Georgian College

13 GEORGIANVIEW DIGITAL WINTER 2024-25 2024 PREMIER'S AWARDS | Kevin Weaver, President and CEO, Georgian College, nominee Andrew Ojamae (class of 2001), Jason Dale, Executive Director of the Automotive School of Business and Steve Lowe, Chair, Georgian College Board of Governors, at the Premier's Awards reception. For Ojamae, the mentorship, job-ready skills and forward-thinking approach he gained through Georgian's Automotive Marketing and Management program laid a foundation for the growth and adaptability that has helped him succeed. He was able to pivot quickly as the pandemic hit, finding pioneering ways to reach customers and grow AutoIQ despite the obstacles facing them and many other businesses at the time. From building the AutoIQ brand and employing new go- to-market strategies to developing new revenue streams and creating an entirely virtual customer experience, Ojamae guided his team to what became AutoIQ's most innovative period to date. Under his leadership, the business not only survived but thrived, now generating more than $1 billion each year and employing more than 450 team members. Knowing how Georgian made a difference in his ability to steer a business through uncertainty and transformation, Ojamae has continued his strong connection to his alma mater, nurturing the industry's next leaders as he propels AutoIQ to new heights. Through funding the AutoIQ Leadership Academy co-op program at Georgian, he helps give aspiring professionals an up-close-and-personal look at all facets of the business while tapping into an exceptional talent pipeline to continue AutoIQ's leading position in a competitive industry. Through the many connections he's made and ways the community continues to enrich his career, Ojamae is a testament to the enduring strength of a Georgian education—building not just skills, but the resilience needed to succeed in any circumstance while inspiring others to do the same.

• Cover