Students drive success of 2026 Georgian College Auto Show

June 8, 2026

The 2026 Georgian College Auto Show wrapped up another successful year at the Barrie Campus, bringing together students, industry partners, automotive enthusiasts, families and community members for three exciting days of hands-on fun, innovation and student leadership.

Now in its 38th year, the Georgian College Auto Show continues to be a signature event for the Automotive Business School of Canada (ABSC) at Georgian College. Organized entirely by ABSC students, the show gives students a rare opportunity to apply their learning in a real-world setting while welcoming guests to experience the future of the automotive industry with the support of faculty and employees, and the continued participation of manufacturers, sponsors, vendors, alumni and community partners.

This year’s theme, Beyond the Wheel, invited attendees to explore the people, technology and partnerships shaping the future of mobility. Guests had the opportunity to connect with major automotive brands, take part in test drive experiences, enjoy the drift track, visit local vendors and take in family-friendly activities throughout the weekend.

For student leaders, the show is more than an event. It is an opportunity to build confidence, develop industry connections and gain practical experience in event management, marketing and communications, sponsorship, operations and customer experience.

The Georgian College Auto Show continues to be one of the college’s most visible examples of career-focused, experience-driven education, giving students the chance to learn by doing while creating a memorable experience for the broader community.

Quotes:

“Ontario’s auto sector relies on a strong pipeline of highly skilled workers from our world-class colleges and universities.  At the Georgian College Auto Show, it was clear that pipeline is strong and ready to continue cementing Ontario is a global leader in automotive innovation and manufacturing for decades to come.”

–            The Honourable Nolan Quinn, Minister of Colleges, Universities, Research Excellence and Security

“The Georgian College Auto Show is a wonderful example of how students can apply their in-classroom learning to real life settings. This event showcases the talent of the students in our local community and highlights the quality of their education. It also serves as a bridge into real careers as they connect with potential future employers and industry experts who attend this event annually.”

–            Doug Downey, MPP for Barrie – Springwater – Oro-Medonte

“Year after year, the Georgian College Auto Show demonstrates the power of hands-on learning and the talent of our students. This event reflects so much of what makes Georgian special. It brings together education, industry and community while giving students the opportunity to lead a major public event that helps prepare them for meaningful careers.”

–            Kevin Weaver, President and CEO, Georgian College

“The Georgian College Auto Show is such a meaningful experience for students because we get to take everything we’ve learned and bring it to life. Seeing the campus filled with guests, industry partners and families was incredibly rewarding.”

–             Amanda Caldeira, ABSC student and Director, Marketing and Media Relations, 2026 Georgian College Auto Show