Automotive Parts and Service Operations is the perfect program to help you fill the need for trained support staff within the backbone of the auto industry — whether you're launching your first career, a new career, or want to round out your automotive education and skill base with an emphasis on operational management support.

The School of Transportation has worked closely with industry partners to create a program that will position you as a top candidate in an underrepresented area of the industry, even if you have no previous experience. The result is the first post-secondary program in Canada that will give you the knowledge and practical expertise of parts service, warranty administration, customer relations and business operations through hands-on training.

Automotive Parts and Service Operations has the full support of the Trillium Automobile Dealers Association (TADA), which represents more than 1,000 new car dealers in Ontario. As such, the program is an excellent choice if you're just finishing high school or are a graduate of the Automotive Foundations or Techniques programs. Mature students and automotive technicians will also find this program an excellent pathway to a new career or a career change within the industry.

Companies Offering Jobs

Graduates will be prepared to work at entry-level and junior-level positions within the wider transportation industry including dealerships and aftermarket industries.

Program Highlights

“A breadth of knowledge …

This program includes introductory business courses and automotive-specific courses that will expose you to many different aspects of the transportation industry from automotive to motorcycle, truck & coach, and heavy-duty operations. [Link to Program Outline Courses]

We want you to succeed. To help you do so, we’ve included an optional summer co-op work term between 1st and 2nd years as part of the Automotive Parts and Service Operations program. A co-op is an excellent way to gain valuable exposure to a real work environment and provide you with the opportunity to showcase your knowledge, enthusiasm and work ethic to potential employers. For more information about co-op at Centennial, please visit Co-op Programs. [Link to co-op programs]

… will open many doors.”

You will learn a variety of important skills including basics in marketing, communication, merchandising, micro and macro-economics, and industry trends that will set you apart in the job market. Don’t worry if you have no experience; we will help you grow from the ground up!

 “What do I have when I’m done?”

“Credentials plus skill …

In 2 years, you will have earned a unique, industry-recognized diploma that will qualify you to begin your new career or direction. You will have a broad knowledge base and credentials that will position you for immediate employment within the automotive sector.

… equals success.”

You will have the knowledge, credentials, and confidence to step into a support role in the transportation industry and make an impression. Your career starts here!

Career Outlook

• Service Consultant Advisor/ Customer Relations Representative
• Warranty Administrator
• Control Tower
• Service Coordinator / Service Scheduler / Customer Retention
• Parts Advisor – retail / wholesale
• Parts Wholesale Representative
• Inventory Control
• Shipper-Receiver
• Aftersales departments Assistant Manager in training

Education Pathways

Successful graduates of this Automotive Parts and Service Operations Diploma program have the opportunity to apply their credits toward further study. Listed below are programs from partnering institutions that are available for this program.