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10 Reasons to Choose a Career in the Canadian Marine Sector
If you’re considering a career change or just starting out in the workforce, you may not have considered a career in the Canadian marine sector. The marine sector is an excellent choice for anyone looking for a fulfilling and impactful career, whether you’re passionate about being on the water or just looking for a dynamic work environment.
Image courtesy of the Chamber of Marine Commerce
In this post, we’ve outlined the top 10 reasons that you should choose a marine career, from its global growth and strong earning potential, to its connection to nature and ample opportunities for travel.

  1. Diverse job opportunities: The Canadian marine sector offers a wide range of job opportunities, from commercial shipping and vessel building and repair to shoreside support and logistics, to scientific research, tourism and public safety and security. With marine, you can choose a career that aligns with your unique goals, interests, and skills.
  2. Strong demand for skilled workers: The marine industry is constantly growing and evolving, which means that there is a strong demand for skilled workers from diverse training backgrounds. As close to 45% of the marine workforce is set to retire over the next decade, the industry will need to fill about 19,000 jobs on board Canadian vessels and many more ashore. This means that the marine industry promises strong job security and plenty of possibilities for career advancement as you gain experience.
  3. Engaging work environment: Working in the marine industry means that you’ll have the opportunity to work on or near Canada’s beautiful waterways. Many seafarers will attest that working onboard brings an exciting work environment that’s unlike any other. Working shoreside brings the same advantages! No 2 days are the same, and you'll have the chance to take on interesting challenges that keep you engaged.
  4. Global impact: Canada’s marine sector has both a national and global impact, delivering the goods we rely on, providing passenger transport for our communities, and supporting national infrastructure projects. Many Canadian marine companies have also exported their technology, services and expertise internationally. By working in the marine industry, you will be making a positive impact as you contribute to Canada’s global presence.
  5. Strong earning potential: Many careers in the marine industry offer great salaries that rank well above the national average. Good pay means financial stability and the ability to pursue your passions and hobbies.
  6. A growing industry: The Canadian marine industry is constantly evolving and adapting to our changing world, with new technologies and innovations driving growth and development. This means that there are often new pathways for advancement being created.
  7. Collaborative work environment: The marine industry is highly collaborative, with professionals from different fields working together to achieve common goals. A supportive and inclusive work environment that encourages teamwork and creativity is the foundation of many organizations, and key to their success.
  8. Chance to work with cutting-edge technology: The marine industry is at the forefront of technological innovation, with new technologies and systems being developed all the time to improve safety, operations and its environmental footprint. Marine employees have access to working with state-of-the-art technology that makes a tangible impact on the country.
  9. Opportunities for travel: Many careers in the marine industry bring opportunities for travel, for example, onboard vessels that travel along Canada’s coastal and inland waterways. How many other jobs will pay you as you experience new cultures and see the country in such a unique way?
  10. Connection to nature: The marine industry has a close connection to the natural world, with many careers focused on the protection and preservation of our rich and diverse marine ecosystems. Many marine careers have a positive impact on the environment and play an active role in combating global environmental issues.

A career in the Canadian marine sector is a great choice for anyone looking for a dynamic work environment, strong earning potential, and the ability to make a difference in the world. With a wide range of job opportunities and the chance to work with cutting-edge technology, there is something for everyone in the marine sector. So if you are looking for a fulfilling career, consider exploring the opportunities available in the Canadian marine sector!

To learn more about Canadian marine careers, visit our career opportunities page.
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Imagine Marine, a CMCF Initiative. © 2022, Canadian Marine Careers Foundation, all rights reserved.
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