Bob Jaworski, whose Auto Electric Service has been at the forefront of the automotive aftermarket in Southern Saskatchewan for more than 80 years, says he’s immensely proud of Canada’s aftermarket and that it’s on a par with the best in the world.

Speaking at AIA Canada’s Canadian Auto Care Industry Conference in Toronto this week, where he was being honoured with the Distinguished Service Award, Jaworski said he was humbled by the recognition but took the opportunity to talk up Canada’s aftermarket.

The industry here, he said, was “resilient and will always find a way to adapt and move forward, largely because the industry is filled with some amazing leaders.

“From my perspective Canada’s automotive aftermarket doesn’t have to take a backseat to anyone in the world. I am constantly impressed by how adaptive, innovative, and focused we are as an industry and lead the way throughout the world. That goes for everyone in this room.”

The AIA Canada Distinguished Service Award is the highest award presented by the Association to an individual member. It recognizes outstanding service and leadership that contributes to the growth and development of Canada’s automotive auto care industry. 

Jaworski has been a dedicated leader in the aftermarket industry for over 40 years. After earning a Business Administration degree in 1983, he joined Dayco Canada as a territory sales representative before moving to SaskTel as a marketing manager. In 1986, he returned to the industry with Auto Electric Service Ltd. as Regina Sales Manager, quickly rising to Corporate Sales Manager and later General Manager, overseeing operations. 

In 2007, when major shareholders sold their shares to company leaders, he was appointed President, General Manager, and Chairman of the Board. He now serves as President and CEO of Auto Electric Service Ltd. and continues as Chairman, focusing on growth and success. 

Beyond his leadership, Bob has contributed to the industry through roles on AIA Canada’s Board of Directors and currently serves on the National Account Committee for the Aftermarket Auto Parts Alliance.  

Jaworski, who also served as chair of the association, said that the best lesson he ever received was one of professional humility.

“It came from my father-in-law, Morley (Wagner) who some of you may know, who had a 50 plus year career in the aftermarket early into my time at Auto Electric Service. He sat me down one day and gave me a life lesson, or let’s just call it a leadership opportunity.

“He told me that if I ever thought I was that important and that I was the reason for our company’s success, then I should be at work someday and have no one else show up. Then you’ll know how important you are. The only thing you can do is go to the door, put your key in the lock and lock it, because it’s never about the individual. It’s always about the team.

“We’re all in it together, and the stronger the team, the more success you’ll have.

“I always look at the whole Canadian automotive aftermarket as a team. We may not always be wearing the same sweater, but we are part of a much bigger team. With that, I want to express my sincere gratitude for this award. But even more importantly, I want to thank all of you in this room and the thousands of others who are a part of the automotive aftermarket and make this the very best industry in the world. “