Canadian Automotive Institute Gets Computer Upgrade

Canadian Automotive Institute at Georgian College, Barrie, Ont., has received $85,000 worth of computer software and hardware to bolster its automobile dealership management education programs.
"As the leader of professional development in the Canadian automotive retail industry, it is the responsibility of the Canadian Automotive Institute (CAI) to provide its students with industry-leading technology and retail solutions. Reynolds and Reynolds enables the CAI to do just that," said Marie-Noelle Bonicalzi, dean of the CAI, in describing the continued partnership between Reynolds and Reynolds (Canada) Ltd. and the CAI.
As part of their on-going partnership, Reynolds recently furnished and installed new automotive retailing software and hardware components at the Barrie Campus of the Canadian Automotive Institute at Georgian College.
The new components provide each CAI student the ability to manage his or her own simulated auto dealership, and are over and above the computer hardware and software previously provided to the CAI by Reynolds.
"Thanks to the support we’ve received over the past 10 years, the CAI has been able to expand its programs, offer additional scholarships for graduating students, and continue its leadership in professional development," said Bonicalzi. "This is a great example of two leaders working together for the betterment of the industry."
As part of its upgrade to the CAI dealership management lab, Reynolds Canada provided the latest version of its industry-leading retail management system, allowing students to be trained in all facets of the dealership, including accounting, parts, service, finance and insurance, and sales. Also included is all of the hardware necessary to enable multiple-user access.
"Reynolds Canada is pleased to be an education advantage partner with Georgian College and the Canadian Automotive Institute," said Pierre Blais, vice president and general manager of Reynolds Canada. "Our partnership and Reynolds’ investment in student education are helping to ensure the future of the auto industry. By providing these students with the latest technologies, we are providing them with the tools necessary to forge ahead in an ever-changing and challenging auto retail market."
Founded in 1985, the Canadian Automotive Institute (CAI) has continued its mandate to provide the automotive industry with business professionals capable of taking a leadership role within this challenging and competitive environment. This initiative was undertaken in co-operation with the Canadian automotive industry, including associations, corporate manufacturers, retailers and aftermarket sectors.
The Automotive Marketing program is the only one of its kind in Canada. This fall, Georgian College will offer its first applied degree, a Bachelor of Applied Business Automotive Management. For more information on the CAI, visit www.thecai.on.ca/.