Georgian College celebrates Automotive Business graduates and honours Ford Canada leader Bev Goodman
Oct. 8, 2026
Georgian College celebrated graduates of its Automotive Business programs at the Automotive Business School of Canada’s (ABSC) convocation on Oct. 8 at the Georgian Theatre, Barrie Campus.
Approximately 168 graduates from December 2024 through August 2026 crossed the stage surrounded by family, friends, faculty, alumni, employees and industry partners, marking the culmination of years of learning, hands-on experience and preparation for careers in one of Canada’s most dynamic industries.
The ceremony also included the presentation of a Georgian College Board of Governors’ Honorary Bachelor of Business Administration (Automotive Management) to Bev Goodman, President and CEO of Ford Motor Company of Canada, Limited.
Bev has built an exceptional career in the Canadian automotive industry, demonstrating leadership, innovation and a strong commitment to partnership. Her support for experiential learning and student success, along with her connection to the Automotive Business School of Canada, makes her an outstanding role model for our graduates as they prepare to make their own impact.
– Kevin Weaver, President and CEO, Georgian College
A highly respected leader in the automotive industry, Goodman has built a 30-year career with Ford Motor Company of Canada. She began as a finance intern in 1996 and progressed through a variety of roles, including finance, parts and service, and sales and marketing, before being appointed President and CEO in 2021.
Today, Goodman leads Ford Canada’s operations across the country, including its national headquarters, regional offices, vehicle assembly and engine manufacturing plants, parts distribution centres, research and development sites, and Connectivity and Innovation centres. Ford employs approximately 7,000 people in Canada, with an additional 18,000 people employed at more than 400 Ford and Ford-Lincoln dealerships.
Goodman a ‘respected leader in the Canadian automotive industry’
“Bev Goodman’s career is a powerful example of vision, resilience and partnership. As a respected leader in the Canadian automotive industry and a valued member of the Automotive Business School of Canada’s advisory board, she has helped strengthen the connection between industry and education. The Board of Governors is proud to recognize her achievements and her commitment to students and the future of automotive business,” said Carolyn McGoey Garvey, Chair, Georgian College Board of Governors.
Goodman’s connection to Georgian extends beyond her industry leadership. She currently serves as a board member with Georgian’s ABSC, contributing her time and expertise to supporting the next generation of automotive professionals.
Under her leadership, Ford Motor Company of Canada has been a valued partner to Georgian’s ABSC, investing in students in many ways. These range from student awards and scholarships to hands-on learning opportunities that prepare graduates for rewarding careers in the automotive industry.
This honorary degree means a great deal to me, both personally and professionally. Ford took a chance on me early in my career and invested in my growth, and serving on the Automotive Business School of Canada’s Board has given me the opportunity to help give students that same runway as they enter our industry. Congratulations to the graduates — I can’t wait to see where you take this industry next.
– Bev Goodman, President and CEO, Ford Motor Company of Canada, Limited
Following convocation, graduates were welcomed at a reception sponsored by PBS Systems.