The Canadian Marine Careers Foundation (CMCF) recently hosted its second Virtual Marine Careers Event, featuring a diverse group of professionals from across British Columbia’s vibrant marine transportation. Our guests shared their career journey stories with an audience of students, teachers, and counsellors from across the province, who were able to ask questions to our panel of experts. Speakers explained firsthand what it takes to pursue dynamic, well-paying careers onboard commercial vessels, at a port, with a marine engine manufacturer, and in the Royal Canadian Navy.

As with the first webinar, this virtual session was moderated by George Richard, Career Education Coordinator for School District 83. The event highlighted the many opportunities available in this vital industry, as well as the skills and experiences needed to succeed. Students were introduced to pathways they may not have considered before as they begin planning their own careers.

As over 43% of Canada’s marine workforce is set to retire in the next decade, the demand for new talent is growing, making now the perfect time to explore this growing sector.

Jason Michell grew up on Vancouver Island and has built his career in the port transportation and logistics industry. He holds an MBA in Executive Management and a certificate in Asia Pacific Trade and Investment from Royal Roads University.

Jason began his journey at Viking Air, making airplane parts, but transitioned to the marine industry after gaining an interest through a personal connection. His early roles involved working on shipping terminals, managing cargo, labour, and safety, and learning the intricacies of terminal and ship operations.

At the Port of Nanaimo, Jason transitioned from operational roles to a management position overseeing infrastructure, including cranes, lighting, and docks. His responsibilities expanded to working with engineers, coordinating projects, and securing funding for infrastructure upgrades.

Recognizing the need for further education as his career developed, Jason pursued advanced studies with the Port's support. His education helped him navigate complex international trade and funding processes, enabling him to represent the Port in international trade missions to Japan and South Korea. Jason values the impact of his work, which contributes to Canada's $17 billion economic output from ports, with $8 billion in direct GDP impact.

Jane Nighswander has served as a Naval Communicator in the Royal Canadian Navy (RCN) for two years, where she is currently stationed aboard HMCS Winnipeg and HMCS Max Bernays.

Born and raised on a deer farm on Quadra Island, Jane earned a kinesiology degree from Camosun College, specializing in pregnancy and postpartum fitness. Jane decided to make a career pivot to the Navy after being inspired by family military history and receiving advice from a client with a military background.

Jane underwent basic training in Saint-Jean-sur-Richelieu, Quebec, followed by Naval Communicator training in Esquimalt, BC. As a Naval Communicator, Jane is responsible for managing ship communications, including encoding and decoding messages, handling radio frequencies, and ensuring the seamless flow of critical information. Her role spans modern IT systems and legacy techniques like Morse code, flashing lights, and semaphore, blending tradition with technology.

Beyond her trade, Jane welcomes the dynamic nature of Navy life, undertaking in diverse tasks such as line handling, fleet maneuvering, and underwater operations as a ship's team diver. She values continuous learning, having participated in various training courses, including leadership, writing, and language programs.

Jane shares the excitement and unpredictability of her career, from navigating the Gulf Islands to representing Canada on training vessels. She sees clear and precise communication as pivotal to her role, ensuring mission safety and operational success.

Kirstin has been a seafarer on the BC coast for nearly 20 years, with extensive experience ranging from fisheries research and commercial fishing to over 15 years with the Canadian Coast Guard. Currently, she serves as a mate on ship-docking tugs, a role that combines technical skill and a deep understanding of vessel operations.

Kirstin is passionate about the BC coast and enjoys the challenge and variety of driving different types of vessels, including high-performance tugboats. She firmly believes that a maritime career is within reach for anyone with an interest and determination. Her journey began in Fine Arts, but a funded Bridge Watch Rating program at the British Columbia Institute of Technology (BCIT) offered her a new path, leading her to a dynamic and fulfilling career at sea.

Kirstin values the financial stability and flexibility provided by maritime work, particularly the month-on/month-off rotation schedules that allow her to pursue travel and time with family. She appreciates that the industry is inclusive and offers a wide range of opportunities for people of all backgrounds, proving that size or prior experience is no barrier to success.

Now working toward her 500-ton Master's ticket with ambitions of becoming a captain, Kirstin encourages aspiring mariners to bring enthusiasm and a willingness to learn.

Kevin's career journey began with a business administration program at Georgian College in Ontario. His first job in the marine industry was at a dealership where he started in a parts department role, earning $8.50 an hour. As he gained experience in marketing, HR, and other business areas, Kevin quickly rose through the ranks, transitioning to roles in boat manufacturing with companies like Durell International and Kingfisher Boats. This diverse experience helped him build a strong foundation for his current position at Mercury Marine, where he manages sales for Western Canada.

Kevin’s career is a great example of the importance of stepping stones in professional growth. Each job, beginning with the entry-level ones, contributed to developing critical skills that helped shape his career. Kevin also emphasized the value of education, and he attributes his college experience as crucial to his success, even though he didn’t initially plan for a marine career. He is now pursuing an MBA to further his knowledge and leadership in the field.

Kevin enjoys the dynamic and fast-paced nature of the marine industry, where every day presents new challenges and opportunities to create memorable experiences for customers. In his advice to students, he encourages focusing on education and seeking out opportunities to learn from mentors and every job experience. For Kevin, the marine industry offers the perfect balance of passion and professional growth.

Find a career you enjoy, keep learning, and embrace the exciting, ever-evolving opportunities the marine industry has to offer!