Motorama showcases cars, opportunities for incoming techs

A student’s question about electric vehicles and job security set the tone for a discussion on the future of automotive careers at the recent Motorama Custom Car & Motorsports Expo.

The Automotive Education Panel, presented in association with Conestoga College, brought together instructors, industry trainers and motorsports personalities to speak with students and young technicians about working in the trade.

The panel formed part of a wider slate of forums and attractions at Motorama, which is billed as Canada’s largest custom car and motorsports show. The 11th edition of the expo took place March 13-15 at The International Centre in Toronto.

Motorama features custom and performance vehicles, racing series, car clubs, tracks, race teams and vendors. The show includes first-time-shown cars, exhibits, press conferences, awards presentations, celebrity appearances and educational sessions. Organizers describe the event as a celebration of automotive and racing culture and a kick-off to Canada’s car show and racing seasons.

During the education panel, one student said his parents were urging him not to become a mechanic because they believed electric vehicles (EVs) are the future and do not need maintenance. Panellists responded that EVs still require regular service and that technicians will remain essential as vehicle technology changes.

They noted that EVs still contain fluids and components such as cables and 12-volt batteries that can cause problems if they are not checked. Traditional systems such as brakes, suspension, steering and chassis parts will also continue to need repair and inspection on EVs.

“No technology is going to replace technicians,” one panellist told the audience, adding that EVs expand the knowledge required in the field rather than removing the need for workers. Along with mechanical systems, modern technicians are now expected to handle complex diagnostics and high-voltage systems.

The panel also noted that ICE vehicles are expected to remain in service for many years, even as EV adoption increases. As a result, they said, today’s technicians are adding new skills related to electrification on top of the skills needed to service gasoline and diesel vehicles.

The discussion also explored how the industry can attract and retain young people in the automotive service trade.

Panellists urged employers to keep young workers engaged by giving them meaningful tasks related to vehicle repair and diagnostics, under supervision, rather than relying on them only for shop clean-up. They said early, hands-on experience can help maintain interest and build confidence.

One speaker encouraged students to consider starting their careers at smaller, family-run repair shops. These workplaces, they said, are often more likely to invest time in training, mentorship and long-term development, and may offer closer relationships between owners, senior technicians and apprentices.

The role of teachers and college instructors was also highlighted. Educators from Conestoga College and other training organizations on the panel said their work goes beyond classroom lessons. They described their role as helping students understand career paths, develop professional habits and stay motivated as they move into apprenticeships and full-time jobs.

Panellists also emphasized the transferable nature of skills learned in the trade. Diagnostic thinking, problem-solving and mechanical know-how were cited as abilities that can be used both on the job and at home. One panellist gave the example of repairing a household dishwasher without calling a service technician.

Custom Car & Motorsports Expo 2026