Welcome To NS Auto Sector Council - Applying For The Program Manager, Youth and Industry Engagement Position

About the Automotive Sector Council

The Automotive Sector Council is a not-for-profit organization dedicated to workforce development within Nova Scotia’s automotive industry. From technicians to service advisors and administrative roles, ASC supports employers and employees through innovative, strategic practices.

Position Summary

The Program Manager, Youth and Industry Engagement (Program Manager) connects high school students with career pathways in the Nova Scotia Automotive Service and Repair Industry. By leading the TestDrive program, the Program Manager will create opportunities for career awareness, exploration, and apprenticeship pathways in the automotive sector. This program includes classroom presentations, field trips, safety training, paid work placements, and mentorship initiatives.

The ideal candidate is a dynamic communicator skilled in youth engagement, stakeholder collaboration, and employer advocacy. This individual will be results-driven, capable of managing complex programs, and passionate about addressing critical labour shortages by connecting youth to meaningful career opportunities.

Key Responsibilities

1. Stakeholder Collaboration

  • Build and maintain collaborative relationships with educators, employers, government agencies, community organizations, and industry partners.
  • Act as the primary liaison with program partners, including the NS Department of Labour, Skills and Immigration (Youth and Equity), the Department of Education and Early Childhood Development, and the Nova Scotia Community College.
  • Work closely with the Community Engagement Coordinator to increase diversity in the TestDrive program.
  • Develop and implement stakeholder engagement plans to ensure program success and sustainability.
  • Ensure TestDrive LSI reporting requirements are met and recommend ASC members for TestDrive Governance and Operations Committees.

2. Youth Engagement

  • Deliver engaging, audience-specific presentations to high school students, teachers, and guidance counsellors, inspiring interest in career opportunities within the automotive industry.
  • Mentor youth by providing career guidance and facilitating access to resources and opportunities in motive power trades.
  • Coordinate field trips, safety training, and workplace orientation sessions to help students transition smoothly into their placements.

3. Employer Advocacy

  • Advocate for youth by effectively communicating the value of student placements to industry employers.
  • Build relationships with employers to increase mentorship capacity and foster participation in the program.
  • Demonstrate the benefits of hiring youth as a solution to labour shortages and future workforce development.

4. Program Management

  • Plan, execute, and evaluate the TestDrive program, ensuring all components are delivered on time and meet quality standards.
  • Manage program budgets, including expense approvals, reporting, and reconciliation.
  • Develop reports to track program outcomes, including student placements, employer engagement, and safety training completion.

5. Organizational Support

  • Work collaboratively with the Automotive Sector Council team to align messaging and support broader organizational goals.
  • As needed, contribute to strategic discussions, marketing efforts, and other Automotive Sector Council initiatives.

Qualifications and Competencies

Education and Experience

  • Bachelor’s degree in Education, Social Work, Business Management, Public Relations, Organizational Management, or a related field. Equivalent training and experience will be considered.
  • Minimum of one (1) year of project management experience, preferably in a multi-stakeholder environment.
  • Experience working with youth or within the automotive industry is an asset.

Skills and Abilities

  • Proven ability to foster relationships with diverse stakeholders, including employers, educators, and community partners.
  • Strong interpersonal skills, with demonstrated success in engaging and motivating youth.
  • Dynamic public speaking and facilitation skills, capable of tailoring presentations to different audiences.
  • Exceptional organizational and time management skills, able to manage multiple priorities effectively.
  • Persuasive communication skills, with the ability to advocate and build buy-in from employers and industry leaders.
  • Proficiency in Google Workspace Suite and other digital communication and program management tools.
  • Analytical and strategic thinking skills, with the ability to evaluate program outcomes and recommend improvements.

Additional Requirements

  • Travel within Nova Scotia is required.
  • Availability to work occasional evenings or weekends to meet program needs.
  • Valid driver’s license and access to reliable transportation.
  • Vulnerable sector and criminal record checks are required

What We Offer

  • Opportunity to make a meaningful impact by connecting youth with career pathways in a growing industry.
  • A collaborative and supportive team environment.
  • Competitive salary and benefits package.

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