Canadian Geographic Education, in partnership with the Canadian Marine Careers Foundation (CMCF) and its Imagine Marine campaign, proudly presents the 2nd annual Marine Month in Canada this October 2024. This national initiative brings marine careers and real-world STEM (science, technology, engineering, and math) field applications to the classroom, celebrating Canada’s rich maritime heritage and highlighting the vast career opportunities that await in the marine sector. The Marine Month initiative has been designed to inform and engage students and educators from coast to coast through live online events, classroom resources and lessons and a $500 prize contest for participating teachers.

With the longest coastline in the world and an abundance of freshwater resources, Canada is home to a diverse and thriving marine industry. However, the sector faces a significant workforce challenge as 43% of the current marine workforce is expected to retire within the next decade. To meet this demand, the industry will need to attract 19,000 new workers with skills and interests in navigation, engineering, environmental science, technology, security, logistics, professional services, and more.

This year's program has been adapted for students in grades 5 through 12, featuring participating speakers from across the country and the industry: Canada Steamship Lines (CSL), British Columbia Coast Pilots, Montreal Port Authority, Canadian Coast Guard, Royal Canadian Navy, and Marine Atlantic. The Marine Month in Canada program includes live virtual presentations, where students can interact with marine professionals and explore ports, ships, and simulators across Canada. Fireside chats offer intimate discussions on the career journeys and challenges faced by industry experts, providing a personal view of maritime careers. Additionally, an interactive Kahoot! game after each presentation reinforces learning and encourages further interest in marine opportunities.

Teachers and career and guidance counselors will have access to interactive resources such as videos, quizzes and online lessons to explore different types of careers, skill sets, responsibilities, and training options with their students before or after the Live Events.

Curriculum-based classroom activities aimed at Grades 5-8 will also connect the marine sector with subjects like science, math, communications, environment, and economics. Activity examples include:

• Determining Tidal Lift in Prince Rupert’s Porpoise Channel: Students will learn how navigators ensure the safe passage of large ships through narrow channels by calculating tide levels.
• Clean Energy on the Seas: Understanding Biofuel: This activity introduces students to biofuel, its environmental benefits, and its role in reducing emissions from ships.
• Emergency on the Water - Packing for a Canadian Coast Guard Mission: Students will select essential items for a Coast Guard mission, learning about emergency preparedness and decision-making.

Marine Month 2024 introduces a new $500 cash prize contest for classrooms. Teachers may submit one entry per live event they attend with students, up to three entries total. A randomly selected winner will receive a cheque payable to their school, which can be used to support classroom resources.

“Marine Month is a unique and invaluable opportunity for students to discover the numerous and fascinating career opportunities within the marine industry, opening doors to a future filled with adventure, innovation, and meaningful impact on our world.”

• Jean-Luc Plante, Director, Talent Management, Canada Steamship Lines

"The British Columbia Coast Pilots are thrilled to be a part of Marine Month in Canada for the second year running. We look forward to connecting with students and educators across the country to help shed light on the wonderful opportunities awaiting young people in Canada’s marine industry"

• Andrew McNichol, Marine Pilot, British Columbia Coast Pilots

"Marine Month is a fantastic opportunity to explore the vast possibilities in Navy maritime careers. The Royal Canadian Navy is developing new ways to reach students, including access to paid education and our new Naval Experience Program. This program offers young Canadians a hands-on introduction to life at sea, naval careers, and essential skills for the future."

• Doug Bacon, Director, Naval Personnel, Strategic Attractions Team, Canadian Armed Forces

“Marine Atlantic is pleased to support Marine Month highlighting the importance of the marine sector to our national economy and the vital role seafaring plays in the daily transportation of people and goods. There are so many exciting opportunities available in the maritime sector and young people are vital to the long-term stability of our industry. We look forward to working with other marine transportation providers across Canada in highlighting the many adventurous, well-paying careers available to young people looking for a truly rewarding career path.”

• Murray Hupman, President and CEO, Marine Atlantic

“As CEO of the Port of Montreal, I am immensely proud to support the initiative of Marine Month in Canada. This initiative not only shines a spotlight on the fascinating jobs within the marine industry but also plays a vital role in educating our youth about the opportunities that await in maritime careers. The marine industry is instrumental to our national economy and the wellbeing of all Canadians. Together, we are opening pathways to careers filled with innovation, adventure, and significant contributions to society.”

• Julie Gascon, CEO of the Montreal Port Authority

“The Canadian Coast Guard is proud to support Marine Month and looks forward to engaging with students and educators on the critical role marine careers play in safeguarding Canada’s waters and communities. At the Canadian Coast Guard, we are committed to inspiring the next generation of maritime professionals and showcasing the diverse opportunities available in our field. From nurses and engineers on ships to search and rescue coordinators on shore, there are dozens of exciting and rewarding careers to learn about this Marine Month.”

• Mario Pelletier, Commissioner, Canadian Coast Guard

"By planting the seeds of interest in marine careers with young Canadians, we are not only addressing the looming workforce gap but also inspiring the next generation to explore the diverse and rewarding opportunities in the maritime sector. Marine Month in Canada provides students with a unique window into this vital industry, helping them envision their future and place in it."

• Julia Fields, Executive Director, Canadian Marine Careers Foundation

For more information on how to participate and to access resources, visit https://cangeoeducation.ca/en/marine-month or contact info@cangeoeducation.ca.