Wow! Ford Canada Donates EV to WICC’s Auto Mechanic Program
by Julie Liebman
There was a special delivery for WICC at the beginning of the month. A brand new 2021 Ford Mustang Mach-E was donated to the centre! The donated car will be used to train students in the general auto and electric automobile programs. The vehicle, which is valued at $30,000, was made possible by the tireless work of dedicated auto mechanic teacher, Bernard Duchesneau.
“We are extremely grateful to our valued partner Ford of Canada for this generous donation, which gives our students valuable hands-on learning with state-of-the-art automotive technology. This support strengthens our Auto Mechanic and EV mechanic programs where we train highly qualified and specialized mechanics. I am hopeful this is the beginning of a long-lasting partnership with Ford of Canada,” says Bernard Duchesneau, auto mechanic teacher at WICC.
This is the first vehicle donation WICC has received through Ford’s ACE Program, which aims to raise awareness and interest in automotive careers, via donated vehicles and components, hands-on training and online course modules for future service technicians.
The West Island Career Centre’s Automobile Mechanics program is one of the most hands-on in Montreal, combining shop training at the Centre with real-world placements in dealerships and garages. About 150 students register in the program per year and about 40 students are registered in the EV program which was established in 2022.
“The West Island Career Centre extends its deepest thanks to Ford of Canada for their generous support! Their donation will empower our students by giving them the opportunity learn from a modern electric vehicle, giving them hands-on experience and preparing them to join the next generation of mechanics,” says Jad Deegan WICC Centre Director.
“Ford of Canada, together with West Island Ford Lincoln’s recent electric vehicle donation to Lester B. Pearson’s West Island Career Centre marks an investment in the future of automotive education and the continuing development of a skilled workforce”, says David Shuttleworth, Technical Training Manager at Ford Canada.
“As the industry accelerates toward electrification, continued exposure and hands-on access to advanced EV technology is essential. This donation enables students to engage with crucial components such as electric motors, battery systems, and sophisticated software, developing the diagnostic and repair expertise needed for next-generation mobility. By mastering these skills today, graduates will be equipped to lead in an electrified future tomorrow.”
A big thank you to Ford Canada for their generous donation which will be used by our students for many years to come!
