From the intricacies of individual parts to the seamless integration of complex systems, the modern automobile is a testament to human ingenuity. However, with these advancements comes the need for continuous learning and training, particularly for those who are charged with keeping this technology rolling.

Yash knows this journey well, having embarked on it himself. However, Yash’s path to automotive expertise wasn’t without its challenges. Upon arriving in New Brunswick in 2019, he encountered a less-than-welcoming reception compared to the environment he would later find in Ontario. Despite his extensive experience and background in the field, Yash faced discrimination, with some shops showing a preference for inexperienced white mechanics over someone like him with a deep automotive background. “After a long search for work,” Yash recalls, “I ended up working for one of the largest Nissan dealerships in the province. The work was good, but I never really felt welcomed.”

Fortunately, Yash’s sister, a registered nurse in Hamilton, provided him with an opportunity for a fresh start. Packing up and driving to Ontario, Yash found solace in a more inclusive and welcoming environment. Yash’s journey is marked by resilience and determination, traits instilled in him from his upbringing. Raised in a household dominated by medical professionals—parents, grandparents, sister, and wife—all immersed in the world of healthcare, Yash found himself navigating unfamiliar territory when it came to dinner table discussions.

“Of course, Yash knows a thing or two about swimming against the current,” remarks a colleague. “Growing up in a household of doctors, technically minded Yash is at a disadvantage when it comes to dinner table talk.”

In India, Yash honed his skills as an automotive engineer, designing the internal systems while starting out in a local garage with minimal resources. He reminisces, “Back in India, I used to work in a local garage with less tools. No power tools at all, so that was my first job. Anything after that, if I have the proper tools and a shop like Halton Honda I can do anything!”

“My background was an engineer. The EV vehicles on the road today, I was designing systems like that back in India. I know watts, amperage, battery health, capacities, charging systems, even the materials I used for build quality, tensile strength… So, a couple of years from now, if we just sold EV or Hybrid cars, I won’t be worried about it.”

Yash would also like to thank his co-workers for helping him with his apprenticeship. “Brandy, Specky (Gary), Seth, Dave and especially Dom (Service Manager). Whenever I need something he’s always there to help.”

When asked about Yash, Domenic says “We actually started on the same day! Since then, I’ve found Yash to be very motivated, a hard worker and I think he’ll be very good tech. Congratulations on earning your license, Yash. It’s a great achievement!”

Yash’s journey serves as a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the importance of creating inclusive spaces within all industries.

Congratulations Yash!