CARSTAR proudly awarded the first CARSTAR Academy Scholarship to Centennial College autobody student, Hekmatull Ahahmadi. The event was hosted at CARSTAR Toronto Millwick, owned by Ralph Andreacchi.

The CARSTAR Academy Scholarship Program, launched by CARSTAR’s Corporate Office, is part of a nationwide effort to inspire young people to explore careers in the skilled trades, particularly within the collision repair industry. The initiative began earlier this year with CARSTAR Days held at colleges across Canada, where CARSTAR introduced autobody students to the industry, a clear career path, and the growing demand for skilled technicians. Now in the second phase, the program is recognizing outstanding student achievement through the CARSTAR Academy Scholarship Awards. CARSTAR will honour eight exceptional students from four partner institutions; Centennial College, Algonquin College, Fanshawe College, and Mohawk College, highlighting those who demonstrate mastery, dedication, and a clear passion for the craft.

On Wednesday, November 17, Ahahmadi, a standout final-year student from Centennial College, was celebrated for his remarkable technical abilities, strong work ethic, and genuine enthusiasm for the autobody field. He was awarded a $1,500 scholarship along with a Milwaukee Toolkit valued at $530, providing him with professional tools as he prepares to launch his career. Following the award presentation, the CARSTAR Toronto Millwick team provided Ahahmadi with a full shop tour, offering a firsthand look at CARSTAR’s repair processes. He also had the opportunity to connect with a recent Centennial College graduate now working at the location, giving him insight into the career path ahead. “Hosting Hekmatull at our facility was a real honour,” said Ralph Andreacchi, owner of CARSTAR Toronto Millwick. “Seeing his enthusiasm as we toured the shop reminded all of us why investing in the next generation matters. He’s exactly the kind of driven, talented technician our industry needs, and we’re proud to play a small part in his journey.”

“We are thrilled to see the very first CARSTAR Academy Scholarship awarded,” said Collin Welsh, Senior Director, CARSTAR Canada. “Programs like this strengthen our industry by encouraging dedicated students to pursue meaningful, long-lasting careers. Hekmatull represents exactly the kind of motivated, focused talent we aim to support.”

The CARSTAR Academy team looks forward to recognizing the remaining scholarship recipients and continuing to invest in future technicians who will shape the industry for years to come.