About
We run workshops and classes where complete beginners can learn hands-on skills like car maintenance and home repair.
Our Vision
We envision a community where hands-on knowledge is inclusive, accessible, and a source of personal pride for everyone, regardless of their background or previous experience.
Our Story
Skills Junction started because of a class that changed how I saw myself.
I grew up with the idea that hands-on skills like car and home maintenance were 'for boys.' As an adult, I was completely intimidated by my vehicle and DIY tools. I relied on my husband for everything and felt completely lost working with contractors and mechanics.
One day, a friend convinced me to sign up for a continuing ed class in beginner auto mechanics. That class flipped a switch and completely boosted my confidence. I left feeling empowered to handle small car repairs myself and push back when a mechanic tried to sell me unnecessary services.
The instructor of that class, Joe, mentioned that the waitlist for the course was months long. I couldn't stop thinking about all the people waiting. So I reached out to Joe, and together we started bringing that same experience to more people in Toronto.
Skills Junction is what grew out of that. We're so proud to share hands-on, judgment-free workshops for anyone who was never shown these skills and always wished they had been.
— Carly Bautista, Founder
Ry Colmer
Ry Colmer is a Red Seal automotive technician, a former Tesla senior trainer, and a current professor at Centennial College. He has taught auto mechanics to hundreds of learners, from seasoned pros, to high school shop students.
But what makes Ry the right fit isn't just his credentials. It's that he genuinely believes this knowledge should be accessible to everyone, and he’s fantastic at creating a welcoming environment for beginners to learn about their cars.
Instructor - Automotive
Joe Dela Pena
Lead Instructor - Automotive
With over 20 years as a mechanic and team leader at a Honda dealership, Joe knows cars inside and out. But what makes him special is his gift for teaching. He's spent over six years with the Toronto School Board's Learn for Life program, and has worked with hundreds of students
from complete beginners to advanced learners.
His approach is simple: stay approachable, keep it fun, and create a judgment-free zone where everyone feels comfortable asking questions.
Carly Bautista
Founder & CEO
With a Psychology degree from McGill University and five years running career training programs, I've always been passionate about helping people discover their potential.
From leading canoe trips and special education programs to guiding project teams in tech and film, I believe in creating supportive spaces where everyone can learn and grow.
I founded Skills Junction to share that feeling with others, creating a space where learning is hands-on, supportive, and empowering. Because we all
carry more capability than we often believe, we just need the right environment to uncover it.
Meet the Team
Hear From Past Learners
“Loved the hands on application
and welcoming safe space. It was a small group which meant everyone could participate."
Chris S.
“Would highly recommend!
I've already put what I learned to work. I found and changed the cabin filter in my car!”
Katherine R.
"Easily the best workshop I’ve ever attended and the most practical..I feel 1000% more confident working on my car now."
Elise M.