Canada is a nation on wheels and many Canadians are directly involved in putting people in the driver’s seat. Over one million new vehicles are purchased each year in Canada which makes the automotive industry the country’s largest employer. One in seven working Canadians is employed directly or indirectly in automotive-related positions.
In New Brunswick alone there are over 4000 people employed in new vehicle franchised dealerships!
It represents an excellent opportunity. It is a dynamic industry that is constantly changing to meet the needs of a high-tech society. It is also an industry that offers a wide variety of challenging, well-paying jobs for qualified, motivated people. There are many entry-level jobs in an auto or truck dealership, but no one gets “stuck” in these jobs. There are also many mid and senior level positions which may require formal education. Computers are prevalent throughout the dealership’s operations and almost every position will require computer training and/or skills. Regardless of where you start, your willingness to work and your skills, experience, education, and training are rewarded with better jobs and higher pay. How high you go and how much you earn in a franchised dealership are entirely up to you.
Where to start
The requirement for the many jobs available in franchised new vehicle dealerships may vary from dealer to dealer. But it goes almost without saying that the better prepared you are, the greater your chances of success. If you are in school, stay in school.
In today’s very competitive job market, nearly all employers can demand a high school diploma. Courses in automotive services are important, and so is a background in business, electronics, and mathematics or computer science.
A College diploma and/or University degree can be a definite advantage if sales or management positions are your goal. Ask your school’s guidance or carer counselor for help in planning a curriculum that best suits your needs. Your local dealer may be an excellent source of information on training programs and job requirements.
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