The Canada Equipment Dealers Foundation (CEDF) plays a pivotal role in supporting the professional development of technicians through training and scholarship programs.
Since its establishment in 1998, the Foundation has raised over $3 million for technical training at Canadian colleges, significantly contributing to the industry’s ongoing challenge of finding qualified personnel.
The Foundation’s roots originated from a conversation during a meeting of the former Canada West Equipment Dealers Association (CWEDA), where a board member highlighted the industry’s struggle to find qualified mechanics, thus leading to the formation of the CEDF. This initiative aimed to tackle a growing concern within the equipment industry—the need for specialized technician training.
Keeping Pace with Technical Advancements
As technology rapidly evolves in the equipment industry, technicians must continuously upgrade their skills. Additional training is also essential for individuals hired from foreign countries, who transition to Canada to work as technicians. The CEDF scholarship program has supported over 2,200 technicians, parts technicians, and salespeople, allowing them to focus on their education without added financial stress, therefore opening doors for future career growth.
Service Technician Skills/Knowledge Test
To help dealers assess the abilities of current and potential employees, the Service Technician Skills/Knowledge Test is a valuable tool. This online assessment covers various topics including: General Shop Knowledge, Tools and Safety, Engine Basics, Engine Troubleshooting/Tune-Up, Power Trains/ Drivelines, Electrical Principles, Electrical Circuits and Schematics, Hydraulics, Diesel Engines, and, Air Conditioning Systems.
Dealers have found this test to be both an efficient and cost-effective tool for evaluating current and potential employees. It helps recognize high-performing technicians and is offered in multiple languages via hard copy to accommodate diverse backgrounds, including French, German, Spanish, Ukrainian, Polish, Afrikaans, Soto and Zulu.
Administered online, the test can be taken at a schedule and location that best meets the individuals needs. Enrollment is a simple process and is available at: https://www.naeda.com/ service-technician-test/. Results are readily available to team managers and provide detailed insights into a participant’s expertise and skills gaps. The test is free for NAEDA members.
Since its inception, the Foundation has provided over $1.3 million to dealership employees, helping them stay current with evolving technology—a key factor in maintaining a competitive edge in the industry.
The CEDF’s Impact on Dealers and Employees
Beyond individual scholarships, the CEDF’s investment in dealership employee training fosters loyalty and long-term success for dealers. The Foundation has raised funds at annual events with the goal of creating a $1 million endowment fund to support future initiatives. Since its inception, the Foundation has provided over $1.3 million to dealership employees, helping them stay current with evolving technology—a key factor in maintaining a competitive edge in the industry.
Annual CEDF Golf Tournaments
The CEDF hosts three annual golf tournaments – Alberta, Manitoba and Saskatchewan – to raise funds for the CEDF and the scholarship program. These events generate approximately $30,000 annually, supporting the development of dealership employees. These tournaments offer dealers a chance to show appreciation to their employees with a day on the links, while contributing to the Foundation’s mission.
These annual tournaments wouldn’t be successful without our valued sponsors. Their support of the association, CEDF, NAEDA, and its dealer/members cannot be overstated.
Mark these dates for the 2025 CEDF Golf Tournaments, and stay tuned for more information this spring:
• Thursday, June 12th – Bridges Golf Course, Starbuck, Manitoba
• Tuesday, June 17th – Alberta Springs Golf Course, Red Deer, Alberta
• Tuesday, June 24th – Harbor Golf Club, Elbow, Saskatchewan
Grandpa’s Farm Colouring Book
Another project funded by the CEDF is Grandpa’s Farm Colouring Book. To date, NAEDA dealer members have received over 300,000 colouring books to distribute to their farmer customers to promote the value of a technician to a farmer’s operations. This is a great addition to have on hand at the dealership for young visitors, or during dealer days. The colouring books are free to NAEDA members, all you pay is shipping!
CEDF scholarships are designed to encourage and support the next generation of skilled professionals who will be essential in maintaining and advancing the agricultural equipment sector.
Supporting the Future of the Equipment Industry
The CEDF scholarship is not just a resource for employees, but also a strategic advantage for dealers. The CEDF scholarship program provides a platform for dealers to invest in their employees’ training through the CEDF’s matching scholarship program for dealer’s employees. This not only ensures that a dealer’s business remains competitive, but also contributes to the overall growth and success of the equipment industry.
For many dealership employees, the CEDF scholarship program has made a significant difference in their careers, offering financial support and the opportunity for continuous professional development.
Every Donation Counts
To sustain the Foundation’s efforts, donations are always welcome. We encourage you to support the CEDF and ensure that future technicians continue to receive the training they need. Contributions to the Foundation can be made in various ways, including through private-label scholarships, life insurance programs, or general donations. All donations are eligible for tax receipts, and every contribution helps sustain the equipment industry’s future.
For more information on donating to the CEDF, visit the CEDF website.
JOANNE OLSON is managing editor of publications for the North American Equipment Dealers Association, and manages the Canadian office in Calgary, Alberta.
