Vast-Auto Distribution Academy: Nearly Two Decades of Training Excellence

Since 2006, the Vast-Auto Distribution Academy has been shaping the future of its members through a strong commitment to training. That was the year Antoine Janisse joined Vast-Auto Distribution / O’Reilly Auto Parts to develop the management training program, laying the foundation for what would become a benchmark in the automotive aftermarket industry.

Two years later, in 2008, Wilson Almeida joined the team to lead the technical training division. Under his leadership, the Academy significantly expanded its training offerings through strategic partnerships with several vocational training centres (CFPs) and automotive parity committees, including those in Montreal, Quebec City–Lévis, Saguenay, Lanaudière–Laurentides, and Sherbrooke. These efforts help align both technical and management training with the realities of the industry while preparing the next generation of automotive professionals.

Partnerships Driving Innovation

The Academy also became the first aftermarket training centre to establish a collaborative training plan with the EV Competency Program (PCVE) and PCVE+ (in partnership with INNOVISTE), further strengthening its leadership in electric and hybrid vehicle training. In addition, the Academy maintains a close partnership with The Car Show with Lisa Christensen on CJAD 800.

A Growing Training Offering

Today, the Vast-Auto Distribution Academy offers both management and technical training in French and English, meeting the needs of members across Ontario, Quebec, and the Maritime provinces. This bilingual, interprovincial reach reflects the breadth of the network served by the Academy.

In 2025, the Academy expanded its team of instructors with the addition of Jason Gosselin as Technical Trainer for the province of Quebec. His arrival further strengthens the Academy’s ability to meet the growing demand for specialized technical training in an industry where automotive technologies continue to evolve rapidly.

A Trusted Resource for Members

Thanks to its solid foundation and outstanding reputation built over the years, the Vast-Auto Distribution Academy continues to play a key role in developing both the management and technical skills of its members, contributing to the long-term growth and profitability of the network it serves.

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