After 29 years, super association executive director Shirley Canty gears down
Sitting down with Shirley Canty for an interview to talk about her illustrious career, you get the sense that this whirlwind force doesn’t much like sitting down at all. Even when she’s laser focused on a topic of conversation, you get the impression her mind is still quietly at work in the background, reviewing details and checklists and ensuring all the ducks are in a row.
It was easy to understand why Canty might have had a lot on her mind when we met — because there was a lot on her plate. Our interview took place in the middle of the largest conference in the history of the Manitoba Motor Dealers Association, and just hours before Canty was to be formally honoured at a gala event, and one she helped organize!
But the spirited executive director of the Manitoba Motor Dealers Association graciously agreed to meet with Canadian auto dealer and shared some of her reflections on 29 years of service and her retirement plans.
“It feels good. It feels like I’ve made the right decision and I’m looking forward to what I’m calling the next phase of my life,” says Canty.
Canty recalls the days when she first started when she used a Gestetner copier, then an electric typewriter, then computers and any tools needed to get the job done. But she concedes that she’s “hit the wall” with new tools and technologies dealers now use. “I do feel it’s time. I joke about it, but it’s very true. I feel I’m at my limit as far as the Internet, I’m not interested in Facebook, Twitter and all that,” she says. “There’s no doubt that’s going to be the future. I’m not interested in learning it.”
In reflecting on her career, she says she’s particularly proud of the safety legislation the association helped push to establish, dealer licensing standards and the association’s training programs. On a personal note, she cites great friendships, and the many travels across the U.S. and Canada. She also made sure she took in the sights and sounds along the way. “When I travelled I had no trouble going to things on my own, that doesn’t bother me,” she says with a chuckle.
Less structure, more time
Canty describes herself as a very structured person. But the structure and the association’s annual calendar of events meant that every year had a rhythm and pattern to follow. “I’m trying to not be so structured. I have a few things lined up to get me through to Christmas. If there’s something I see in the paper that looks interesting, I’ll just be able to go to it. It won’t be so scheduled.”
She might even take time to take some classes or find new hobbies. “That’s why I don’t want to look too far ahead,” she said.
One thing Canty will be able to do is travel. At the gala dinner where she was recognized, the dealers and the association provided her with a travel voucher and spending money. It was a fitting tribute that included a multimedia presentation with photos and videos that chronicled her career, travels and people she met along the way. “My retirement celebration was awesome,” she said.
Lifetime membership honour
Canty was also honoured with a lifetime membership in the MMDA, the only such honour ever bestowed to someone who isn’t a dealer. “What an honour to be made a lifetime member of the MMDA,” said Canty. “There have only been four lifetime members of MMDA, all dealer members: the late Don Martin, John Carter, Gerry Little and Ike Vickar. To be the first non-dealer to receive this award is very special.”
Future looks bright
As for the next generation entering the industry, Canty says she’s optimistic that young people will play an important role. “I think more and more younger people see it can be a good career. The Canadian Automotive Institute has had a lot to do with that. Look at all those graduates they’ve turned out of there with 99 per cent employment when they come out,” she says.
Canty also had high praise for her successor Jeff Sine, who was chosen from many excellent candidates. She says while she’s winding down, she still expects to be available to answer questions, emails and meet for lunch to help him make a smooth transition.
Canty retired July 21, 2011 marking 29 years she has worked diligently on the association’s behalf. Canty is already recognized as the first woman to hold the executive directorship of an automobile association in Canada.
Canadian auto dealer wishes you well!
