As students attending post-secondary institutions begin a new school year, there is no question it will be unlike any they have experienced before, because of the COVID-19 pandemic. However, one aspect that will not change is the level of support being provided by the New Car Dealers Association of BC to students who are pursuing a career in the automotive sector.
In addition to awards established with post-secondary schools, including Georgian College, Okanagan College, Vancouver Island University, and Coast Mountain College, support comes in the form of $10,000 in funds that are distributed via CarCareerBC and a further $55,000 in award funding that comes from interest income from an endowment fund set up through generous donations by BCs New Car Dealers, as well as fundraisers organized through the New Car Dealers Foundation of BC. And thanks to Foundation partners, Adesa Auctions and First Canadian, an additional $30,000 was raised for awards and scholarships to provide to students.
For those contemplating a career choice, imagine a job in a stable, growing industry where you get to meet new people and help them find a product that will both improve and enrich their quality of life for years to come.
There is no doubt the last several months have been tremendously challenging for many sectors, including ours. However, for those who may take pause, consider the latest report from Desrosiers Automotive that shows new light vehicle sales in August are estimated to be down only 8.9% compared to August 2019 levels, a much better result than we have seen in recent months, and one that presents reason for optimism.
The New Car Dealers Association of BC (NCDA) represents more than 390 new car dealers that employ some 30,000 people in family supporting jobs in over 50 communities across this province. The industry also offers many opportunities for growth and career advancement. Our members are guided by industry training programs, as well as programs offered through educational organizations, to provide training for new workers.
Whether you’re just starting your career, or looking for a change, a job at a new car dealership can be both personally and financially rewarding. Dealership opportunities range from sales consultants, service technicians to accountants, marketing and administration staff – whom all share a love for engaging with people, and of course, an enthusiasm for new cars and trucks. With a wave of retirements coming in the next few years, this is a rewarding industry to consider for a career!
However, working at a new car dealer is about more than just money and career advancement. Our members and their employees are actively involved in their local communities. This includes a wide range of local charities and sports groups as well as community and service clubs, charity boards and committees. In fact, many of our members sponsor charities and organizations through cash donations and merchandise prizes.
Through our collective efforts, I have no doubt that auto companies will emerge from this experience with a renewed outlook along with a complement of enthusiastic young leaders to help carry us into the future.
Blair Qualey is President and CEO of the New Car Dealers Association of BC. You can email him at [email protected]
