OMVIC supports the future of Ontario’s motor vehicle sales industry at the Georgian College Auto Show

OMVIC recently participated in the 2026 Georgian College Auto Show, one of Canada’s largest student-run automotive events. Hosted by Georgian College’s Automotive Business School of Canada (ABSC), the event brought together educators, current and future registrants, industry leaders, and automotive enthusiasts from across Ontario. 

For OMVIC, this event was an opportunity to support the future of Ontario’s motor vehicle sales industry by engaging with the people and organizations helping to shape it. From students pursuing careers in automotive sales to dealers, educators, and industry stakeholders, the show provided a valuable forum for collaboration, education and relationship-building. 

Building the future workforce

A strong and professional industry begins with a well-prepared workforce. Throughout the event, OMVIC connected with students preparing to enter the industry. These conversations are an important part of helping future dealers and salespeople understand their responsibilities as incoming registrants to uphold consumer trust, ethical business practices, and industry professionalism. By engaging with those beginning their career, OMVIC helps reinforce the expectations that support a fair and trusted marketplace for both consumers and registrants. 

CEO Maureen Harquail and Chief Consumer Protection Officer Jeff Donnelly speak with a registrant at the OMVIC booth.

Strengthening industry partnerships

The Georgian College Auto Show also provided an opportunity for OMVIC leadership to connect with faculty members, elected officials, and industry associations. Strong relationships between regulators, educators and industry stakeholders help ensure OMVIC remains connected to the people, trends and issues shaping Ontario’s motor vehicle sales industry. By participating in industry events and maintaining strong stakeholder relationships, OMVIC fosters collaboration that contributes to a trusted marketplace, driven by a professional workforce. 

CEO Maureen Harquail welcomes Hon. Doug Downey, Member of Provincial Parliament, to the OMVIC booth.

Promoting trust in the marketplace

OMVIC’s presence at the event also provided an opportunity to educate consumers about common vehicle-buying red flags and the importance of purchasing from registered dealers and salespeople. Through interactive displays and educational activities, attendees learned how to identify risks such as misleading advertising and activity by illegal, unregistered sellers. When consumers understand the protections available to them and the value of choosing OMVIC registered businesses, compliant dealers and salespeople are better positioned to compete on a level playing field. 

OMVIC reminding consumers to “Look Twice. Buy Smart.”

OMVIC thanks Georgian College, the Automotive Business School of Canada and all participating stakeholders for helping make the event a success. By engaging with educators, current and future registrants, consumers and industry leaders, OMVIC continues to support a strong, professional and trusted motor vehicle sales industry in Ontario.