April, 2026 

In this April video message, MDA President Gerald Wood shares updates on recent industry engagement and highlights key opportunities for dealers in the months ahead. He recaps strong participation in the Fixed Ops Accelerator sessions, encourages attendance at the upcoming Edmonton Auto Experience, and congratulates the Calgary Auto and Truck Show on its success.

Gerald outlines upcoming training programs, including receptionist and customer handling courses, and introduces an AI-focused webinar with FlitetHouse AI. He also discusses new workforce initiatives in partnership with Careers: The Next Generation, including an Edmonton career fair and a pilot RAP draft hiring concept. The message closes with a preview of plans for the Western Canadian Dealer Summit and a look ahead to the spring market.

Watch the video and access important additional resources by clicking below. 

Edmonton Auto Experience
Edmonton, AB
April 9-12, 2026

MDA's Inaugural Alberta Legislature Day
Edmonton, AB
April 15, 2026

Effective Communication Strategies for Service Advisors
Online
April 15, 2026

NAVACORD National Dealership Conference
Red Deer, AB
April 16, 2026

Keys to Communication Receptionist Training
Online
April 16, 2026

FliteHouse - No Lead Left Behind - Inside Track Webinar 
Online
April 20, 2026

Effective Communication Strategies for Service Advisors
Online
April 22, 2026

Dealer Huddle NEXT 2026 
Calgary, AB
April 22, 2026

Keys to Communication Receptionist Training
Online
April 23, 2026

April 20, 2026, 9:30 AM - 11:00 PM, Online

Dealerships across Alberta are facing the same challenge: more leads, higher expectations, and limited time to follow up.

When response times slow down, opportunities get missed.

FliteHouse Custom Built AI Agents are designed to ensure no lead is left behind by helping dealership teams respond faster, follow up consistently, and book more appointments, without adding headcount.

What AI Agents can do for your dealership:

Respond instantly to new inquiries
• Automate follow-ups via text or voice
• Book appointments directly into your CRM
• Provide 24/7 lead coverage

Dealerships using AI-powered outbound agents are already seeing measurable results:

31% revenue lift from faster lead response

50% fewer no-shows with automated reminders

100% lead coverage — every inquiry handled

AI agents work alongside your team to reduce BDC workload while ensuring every customer receives timely engagement.

An update on provincial sales around Canada.

The provincial sales numbers for February 2026 have been posted at the link below.

March 12-15, 2026, saw the Calgary International Auto & Truck Show roar back into the BMO Centre.

Over 220 new vehicles, alongside some beautiful old classics, were showcased in the 250,000 square feet of display space.

New this year, saw The Protectors Pavilion set up for recruiting purposes in over 10,000 sq ft of exhibition space. Terrific displays, complete with various vehicles including emergency response units, were showcased by the Canadian Armed Forces, City of Calgary Police, EMS, City of Calgary Transit and the RCMP.  The space was created to encourage patrons to engage with various emergency services and essential public services to explore potential career opportunities.

Did you know that while AI is simplifying tasks like writing emails and setting reminders, it is also being exploited by cyber attackers? These attackers use AI to create convincing voices and messages that prompt engagement, such as clicking on malicious links, making it harder to detect phishing attempts.

To help you stay vigilant, we’ve created an educational one-minute video that outlines how AI is used in cyber-attacks, the signs to watch for, and best practices for training and security measures to protect your business and employees:

As a 100% Canadian-owned insurer, Federated Insurance is here to support you and your business. To learn more, visit www.federated.ca or if you’re a Federated customer, you can contact your Commercial Insurance Specialist with any questions.

CADA appeared before the House of Commons Standing Committee on Industry and Technology (INDU) on March 12 to outline policy priorities affecting Canada’s retail automotive sector. Tim Reuss, CADA’s President and CEO, highlighted the economic impact of Canada’s 3,400 franchised new car and truck dealers, which employ more than 178,000 people, contribute $28 billion to Canada’s GDP, and pay more than $6 billion in taxes annually.

He welcomed the federal government’s recently announced Auto Strategy, including its decision to move away from a national EV sales mandate.

“Dealers across Canada particularly applaud the government for ending the EV mandate and choosing a better path forward for emission reductions that is more in line with diverse technology, charging infrastructure and overall consumer demand,” said Reuss.

April 15 & 22, 2026, 9:00 AM - 4:00 PM, Online

The Importance of Good Communication

Communication is the cornerstone of success in both personal and professional spheres. This 1-day seminar, "Effective Communication Strategies," aims to equip participants with essential skills and knowledge to navigate the complex landscape of interpersonal interactions that can be applied both in and out of the workplace. The session encompasses a range of topics, ensuring a comprehensive exploration of the key facets of effective communication and will lead to enhanced collaboration, improved relationships, and overall productivity and fulfillment in our work and personal lives.

April 16 & 23, 2026, 9:00 AM - 4:00 PM, Online

The Necessity of Frontline Communication
Your frontline team are the people your customers see and talk to first. They are the face and voice of your organization. In order to be successful, you need every customer to be very satisfied and happy.

Some days you don’t have time to get it all done, or done as well as you would like. Some days you can’t find any staff. Some days, the customers are not so friendly, the phones never stop, and your computer isn’t computing.

For days like these, make sure your front-line staff are trained and prepared. Strong frontlines, stronger service.

April 22, 2026 8:00 AM - 4:00 PM 
88 Canada Olympic Road South West Calgary, AB T3B 5R5

Dealer Huddle NEXT is a one-day VIP Automotive event series that is focused on the future of the Canadian Automotive Industry.

Join us on Wednesday, April 22, 2026, at 88 Canada Olympic Rd S W for an exciting event that you won't want to miss. Connect with industry professionals, discover the latest trends, and gain valuable insights to help you succeed in your business.

With our support, the organizing team at TierSix Solutions has once again made all tickets for MDA Dealership members FREE.

Use code Freeticket4U to claim your ticket and secure your seat.

Don't miss out on this opportunity to grow and thrive in the automotive industry. See you there!

CADA 360 completes your dealership with a comprehensive suite of insurance programs and tailored business solutions. Designed for dealers and built to adapt, CADA 360 meets your challenges today and evolves with you for tomorrow.

Choosing CADA 360 strengthens your business and supports advocacy for Canadian dealers.

Visit cada.ca/cada360 to learn more.

We’re excited to share our brand-new MDA video!

As an MDA member, you’re part of a powerful network of dealers shaping the future of Alberta’s automotive industry. From strong advocacy and government representation to exclusive programs, professional development, scholarships, and recognition through our Dealer of Excellence awards, your membership is built to support you, your team, and your success.

Take a moment to watch our short video!