With more than 30 years in the automotive collision repair industry, Shane Roset has built a career rooted in hands-on shop work, education, and a strong commitment to safe, high-quality repairs. From starting in an auto body shop as a teenager to becoming an I-CAR Canada instructor shaping the next generation of technicians, his journey highlights the importance of continued training and lifelong learning in today’s rapidly evolving industry.
Have you always wanted to work in the automotive industry?
It was not something I had always planned, but I decided at an early age that this was the career path I wanted to pursue. I was not particularly drawn to classic cars, which is what brings many people into the industry. It was only after I began working in an auto body shop and experienced the work firsthand that I truly fell in love with the trade.
I was drawn to the problem-solving aspect and the process of repairing vehicles. From that point forward, I knew this was the work I wanted to do, and I have not looked back. I continue to find a great deal of satisfaction in restoring vehicles and making them look brand new again.
I have now been in the automotive collision repair industry for 34 years. I started working in a shop at the age of 15, helping when a family friend needed an extra hand at his auto body shop. What began as part-time work quickly evolved into a lifelong career in the trade.
Over the years, my career progressed from the shop floor to education. I have been an instructor in the Auto Body Technician program at Saskatchewan Polytechnic for the past 15 years, where I primarily teach apprenticeship training.
What would you say is the importance of continued collision training?
Safe and reliable repairs can only be completed when technicians have a strong understanding of vehicle construction and proper, proven repair techniques. What I learned during my technical training as an apprentice is vastly different from what technicians need to know today.
With technology and vehicle construction constantly evolving, ongoing training is essential to stay current. In today’s industry, a technician’s knowledge can become outdated very quickly, making lifelong learning critical. Continued training helps create skilled, confident technicians who can complete repairs correctly the first time, work more efficiently, and ensure safe repairs.
Why should technicians and companies consider I-CAR Canada training?
I-CAR Canada training provides focused professional development that is specifically tailored to the collision repair industry. The training helps technicians build the skills, confidence, and expertise needed to complete repairs safely, efficiently, and to the highest quality standards.
Everything learned through I-CAR Canada is directly applicable to the work technicians do every day. The training is always up to date, ensuring technicians remain current with the latest vehicle technology and repair procedures.
What is the most important aspect of being an I-CAR Canada instructor?
The most important part of being an I-CAR Canada instructor is educating technicians so they can confidently repair modern vehicles. I enjoy sharing my knowledge and experience, staying connected with others in the industry, and learning from the participants in my classes.
Teaching also allows me to stay current with new technology, techniques, and best practices in collision repair, which benefits both myself and the technicians I work with.
About I-CAR Canada
I-CAR is an international organization dedicated to providing the information required to perform complete, safe, and quality auto repairs.
I-CAR Canada is a training and recognition program run by the Automotive Industries Association of Canada (AIA Canada), a not-for-profit organization representing, supporting and leading innovation in Canada’s $43.9 billion auto care sector.
Aimed at up-skilling tradespeople in the collision industry, I-CAR training has been available in Canada since 1979 and has been operated by AIA Canada since 2010.