CCIF Toronto

The opening session of the Canadian Auto Care Industry Conference, presented by Jean- François Champagne, CAE, president and CEO of AIA Canada, will provide attendees with insight on who AIA Canada is, and how our initiatives and advocacy aim to ensure the longevity and success of the auto care industry.

Speaker: Jean-François Champagne, president and CEO, AIA Canada

The panel will examine whether immigration can help address the labor challenges facing Canada’s auto care industry. While immigration is considered a key solution, the discussion will also emphasize the importance of broader industry strategies to effectively tackle labor shortages. This panel is part of AIA Canada’s ongoing efforts to address long-term labor market issues and ensure a sustainable workforce for the sector.

Moderator: James Channer, CEO, InMotion Brands

Panelists:
Tony Kuczynski, president and CEO, Mister Transmission
Paul Prochilo, CEO, Simplicity Car Care
Susan Mowbray, partner consulting, MNP
Karim Mouldi, president, Canari Recrutement International

Concurrent sessions will be offered consecutively, allowing attendees to choose two out of three sessions based on their track preference.

Empowering women in leadership: Building personal brands and fostering inclusive environments for growthIn this session, we will explore how gender equity and a strong personal brand can drive career progression and help women navigate challenges in male-dominated industries. Susanne Morello, senior vice president of marketing North America at Mevotech, will share insights from her 30-year career, detailing personal encounters with gender inequality and how embracing discomfort, increasing visibility and building relationships can turn adversity into opportunity. The session will also highlight effective strategies for attracting and retaining women in leadership roles, including mentorship, networking, and fostering inclusive cultures that support growth and advancement. Attendees will leave with actionable strategies to create empowered, equitable work environments that elevate women leaders.

Speaker: Susanne Morello, senior vice President – marketing North America, Mevotech

Concurrent sessions will be offered consecutively, allowing attendees to choose two out of three sessions based on their track preference.

Balancing the scales: Time management and burnout prevention for leaders

In today’s fast-paced work environment, the quest for work-life balance has never been more pressing. We often find ourselves asking: Do I work to live, or do I live to work? This session with Charles Fordjour, national sales manager – aftermarket at CARFAX Canada, will dive into this age-old question, exploring practical strategies for managing time effectively, maintaining productivity, and preventing burnout—all while prioritizing your mental and physical well-being.

Speaker: Charles Fordjour, national sales manager – aftermarket, CARFAX Canada

Concurrent sessions will be offered consecutively, allowing attendees to choose two out of three sessions based on their track preference.

What does this button do? Consumer experiences and expectations of vehicle tech

This session will explore how Canadian consumers engage with and perceive modern vehicle technology, highlighting the challenges and frustrations that often accompany advanced features. Rick Nadeau, president of Quorus Consulting will also address the increasing repair costs of these high-tech systems and their impact on consumer satisfaction. Through this analysis, we aim to gain a deeper understanding of the broader implications of these innovations and provide valuable insights into how the auto care industry can better align with consumer needs and expectations.

Speaker: Rick Nadeau, president, Quorus Consulting

Tune in for a live edition of AIA Canada’s vodcast, Curbside Chat, where we dive into the real issues shaping the auto care sector. Join industry professionals for candid conversations, insightful perspectives, and behind-the-scenes stories that drive the future of the automotive aftermarket.

Host: Lorraine Sommerfeld

Panelists:
Mathew Growden, Independent Consultant
Bill Hanvey, president and CEO, Auto Care Association
Trevor Tennant, president, Piston Ring Service
Additional panelists to be announced

Join us as we explore the transformative shift in technology reshaping the automotive landscape. From connected and autonomous vehicles to AI-driven innovations and subscription services, Steve Greenfield, CEO at Automotive Ventures will delve into how these advancements are redefining the aftermarket sector. Discover key insights on how to adapt your strategies, embrace new opportunities, and stay ahead of the curve in this rapidly evolving market.

Speaker: Steve Greenfield, CEO, Automotive Ventures

Join David Coletto, founder and CEO of Abacus Data, one of Canada’s leading polling firms, as he teams up with AIA Canada’s vice president of government relations, Emily Holtby, to discuss the upcoming federal election. They will dive into the latest national polling numbers and explore their potential implications for Canada’s auto care industry. This session will provide valuable insights into the political landscape and help industry professionals understand the potential impact of the election on their businesses.

Moderator: Emily Holtby, vice president, government relations, AIA Canada

Speaker: David Colletto, founder and CEO, Abacus Data

Concurrent sessions will be offered consecutively, allowing attendees to choose two out of three sessions based on their track preference. 

 To be announced 

Concurrent sessions will be offered consecutively, allowing attendees to choose two out of three sessions based on their track preference.

The human element: Harnessing the power of human nature to drive better team productivity

In this session, Claudia Morgilo, training manager at The Collision Career Institute, will explore the psychology behind human motivation and productivity, identifying key barriers to sustained performance. Learn why building trust and fostering teamwork are crucial for high-performing teams, and how shaping a positive, human-centric workplace culture drives success. Claudia will also delve into the leader’s role in managing change, overcoming resistance, and reducing stress. Walk away with practical insights on how to create an environment that empowers both individuals and teams to thrive.

Speaker: Claudia Morgilo, training manager, The Collision Career Institute

Concurrent sessions will be offered consecutively, allowing attendees to choose two out of three sessions based on their track preference.

To be announced

Join Ryan Taylor, CEO of BodyShop Booster as he unveils three key ways artificial intelligence (AI) is already transforming the repair process. Whether you’re an auto body shop, insurance company, or supplier, you’ll discover how to leverage AI and these cutting-edge technologies to boost profits, minimize downtime, and enhance customer experiences. Experience AI in action with a live demonstration, showcasing how these technologies are revolutionizing repairs in real time. Walk away with practical strategies to elevate your business and maintain a competitive edge.

Speaker: Ryan Taylor, CEO, BodyShop Booster