J.M. Automotive opened in 2010. The owner, Jim McKenney, went to Kemptville College for Diesel Mechanics in 1994, and started his apprenticeship at Christie Chrysler, in Kemptville. He earned his license in 1999. When Christie Chrysler was bought out by Car Canada, Jim moved with them to Ottawa, where he stayed until 2010. Jim was born and raised in Oxford Station, and he resides there still with his wife (see below) and 2 kids. Jim works on every make and model, from 1914 Model T, to 2021 Dodge Rams. Jim is also a professor at Algonquin College, where he teaches the up and coming mechanics. Jim has worked hard to build up his reputation and client base. We are happy to report that we have many happy customers, some who have followed Jim from shop to shop.
Fiona McKenney is an owner and Service Advisor. Fiona has been with J.M. Automotive since 2014. Fiona was born in England, but has been in Canada since she was 6. After moving around Ontario, her family settled in Oxford Mills in 1989. Married for over 25 years, Jim and Fiona continue to live on the old family farm in Oxford Station. Fiona will help you book your appointments, and be sure that the best parts are ordered for your vehicle.
Travis Mackenzie is a fully licensed mechanic. He started in 2014 as a co-op student, and decided that an automotive tech was his calling. Travis completed his schooling and got his license in March 2020. Travis picked up the trade quite quickly, and is now and is now a pro at diagnosing some of the tougher problems. Born and raised in Oxford Station as well, Travis continues to live with his folk, his fiancée and their daughter, Scarlett.
Colin Baxter joined our team, part time, as a Service Advisor in 2018. Colin has been in the automotive field for over 45 years. First as a technician, and then as a service advisor. Licensed in Canada since 1981, (He started his career in England) Colin has worked on almost all types of vehicles and has a wealth of knowledge. Colin has lived and worked in many different places, but has called Kemptville his home for over 30 years. Colin (who also happens to be Fiona’s Dad) lives in Oxford Mills with his wife and dogs, Ozzie and Lizzy.
Jesse Hudson joined our team in December 2020. He is a fully licensed mechanic who enjoys skidooing, playing poker, and dirt biking. Jesse joined us as an apprentice and got his license in June, 2022 and loves everything about cars. He is a great addition to the JM Automotive team!
Isaac Parker, like Travis, is another co-op kid who never left. Isaac joined us in 2020, helping and learning along side Travis. He can now work independently and is scheduled to start his level 1 apprenticeship this fall. We are excited to watch Isaac learn and grow into an amazing mechanic.
Piper McKenney started working for us in April of 2021 as a co-op student, and is now one of our service advisors 4 days a week (and also the owners’ daughter….we really ARE a family business!) When she isn’t behind the desk answering phones and sourcing out parts, she is usually out with a friend getting her nails done or indulging in a bit of online shopping.
Shylo Legue is a fully licensed mechanic. He came on board in June 2022 after his previous boss retired. Shylo was born and raised in North Gower and now lives in Kemptville with his girlfriend and son. When he is not working, Shylo enjoys spending time with his family.