada is launching a new technical training event this fall, with the AARO Tech X Summit 2026 scheduled for Sept. 24 to 26 in Mississauga, Ont.
The event will involve three days of advanced training with top instructors, real-world solutions and networking opportunities. The summit will take place at the Hilton Garden Inn Toronto Airport West/Mississauga.
"It is aimed at mechanical shops, but, more and more, we're seeing a lot of crossover with the work being done by collision businesses," Patty Kettles, executive director of AARO, told Collision Repair.
The event is being promoted under the theme Advancing skills driving the industry forward. It will focus on mechanical technician training, with attendees able to pick between two specialized streams running concurrent events.
The first day will include two training tracks, with one focused on diesel and the other on diagnostics. The second day will offer tracks on EV technology and electrical and diagnostics. The final day will be a half-day program, with one track focused on diagnostics and another focused on training for the AUTEL ST.
“It’s going to be fantastic training at a really attractive price,” Kettles said. “We’re expecting people to pick one day, two days or three days to attend.”
AARO, a not-for-profit association representing Canada’s independent automotive aftermarket repair sector, has identified training, advocacy, government relations and member support as core areas of its work.
