Barrie show gives students inside track to careers

Ron Loveys

TADA PRESIDENT

Next weekend marks Georgian College's 24th-annual outdoor auto show, presented by the Canadian Automotive Institute, or CAI, in Barrie.

What makes this event unique is that the entire show is produced by CAI students (roughly 200 this year). It provides them with an opportunity to work with industry players and to showcase their budding skills and talents.

A five-person committee is formed to oversee planning and organization of the show. Key areas of responsibility include media relations, community events, sponsorship, finance, physical resources and industry liaison.

Most major automobile manufacturers are scheduled to take part, which is a credit to the show's reputation and the hard work on behalf of the students.

All first-year students are assigned to teams and serve as captains and "product ambassadors" in a sales-free environment. Product ambassadors are not permitted to sell vehicles – they provide information.

Students get product training from manufacturers so they can answer questions and discuss features/accessories.

If visitors want to buy a vehicle or discuss finance options, they'll have to contact their local dealer.

For many students, this hands-on experience serves as a valuable gateway into a career in the auto industry. They're introduced to industry representatives from sales, marketing, management and corporate sides of the business.

I've known many CAI students who have made contacts at the auto show – contacts that have lead to securing job offers and co-op placements.

The Georgian Outdoor Auto Show is the largest of its kind in North America and draws 20,000 visitors, mostly from across central and southern Ontario. The theme for this year's show is "Captivate, Advocate and Innovate."

The lineup of attractions is spectacular. Back by popular demand is the Porsche Autocross Experience, sponsored by Pfaff Porsche and Active Green and Ross. A specially designed race circuit will be installed on site, offering visitors a chance to experience the thrill of driving a Porsche.

If you enjoy classic cars, you'll not want to miss the expanded Classic Car Competition. Vintage automobiles are always a crowd favourite.

The Wasaga Beach Corvette Club will assemble a collection of award-winning Corvettes, dating from the early 1950s to the present. Club members will be on hand to discuss the evolution of the car.

For children, there's a KidZone play area, with clowns and an inflatable gym, and it's all supervised by Georgian College's Early Childhood Development program.

Iconic motorcycle manufacturer Harley-Davidson will make its auto show debut, featuring a collection of classic, brand new Harley-Davidson motorcycles, accessories and attire.

Another first is the appearance of Super Heavyweight kick boxer and mixed martial artist, Gary "Big Daddy" Goodridge, UFC and Pride Fighting champion, who will be signing autographs.

Country music star Jason McCoy of The Road Hammers will also provide live entertainment. On Sunday, automobile memorabilia will be offered for sale at a live auction, with proceeds going toward scholarships for students at the CAI.

Of course, no auto show would be complete without a stellar lineup of shiny new vehicles, and this year's show is no exception.

More than 20 auto manufacturers are presenting vehicles this year. Approximately 200 2010 model sedans, coupes, convertibles, crossovers, pickups and luxury vehicles will on site for viewing.

CAI students pour their hearts and souls into this annual event, and they should be commended for doing such an outstanding job.

This event that appeals to car lovers of all ages, and I encourage everyone to check it out.

The Georgian Auto Show runs Sept. 25-27 (rain or shine) at Georgian College in Barrie. For more information, call 705-722-5161 or visit georgianc.on.ca/autoshow09.

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