Who We Are

Our Heritage

The year was 1939, and the automobile was still in its early days. It was somewhere
between being a novelty and a staple when some forward-thinking leaders in the automotive
industry started noticing a trend. They saw that cars were picking up speed, becoming an
integral part of modern life and that soon nearly everyone would own one.

With increased ownership comes an aftermarket, and the founders of AARO saw the need for an association that would join together independent businesses across Ontario to promote professional quality automotive service and provide a network of support for its members.
The Automotive Aftermarket Repair Organization of Canada is a not-for-profit association, and we welcome independent businesses engaged in the automotive service industry, as well as their associate members and suppliers. We’ve created a robust network over the decades, proudly supporting them even up to the level of the provincial government, where we advocate on their behalf.

The automobile has come a long way since 1939 and we’ve been in the passenger seat, along for the ride as the industry grows and changes every year. And still… there’s so much road to travel.

Our Pledge

For a long time, it was tradition for prospective members to take the pledge as part of their official bid. Though we’ve bypassed the membership pledge in recent years, it still remains an integral part of our history and heritage.

As a member of the Automotive
Automotive Aftermarket Repair Organization of Canada (AARO):

Our Mission

The leading advocate for independent automotive service professionals.

We are an action-oriented not-for-profit association passionate about uniting the independent automotive aftermarket to address industry challenges. We are a solutions-based organization resolving current and emerging issues affecting our profession. We are the resource for industry information and training, consumer education, and your representation in government relations.

Our Leaders

Our board members are the driving force behind everything we do. They’re the movers and
shakers on your behalf, and we value their service and expertise.

Steve Gushie

Chair

Bruce Eccles

Vice Chair

Jeffrey Newhouse

Treasurer/Director

Eric Mileham

Past Chair

Rudy Graf

Director

Ju Chen

Director

Ken Coulter

Director

Darryl Croft

Director

Mark Lemay

Director

Adam Malik

Director

Leroy Martin

Director

Elizabeth Tait

Director

Patty Kettles

Executive Director

John Cochrane

Senior Advisor