The VSA's Learning Division
The primary objective of the Learning Division is to help create a respected motor vehicle sales industry and an informed and confident public through education. This education will occur in a variety of ways and with a variety of constituencies.

A quick history of professional development in the motor vehicle sales industry

Industry leaders created strong roots with the Motor Dealer Standards Association (MDSA), established in 1999. One of the most impressive achievements of the MDSA was a determination to upgrade the professionalism of salespeople. Working with Douglas College and other educators, a two-day course was designed. By 2004 when the Motor Dealer Council (now VSA) began, more than 4,000 salespeople had gone through the voluntary certification program. The VSA is building upon the success of those who pioneered these programs, particularly Douglas College and Okanagan College.

The first mandatory course for all salespeople and consumer-related business staff in the motor vehicle sales industry came with the creation of the Motor Dealer Council (now VSA) on June 1, 2004. This course recognizes that to be a motor vehicle sales industry professional, one needs to be fully grounded in the laws and regulations that apply to the industry. Based on models found in real estate, securities, franchising, insurance and various trades and professions, this requirement acknowledges that a motor vehicle is often the first or second most expensive investment made by individuals and families.

Mandatory Certification Courses

Salesperson Certification Course – Level I is the introductory certification course for new motor vehicle salespeople.

Salesperson Certification Course – Level II Upgrade is an advanced level program for experienced motor vehicle salespeople.  Prerequisite:  Level I

FUTURE OFFERINGS

Advertising Workshops
Successful province-wide workshops followed the publication of comprehensive advertising guidelines in November 2005. It is a hands-on opportunity to review the guidelines and to discuss advertising practices with experienced VSA staff, media and advertising professionals.  The updated workshops are planned to be offered on an ongoing basis..

Consumer education and awareness
Plans are underway to supplement the existing website consumer resources, enquiry line information and referrals, awareness advertising and consumer outreach activities with new ways to get out the following messages:

• The value of choosing a licensed motor dealer
• The value of working with a licensed sales professional
• How to be an informed and responsible consumer
• The role of vehicle inspections and vehicle history reports

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