CARSTAR Canada, North America’s leader in collision repair partnered with the MLSE Foundation and their Launchpad program in hosting a collision repair introductory workshop on August 20, presenting to 20 students from the Leaders in Training (LIT).  

Each year, MLSE Foundation’s Launchpad hosts 20 participants aged 15 to 18 years old for an eight-week program introducing them to various career opportunities. By the end of the program, attendees leave with enhanced work readiness, strengthened leadership skills, and employment training across varying industries.  

Presenters from the CARSTAR team included Oghogho Oteju, Senior Marketing Manager; Stephen Mohanathasan, Area Manager in Ontario; Collin Welsh, Zone Director for Ontario; and Al Moledina, a Franchise Owner and General Manager at CARSTAR Mississauga North. The team provided a comprehensive overview of CARSTAR history, facilities, services, career opportunities, and the essential skills needed to succeed in the collision repair industry. The workshop concluded with a live demonstration from Al Moledina and his team, allowing students to try their hand at some collision repair techniques. 

Investing in the next generation 

“At CARSTAR, we believe that investing in the next generation is crucial for the future of our industry,” said Collin Welsh, Ontario Sr. Zone Director, CARSTAR. “By providing hands-on experience and industry insights to today’s youth, we’re not only preparing them for future careers but also fostering their growth as leaders and innovators in the collision repair field.”   

CARSTAR is focused on its commitment to community empowerment, advancing the industry, and creating lasting, positive impacts. To uphold this commitment the team continues to prioritize youth engagement in the industry through initiatives like Skills Canada participation, engaging in career fairs, and leveraging its partnerships like with the MLSE Foundation, to build a sustainable pipeline of future repairers. 

For more information on CARSTAR visit CARSTAR.ca.