Jake McKie of Kenora, Ontario, has been named the 2026 Canadian Technician of the Year by Auto Value following the company’s annual technician competition held in Detroit in July.
McKie, shop foreman at Shane’s Northern Tire and Auto, an Auto Value Certified Service Center and customer of Piston Ring Service Supply, earned the top Canadian honour after competing against technicians from across the country and North America.
“Winning the 2026 Canadian Technician of the Year title is a milestone I’ll always remember,” McKie said. “Competing with so many talented technicians from across North America was both inspiring and rewarding.”
Three Canadian finalists travelled to Detroit to compete alongside 10 U.S. finalists. Sponsored by DRiV and Garage Gurus, the competition featured a custom Automotive Service Excellence examination and a series of hands-on technical challenges designed to test diagnostic, repair and problem-solving skills.
“With more than 4,000 Certified Service Centers throughout the Auto Value network, becoming a Technician of the Year finalist is an impressive accomplishment,” said John C. Washbish, president and CEO of the Aftermarket Auto Parts Alliance. “This program exists to recognize the exceptional talent within our industry, celebrate the skilled trades and highlight the expertise required to succeed as a professional technician.”
In addition to the competition, participants took part in networking events and visits to automotive attractions throughout the Detroit area, providing opportunities to connect with fellow technicians and industry leaders.
DRiV and Garage Gurus have served as host sponsors of the Technician of the Year program since 2018.
“Partnering with Auto Value for the Technician of the Year program continues to be one of the highlights of our year,” said Bob Paschall, vice-president of sales, U.S. traditional, at DRiV. He said the program highlights the importance of technician training, education and professional development while recognizing the industry’s top talent.
The other Canadian finalists were Spencer Derzaph of Auto Electric Service – Service Department in Winnipeg and Seumas Leghorn of Adair Auto Repair in Calgary.
