The Bridge Winter 2014

WINTER 2014

THE

BRIDGE NEWS FROM THE MARINE INSTITUTE

OCEAN OF OPPORTUNITY

EDUCATIONAL MOSIAC

EVOLUTION

Best of both worlds

OF MARINE ENGINEERING

Message from the vice-president of Memorial University of Newfoundland (Marine Institute)

The growth and the success of the Marine Institute during the past decade has been incredible with a new school, new diploma/degree programs, new master’s programs, new research centres and a new marine base. As we pursue our goal of becoming a World Oceans Institute, the age old question “Are we there yet?” comes to mind.

This year, will mark our 50th anniversary and we will also be working with many partners to host the Oceans ’14 Conference: Where Challenge Becomes Opportunity.

I had the pleasure of participating in Oceans ’13 in San Diego to promote this year’s event and learn how MI can effectively leverage the opportunity to host this major international forum on the future of the world’s oceans.

MI continues to raise its international profile and strengthen global partnerships through its involvement in several conferences. Last fall MI hosted the 2013 World Seafood Congress, the 21st International Maritime Lecturers Association Conference, the International Research Ship Operators Conference and brought our 2013 Ocean Innovation Conference to Quebec.

Message from the Editor MI is known for its ability to adapt with evolving needs in the ocean, fisheries, aquaculture, offshore, oil and gas, marine transportation and marine environment industries.

With 2014 being MI’s 50th anniversary year, we are reflecting on the alumni, students, faculty and staff who have defined, shaped and continue to facilitate the growth of this world-class institute.

This issue of The Bridge focuses on just that – the evolution of MI’s success; where we began, where we are now and where we are heading in the future.

Our success reaches beyond our partnerships. Our students and alumni are our true indicators of excellence. MI recently launched a new student recruitment strategy to welcome prospects and showcase the successes of our graduates through their own personal photographs and stories.

These pages capture the growth of the institute in varying capacities. The growth of our presence on the international stage in terms of development, partnerships and student affairs and services is, in and of itself, a large leap forwards.

Funding from the provincial government and Memorial University has been stellar with ongoing financial support to continue the growth of the Marine Institute.

Like most visions of the future, the bar is set very high but we are achieving our goals and getting there much faster than anyone, including myself, could have imagined.

At every turn MI seeks opportunities to expand its outreach, take on new challenges and most importantly, focus on our true indicators of success: the stories of our students and graduates.

We are driven by our students. Now and in the future we will continue to be an educator, enabler and economic driver for Newfoundland and Labrador and around the world.

Glenn Blackwood Vice-president Memorial University of Newfoundland (Marine Institute) Naomi Osborne Editor

Evolution of marine engineering

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Contents Student Connection

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Educational mosiac

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Alumni spotlight

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The Bridge is published by the Fisheries and Marine Institute of Memorial University. We welcome submissions, story ideas, photographs, letters and of course, your comments.

Editor: Naomi Osborne Graphic Design: Angie Bishop

Editor P.O. Box 4920 St. John’s, NL Canada A1C 5R3 Phone: 709 778 0677 Fax: 709 778 0672 naomi.osborne@mi.mun.ca

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Evolution of marine engineering

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MI-Holyrood connection

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Student connection: Opportunist explores the north

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Cadet to captain

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Expanding science and ocean technology

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West coast aquarium

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Harnessing technology

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Educational mosiac

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Leading the world of student support

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Meeting Challenges, embracing change

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MI in the news

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Breaking with tradition

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Best of both worlds

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Foundations for success

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Alumni spotlight

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Bridge Survey

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Save the date

EVOLUTION

OF MARINE ENGINEERING

This past fall the Marine Institute implemented major changes to its marine engineering program, making it one of the first Canadian institutions to meet new International Maritime Organization (IMO) standards for marine engineers.

First year marine engineering students who entered the program in September experienced the many changes which include an expansion in electrotechnology, controls, computer science, marine engineering technology and a reduction in applied mechanics and physics. Curriculum changes will be implemented throughout the four year program.

Mel Kettle and Albert White, marine engineering instructors in MI’s School of Maritime Studies, co-ordinated these changes with input from faculty, based on IMO and Transport Canada requirements.

“Implementing the new IMO standards into MI’s marine engineering program will produce a stronger student overall. The new skills they will gain will make them well rounded, more informed and more competent in electrotechnology, controls and computer networks as well as marine engineering,” said Kettle.

Fifty years ago, marine engineering required a strong mechanical component whereas now there is a larger amount of electrical technical competence needed. This change in focus from mechanical to electrical is largely due to the increase of automation on vessels.

The new standards set by IMO in the ‘2010 Manila Amendments’ to the Standards of Training Certification and Watchkeeping (STCW) for Seafarers Convention reflect this shift.

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“A marine engineer is no longer a person dealing only with engines,” explained John Cross, marine engineering instructor, School of Maritime Studies. “The profession has evolved to a higher skill level which includes having a deeper and more extensive knowledge base on networks and automated computer systems.”

IMO is a branch of the United Nations which allows shipping to become international. Regulations have been adopted by countries which represent over 99 per cent of the world shipping industry.

Being one of the first Canadian institutions to implement the new IMO standards will provide MI marine engineering students an advantage and open the door to vast opportunities.

Working in close consultation with Transport Canada on the implementation of these standards into MI’s marine engineering program is crucial due to Transport Canada’s role as the inspection and enforcement body for IMO standards. Doing so enables MI to provide relevant instruction, knowledge, theoretical and practical training for marine engineering students.

“Having spent close to 30 years at sea as a chief engineer, I see the tremendous shift in the profession,” said Kettle.

“Overall I think that this new program will be beneficial to students and the marine industry.”

MI - HOLYROOD

connection Strategically located at the head of Holyrood Harbour lies MI’s marine base, which is now home to the institute’s Centre for Applied Ocean Technology (CTec).

Just three years in the making, the Holyrood Marine Base was established by the institute to support research, education and training for the ocean sector.

“Relocating the CTec team to Holyrood has allowed us to open up a broad range of applied research opportunities,” said Randy Gillespie, director, CTec. “We have been working hard to establish strong ties with the Town of Holyrood, other university researchers and ocean industry around a number of initiatives that capitalize on the unique assets of the Holyrood Marine Base.”

The existing facility combines waterfront access with roughly 15,000 square feet of shop/warehouse space. It has been used by local private sector firms and university researchers to support technology development, in-water equipment testing and demonstration, as well as basic survival training for the offshore oil and gas industry.

The base is also playing a key role in the development of the ocean sector in Holyrood and surrounding area under the Oceans Holyrood Initiative (OHI). This initiative is expected to spread economic benefit throughout the region by attracting new businesses and skilled workers, increasing employment for local residents and enhancing the sustainability of rural communities. OHI’s mission is to foster, enable and accelerate the growth of an ocean industries Community of Practice in the Holyrood region.

“Many enterprises in the ocean sector have expressed interest in the development of an Ocean Technology Park. Since they are pressed for space and require ocean access, which is not easily available within the St. John’s metropolitan area, an opportunity exists to attract some of these businesses to Holyrood,” said Barry Snow, chief development officer, Oceans Holyrood Initiative.

MI is currently in the second phase of development of the Holyrood Marine Base which will focus on the establishment of a marginal wharf and breakwater that will create a protected harbour for small boat tie-up and space for two 120 foot vessels.

Other planned developments include a mock oil field at the head of Holyrood Arm to support remotely operated vehicle (ROV) pilot training and research. A fully instrumented acoustic field calibration site further out in the Arm to support testing, calibration and certification of a broad range of acoustic remote sensing systems is also included.

“The creation of a marginal wharf and a breakwater is our beach head for reaching out into the ocean environment,” said Gillespie. “It will provide a sheltered harbour for deployment and recovery of equipment and hopefully attract ocean researchers, equipment and research vessels from around the world to our shores.”

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opportunist explores the For some people, adventure isn’t an indulgence; it’s a way of life.

That’s how Tiffany Martin lives. It was her experience backpacking around Australia that opened her eyes to her passion for the environment and ultimately led her to MI’s marine environmental program.

Now, as she finishes her final year at MI, it is her experience with the 2013 Student’s on Ice Arctic Youth Expedition that is shaping her future.

For 14 days Martin embarked on a ship- and land-based journey through the eastern Canadian Arctic and western Greenland. She participated as the 2013 MI recipient of the Student’s on Ice Arctic Youth Expedition Scholarship.

Student

Connection

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NORTH “MI has given me a concrete beginning and this unique chance to be able to build onto what I learned in the classroom,” said Martin. “This experience has solidified my decision to continue my studies and pursue a career up north in either mining or oil and gas.”

As an ambassador for MI, Martin travelled with 70 international high school students, a team of 35 worldclass scientists, historians, artists, explorers, educators, innovators, polar experts and 30 public and private sector leaders.

This past summer Martin conducted her work term with the Eastern Canada Response Corporation (ECRC) where she was an area response plan co-ordinator for oil spills.

If it were not for ECRC granting her a break in her work term, Martin wouldn’t have been able to participate in the expedition.

This issue’s Student Connection features Tiffany Martin, third year marine environmental student at MI. Martin shares how her experience in the Arctic is shaping her future career decisions.

Reflecting on her Arctic experience, Martin best remembers interacting with inhabitants and the scenery. One experience she recalled was playing soccer with the youth in Itilleq, an Arctic Circle village situated in an archipelago surrounded by steep alpine mountains.

“The community visits were the highlight for me. We hiked to the Arctic Circle through rock, sand and bog,” recalled Martin. “It was epic!”

Wearing sealskin jackets and sitting on caribou (reindeer) skin blankets in the town’s old Blubber House, converted into a movie theatre for the event, Martin and her fellow adventurists witnessed an evocative and intimate portrayal of life in modern Greenland. The emotionally moving film “Inuk” was screened by writer Jean-Michel and featured a cast of local residents.

Throughout her journey, Martin made a lot of friends, or “student connections” as she puts it.

“The community visits were the highlight for me. We hiked to the Arctic Circle through rock, sand and bog.”

Martin is also involved in various initiatives within the province. She keeps close ties with MI Ocean Net and is a Rona Eco representative for Newfoundland and Labrador.

“There weren’t any barriers. I was able to learn as a student but still hang out with the chaperones,” explained Martin.

“These people were not only my friends, but my colleagues as well. I look at all of them with the utmost respect and I would do anything for them.”

The friendships Martin established are so strong that she plans on biking around Iceland with one of her best girl friends from Switzerland for five weeks next summer through Right to Play, a global organization that uses the transformative power of play to educate and empower children facing adversity. Their journey will be focused on promoting healthy lifestyles and opening up opportunities for youth.

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CADET TO CAPTAIN Charting a course to success Every phase of his life since graduating from MI’s nautical science program in 2003 has brought about enjoyable, yet varied, aspects in Chris Elliott’s career.

Elliott started out with Canship Ugland Ltd. (CUL) during MI’s program as a cadet on a dynamically positioned (DP) shuttle tanker. During this experience he learned about bow loading, maneuvering large vessels, tug operations, tanker operations and the offshore sector.

“At the time I did my second sea phase with CUL the company was still in its infancy, with only three years of experience managing shuttle tankers,” explained Elliott. “They were attracting some older MI graduates who were very experienced tanker men that had been sailing overseas.”

It was CUL’s reputation for outstanding employees and being a part of the new offshore industry in Newfoundland and Labrador that made Elliott want to work for the company, but it was a full two years after graduation before Elliott accepted a position to work with CUL. Elliott started his mate’s career on a Great Lakes ‘flat back’, the M/V Canadian Miner. Afterwards, he went to work for Irving Oil on the M/T Irving Eskimo and while he was there Royal Caribbean offered him a second officer position on their Voyager class vessels. It was at Royal Caribbean that Elliott met his wife and the two now have a ten month old daughter.

In 2005, Elliot started at CUL as a third officer on the Jasmine Knutsen. In the last eight years he has developed his skills on shuttle tankers and progressed through the ranks at CUL as he completed his certificates.

“Every leave period was a chance to complete another paper and I’ve found that when you make yourself available, opportunity will knock,” said Elliott.

During his career with CUL, Elliott has participated in four dry dockings, been involved with first oil at the Terra Nova and White Rose fields and was on one of the first two CUL vessels to work in the Brazilian Offshore.

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“Earlier this year CUL offered me a master’s position on the M/T Vinland on charter to Petrobras Brazil,” said Elliott. “Working in the Brazilian Offshore has been an interesting change from the Grand Banks of Newfoundland and has led to many new experiences in a booming offshore industry.”

Over the years Elliott has recognized the support CUL provides to its employees. This mutually beneficial arrangement produces well qualified and trained employees appreciative of the support provided by the company.

“CUL looks to employ people who are motivated to help themselves,” said Elliott. “They have always been willing to support my career advancement through financial support or leave time to complete required exams.”

Currently the prospect for employment within the offshore sector worldwide has never been better with an abundance of projects and roles available.

Elliott is hopeful for continued expansion in the offshore both at home and abroad which will continue to present opportunity for future graduates.

While Elliott feels fulfilled with his career, especially his current position as a master mariner, there is still one thing he would like to check off his list.

“I would like the opportunity to stand by a vessel in the yard and maybe even sail her from the yard on a maiden voyage,” expressed Elliott. “That is certainly a privilege that many captains never experience.”

EXPANDING science & ocean technology JOT advances Canadian science publications Since its inception in 2006, the Marine Institute’s Journal of Ocean Technology (JOT) has brought ocean technology to the forefront of science publications in Canada.

By working with the CALJ board of directors, MI will be able to establish connections with other organizations publishing journals, regardless of the varying topics.

Recently JOT’s managing editor, Dawn Roche, joined the Canadian Association of Learned Journals (CALJ) board of directors as a member at large furthering the institute’s objective of advancing ocean technology in science publications and the sector as a whole.

“Networking is going to be the biggest advantage for MI and the JOT. The goal for the board is to attract more science journals and then try to figure out ways to advance not only the social sciences and humanities, but pure science as well,” explained Roche.

“MI is taking the initiative to help in the dissemination of knowledge,” said Roche. “I’m very pleased to have this opportunity to be on the board of directors and involve the institute in the concerted effort to market Canadian journals overall.”

Roche started working on the JOT in 2008 and has since increased its subscriptions to include 52 countries around the world and generated a growth in technical paper submissions.

Roche is the first Newfoundlander and Labradorian to join the CALJ board of directors, which consists of university and association representatives across Canada.

CALJ represents, develops and supports the academic community of Canadian learned journals in disseminating original research and scholarly information as well as promoting intellectual culture in Canada and internationally. It is a not-for-profit association which works to strengthen both individual journals and the journal community through interactions with government agencies, the research community and other partners.

“When I first started, we would contact people to subscribe or advertise with us and I spent most of my time explaining what the JOT was,” said Roche. “Now, we have people coming to us proactively. They know what it is and that’s a big step.”

Now in its eighth volume, the JOT is produced 4 times a year. The publication includes peer reviewed papers which are reviewed by experts from around the world. www.journalofoceantechnology.com

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WEST COAST

AQUARIUM WITH AN ATLANTIC SPIN Spending one summer at the Ucluelet Aquarium on Vancouver Island was enough to inspire Memorial University alumnus Melanie Knight to take a leap of faith and model a similar aquarium in Newfoundland and Labrador.

Working with her best friend and MI alumnus, Kaylen Janes, Knight founded the newly popular Petty Harbour Mini Aquarium this past spring. With the help of Marine Institute employees who volunteered their time and talent, the mini aquarium has already made a dramatic impact on the St. John’s and tourism community.

“It’s such a growing experience. As a group, we had to become fast friends and figure each other out quickly to communicate our priorities,” explained Knight. “Everyone has incredible talents they were able to apply so it was a rewarding process.”

The mini aquarium operates seasonally and opened for its first year from June 15 to Oct.15. It is a non-profit charitable marine public education centre which engages visitors in a unique hands-on experience with local marine life. A team of volunteer certified scientific divers collect and release local animals back to where they were collected at the end of the season.

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The mini aquarium is a three year pilot project and a selfsustaining organization with a business goal of attracting 15,000 visitors. In the first season, they surpassed their goal with over 17,800 people.

Over the summer months staff at the mini aquarium taught over 20 youth camp programs.

The mini aquarium’s board of directors worked in conjunction with volunteer teachers to develop programs for elementary and junior high schools in the region.

“This past fall we welcomed over 700 students from grades two to eight into the mini aquarium,” said Janes. “In just our first season we have seen tremendous success and hope to continue expanding our capacity to accommodate these school programs in the future.”

Through the assistance of the Ucluelet Aquarium, the Petty Harbour Mini Aquarium has successfully mirrored the British Columbia model and put an Atlantic Canada spin on it. This has Knight hopeful that the future of the mini aquarium model will expand to bring together coastal communities across Canada.

“Every kid should benefit from having an aquarium in their back yard, and not just those children living in urban areas,” expressed Knight. “We have witnessed youth and families change after coming to the mini aquarium, learning about and getting involved in ocean conservation. There are several kids who I am still in contact with from the Ucluelet Aquarium who are now choosing marine biology as a career choice and adapting their lifestyles because they have become passionate about conserving marine life.”

Photo: (L-R) Geoff Coughlan, Keith Mercer, Melanie Knight, Kaylen Hill, Kiley Best, Ruby Banwait, Justin Dearing.

HARNESSING TECHNOLOGY Innovation, new learning strategies and new approaches to industry are a few ways to describe the blended approach to teaching, learning and delivery being developed at MI’s Offshore Safety and Survival Centre (OSSC).

This approach took root in fall 2012 when OSSC began working in collaboration with the Hibernia Management and Development Company (HMDC) Ltd., operator of the Hibernia field, to develop and deliver a Safety, Security, Health and Environment (SSH&E) orientation course in a fully online environment.

The orientation is a requirement for all new hires and contractors working at the Hibernia platform prior to their first trip offshore. Traditionally the course has been delivered in house at Hibernia in a face to face format. The online course was fully implemented in September 2013.

The successful delivery of this project marks the first online course OSSC has formally delivered and will potentially lead to other online and blended learning projects in the future. Companies have already expressed an interest in similar orientation packages at other offshore operations.

Consisting of 16 learning modules, this orientation is designed to deliver instructional content at the awareness level in a wide variety of areas. It lays the foundation for the culture of safety at the Hibernia platform.

The delivery of this safety orientation solely in an online environment ensures a consistent level of content and allows offshore workers to complete the training at their own pace. This new approach provides the participant with vital information about life in the offshore environment prior to

arrival. The online course enables the employer to provide a comprehensive message to all new hires and minimizes lost time for orientation in the offshore environment.

Before implementation, the project underwent testing which involved a detailed review of the course material by the HMDC and OSSC development team. Industry content experts and project team members concluded that the course objectives as well as the teaching and learning concepts provided a powerful tool to offshore workers and approved pilot testing.

A small, controlled group was engaged to participate in the pilot testing phase. The group’s objective was to participate in the course and provide feedback on the content as well as the administration process.

“Safety is paramount for HMDC and they are able that OSSC has the same mindset. They don’t have us on the idea of safety because we are already The materials OSSC produces are done with safety underlying concept,” said Cody Garlie, OSSC.

to see to sell there. as the

This project marks the beginning of OSSC’s evolution into the development of a blended approach to teaching and learning. Part of the transition is enhancing relationships with industry partners by identifying appropriate channels for effective delivery of the training.

“Industry provides us the means to acquire technology.

They are now seeking effective ways of delivering material, so OSSC is focusing on harnessing technology to meet the objectives of industry clients,” said Garlie.

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E D UCAT IONA L

MOSAIC

Regional partnerships, student exchanges, scholarship opportunities and highly regarded graduate and diploma programs are driving the latest influx of international students to the Marine Institute.

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Key mechanisms for promoting MI abroad are partnering agreements such as memorandums of understanding and letters of agreement. In recent years MI has signed agreements with government agencies and institutions in various countries in Asia, Europe, the Americas and Africa.

MI International, the focal point for international initiatives at MI, has helped attract more international students, in part, by concentrating on fostering strong relationships with post-secondary institutions and governments worldwide. It’s something MI is well-known for, having implemented over 200 projects in more than 50 countries.

Nearby Iceland is one country where students are benefiting from study exchanges. This past fall MI opened its doors to six Icelandic exchange program students as part of a new memorandum of understanding between Memorial University and the University of Akureyri.

“MI is a world oceans institute. Fostering relations with partner institutions and attracting and providing quality education to international students helps raise our profile across the world,” said Echo Pittman, international student co-ordinator, MI International.

Norwegian student, Leonore Olsen also studied at MI this past fall. Through a long standing exchange program with the University of Tromsø, which recently merged with the University College of Finnmark to become UiT The Arctic University of Tromsø, Olsen spent her time working towards her

master of fisheries and aquaculture science with MI’s Centre for Sustainable Aquatic Resources.

“I chose the Marine Institute for the chance to see how fisheries technologists work and do research,” said Olsen. “I got to involve myself in discussions with some of the most experienced and innovative people within my field, adding to the fact that I also got to experience a region that historically has been and still is dependent on fisheries.”

In addition to its exchange programs, MI International has also secured funding from two scholarship programs which enable international students to study at MI. The Science Without Borders Program, funded by the Brazil government through the Canadian Bureau for International Education (CBIE), allows students to study at MI for 16 months.

The program allows for four months of English Second Language training at Memorial’s St. John’s campus, two academic semesters and an internship.

The most recent scholarship program established is the King Abdullah Scholarship Program for Technical Training funded by the Saudi Arabian government through CBIE. Through this program students complete the first two years at their home

institution, followed by two years at MI in the food technology and bachelor of technology programs. Students are also allotted extra time for English Second Language training as necessary.

This past fall, eighty per cent of the students enrolled in the institute’s four advanced diploma programs are international.

Traditionally these programs have seen approximately 20 per cent international students, with the remainder coming from across Canada.

The advanced diploma in food safety has seen the largest increase in applicants and also has the highest number of international students. In 2012, MI saw a change with more than half of the students in this particular program coming from outside Canada, mostly India. Now international students are coming from a broader range of places.

“Our international students enjoy the programs and hands-on experience provided at MI,” said Pittman. “We connect them with industry and equip them with the knowledge and skills to increase their opportunities in job markets around the world.

Many faculty and staff at MI put in extra effort to ensure international students are successful and our aim is to continue to strengthen these relations with international institutions and agencies for years to come.”

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PHOTO: DAMIAN MEDINA

LEADING What began as a collaboration of student affairs professionals from around the world is now recognized as the first chartered International Association of Student Affairs and Services (IASAS).

volumes of work on the international student supports available to students studying around the world through the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO).

This historic event was marked last summer when IASAS members, partners, supporters and representatives from Belgium, Germany, Switzerland, England, France, Italy, Spain, Canada and the United States convened to sign the chartering of the association in Brussels, Belgium, home of the European Parliament.

IASAS advocates for the enhancement of services that support student learning and development in higher education. Through its programs and services, IASAS also supports the development of the student affairs profession and professionals worldwide. Many of its members have been actively engaged for some time in defining the need for an international association for student affairs and services professionals.

President of IASAS, Dr. Rob Shea is also the associate vicepresident of Academic and Student Affairs at the Marine Institute. Through his connection to MI and IASAS, Dr. Shea is laying the foundation for the institute to join the international community of student affairs and services and is positioning MI to become a leader in post-secondary education research on issues impacting student learning and success.

“MI is sitting on a gold mine. The institute is the perfect size and flexible enough to leverage life-long learning opportunities and connect them with academic programming that will be the envy of the world.

Being able to work together to build on international opportunities opens new doors,” said Dr. Shea. “We are developing a transformational way to support our students and further position ourselves to becoming a world class oceans institute.”

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THE WORLD OF STUDENT SUPPORT

Only three years old, IASAS boasts over 1,000 members representing 67 countries. Located in Brussels, IASAS works in conjunction with numerous country specific organizations around the world and has published two

In addition to the chartering, IASAS also made headway in other areas. Working in partnership with the European University College Association (EUCA) and the National Association for Campus Activities (NACA) in the United States, IASAS has agreed to produce an international text on post-secondary student competencies. Other projects on the agenda include developing an agreement with the National Association of Student Personnel Administrators (NASPA) with its membership base of 11,000 members to hold a global summit in 2014, garnering more regional coordination in developing countries and completing a strategic plan.

“The more conversations we have with our international partners, the more we can learn and understand the broader wealth of knowledge and practices around the world,” said Dr. Shea. “The chartering in Brussels has opened the door for IASAS and the Marine Institute to partner with influential global organizations and create an international community of student affairs and services.”

MEETING CHALLENGES, EMBRACING CHANGE Oceans ’14 will unite global ocean technology experts in St. John’s, NL this fall.

Transforming ocean challenges into opportunities is what international delegates will be focused on when convening in St. John’s for Oceans ‘14 this September.

Jointly sponsored by the Marine Technology Society (MTS) and the Ocean Engineering Society (OES) of the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE), the conference will take place for the first time in Newfoundland and Labrador, at the Delta St. John’s from Sept.14-19, 2014.

The Marine Institute has been involved in attracting and planning for this premier oceans conference for the past eight years.

Dwight Howse, head of MI’s School of Ocean Technology and Randy Gillespie, director of MI’s Centre for Applied Ocean Technology have been influential in bringing this international forum to Newfoundland and Labrador through their involvement with the MTS, the IEEE OES and the local organizing committee.

“MI plays a key role in the local ocean technology sector and is proud to be supporting this conference,” said Howse, general chair, Oceans ‘14. “Oceans ‘14 will promote local economic development and facilitate discussion amongst experts from around the world focused on ocean technology. In order to successfully deliver this conference, we will be relying on a host of volunteers drawn from the local oceans community.”

This international forum is expected to unite approximately 1,200 scientists, engineers and responsible ocean users to present the latest research results, ideas, development and applications in oceanic engineering and marine technology.

A student program will form part of the conference and will be led by the chair, Marcel Montrose, an MI graduate. He will be working with an expanding network of individuals which will include the Marine Institute MTS (MI-MTS) student section to engage young people in ocean-related activities.

Two members from the MI-MTS student section participated in Oceans ’13 in San Diego. These two students will be leading the section’s involvement in Oceans ’14 this year, aiding the local MTS section as well as hosting students from around the world who are attending the event.

As part of the conference, MI will host a leadership dinner which will include a tour of its facilities and capabilities in research, development and training in ocean technology.

“Newfoundland and Labrador has a lot to offer – a long history as a crossroads for shipping and trade, the world renowned Grand Banks fisheries, nexus of the powerful Labrador and Gulf Stream currents and, most recently, a hotbed for offshore oil and gas exploration and production,” said Gillespie, co-chair, Technical Committee.

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’ O EANS

MTS/IEEE

St. John’s (YYT), Newfoundland and Labrador, Canada | September 14 - 19, 2014

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Marine Engineering Technician Graduation

Joint fisheries research agreement reached

Virtual approach to vessel stability

Marine Engineering Technician Graduation

MI in the

NEWS ACOA investment expands aquaculture, seafood processing and ocean technology The Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency (ACOA) invested $876,600 to expand the Marine Institute’s capacity in the aquaculture and seafood processing and ocean technology industries. With an investment of $496,600, MI will enhance its capacity to respond to the research and development, testing and skills development needs associated with the Newfoundland and Labrador aquaculture and seafood industry. A second investment of $380,000 will improve MI’s research and development capacity and service to clients in the ocean technology industry by enhancing the Offshore Safety and Survival Centre through the purchase of a cold water immersion tank. This also includes upgrades to the School of Ocean Technology’s shop and laboratory space.

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The Canadian Forces Naval Engineering School (CFNES) Detachment St. John’s marked the Marine Engineering Technician Training Plan graduation with a special $1,000 donation to the SPCA. Selected by the graduating class, the contribution was acquired through fundraising events as well as student and staff donations. Fifteen sailors were welcomed into the Royal Canadian Navy ranks. Graduate Matthew Hewitt from Marystown, NL was awarded the MI Bronze Medal for Academic Achievement.

Eastern Edge Robotics places 2nd internationally Memorial and MI’s Eastern Edge Robotics team celebrated a second place win in the Explorer Class during the Marine Advanced Technology Education (MATE) Center’s 12th annual International Student Remotely Operated Vehicle (ROV) Competition in Seattle , Washington this past summer.The team has placed in the top three, eight times since 2003. In the Ranger Class, Heritage Collegiate placed second overall and O’Donel High School received the Aloha Team Spirit Award and a first place finish in the engineering panel portion of the competition.

Virtual approach to vessel stability MI’s Fishing Vessel Stability Simulator (FVSS) is the first of its kind to demonstrate the fundamental principles of vessel stability using a desktop computer. It received an Award

MI Hosts International Seafood Conference

ACOA investment expands aquaculture, seafood processing and ocean technology

Eastern Edge Robotics

of Merit at the 2013 Canadian Network for Innovation in Education conference in the category of Excellence and Innovation in the integration of technology in a formal or non-formal educational program. The project is a joint collaboration between the Canadian Council of Professional Fish Harvesters (CCPFH) and MI. The multimedia content and user interface was produced by Memorial University’s Distance Education, Learning and Teaching Support and MI’s Centre for Marine Simulation and Virtual Marine Technology.

MI supports Terry’s CAUSE on Campus Students, faculty and staff from MI and Memorial University’s St. John’s campus joined forces this past fall to support the second annual Terry’s CAUSE (College and University Student Engagement) on Campus. Participants walked and ran Long Pond to keep Terry Fox’s dream alive and raised money for cancer research. The initiative was launched by the Terry Fox Foundation (TFF) and the Terry Fox Research Institute (TFRI) in partnership with universities throughout Canada. All funds raised go to the TFF for investment in cancer research by the TFRI. MI Hosts World Seafood Conference Held for the first time in Newfoundland and Labrador, the 2013 World Seafood Congress (WSC) took place in St. John’s last fall. MI’s Centre for Aquaculture and Seafood Development hosted the conference in partnership with the International Association of Seafood Professionals. The event

MI supports Terry’s CAUSE on Campus

gathered 400 international delegates from the seafood value chain including harvesters, processors, retailers, government, academia, NGO’s and other industry interests. Delegates participated in expert panels, special interest meetings, workshops and formal presentations around the conference theme: Creative Solutions for Global Challenges.

RDC Supports MI Research Projects The Research & Development Corporation of Newfoundland and Labrador invested $3.7 million in Memorial University to support 34 academic-led research projects aimed at solving technical challenges and closing knowledge gaps. MI funded projects include the Canadian Centre for Fisheries Innovation’s commercialization of high-pressure processing for crab and other species which received a $280,000 RDC investment.

Three research projects from the institute’s Centre for Fisheries Ecosystems Research were also funded.

Joint fisheries research agreement reached MI signed a memorandum of understanding with the Merinov Québec Fisheries and Aquaculture Innovation Centre on a collaborative research and development agreement which will provide opportunities for the two institutions to identify and share in fisheries research relevant to the Canadian fishing industry. The MOU encourages fishing gear specialists from both parties to collaborate on experimental fishing gear design, consult on technical issues and create opportunities for technology transfer between regions.

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BREAKING WITH TRADITION Walking into a predominately male classroom at age forty was certainly a challenge for Heather Starkes, but not at all one she wasn’t prepared to take on.

Having worked in the operations side of the fishing industry with her husband for over 30 years, Starkes decided to change her career path and enrolled in the Fishing Masters III program after her son, former student in the same program at MI, passed away.

“I chose to do this so that my husband and I could be together more and that meant going to sea with him,” said Starkes.

Completing the program several years ago, Starkes now has a Fishing Master Class II certification and instructed a Fishing Master Class III program through MI last year in Lewisporte.

“Things have changed in regards to the working on the ocean, especially the technology,” said Starkes. “Now harvesters need to learn how to operate new equipment and take on new species. I don’t think I will ever stop learning new things in the fishing industry.”

The demand for fishing master programs continues to rise in Newfoundland and Labrador. Last year alone over 100 fish harvesters completed training and over the last two years, MI’s Community Based Education Delivery (CBED) has delivered training from Cartwright to Bonavista, NL, with students completing the online program from as far away as Fort McMurray.

“The institute is continuously looking for new and creative ways to deliver these training needs to the fish harvesting industry,” said Craig Parsons, director, CBED Unit, MI. “Whether it is a three-day course in radio operations or a 12-week fishing master program, the institute will grow with the industry and offer training programs that best meet industry needs.”

Over a year ago Patti Lynn Royal was rallying interest from the people of Lower Island Cove for MI’s Fishing Master IV program. Now, she is a successful graduate and is a level II fish harvester with hopes of joining her brother in taking over their father, Paddy Royal’s, fishing enterprise after his retirement.

“The course had a big influence on my decision to enroll because I live in Lower Island Cove and wanted to cut back on travel time,” explained Royal.

Royal admits there were days she was ready to give up.

Instead she studied hard, worked at all of the different aspects of the program and successfully completed her certification this past April.

“The Fishing Master IV program provided me with practical skills and a lot of different knowledge in all the classes that I completed,” said Royal. “The instructors, especially Rodney Porter and Chad North, were supportive and prepared me for Transport Canada exams. They really helped me achieve my goal.”

Since completing the Fishing Master IV program Royal has worked at Quinlan Brothers in Bay De Verde and has had a few trips out on the water with her father on his boats, ‘Drifters Dream’ and ‘Austin’s Adventure’. As for the future, Royal hasn’t decided if she will be taking any more courses but is leaving her options open. “You never know what life might throw my way.”

CBED is available to deliver community training year round. For further information on courses being offered throughout Newfoundland and Labrador view our training schedule at www.mi.mun.ca/departments/ communitybasededucationdelivery/trainingschedule/ To contact the Marine Institute and register for a program please email: cbed@mi.mun.ca or phone: 1-709-778-0623.

Photo: Patti-Lynn Royal

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Best

of

both worlds MI students and employees in the naval reserves Fostering development, knowledge and a culture that instills personal growth is what the Marine Institute and the Royal Canadian Navy (RCN) work in conjunction to achieve. Sailors from the Canadian Forces Naval Engineering School can be seen in uniform hard at work at the institute alongside other sailors who serve part-time in the navy.

MI students, Nick Hull and Megan Benoit are taking full advantage of the benefits of both the institute and the RCN as reservists serving in HMCS CABOT Naval Reserve Division.

Hull joined the naval reserves in 2010 and has since completed his first year and technical session in the nautical science program at MI with the hopes of one day becoming captain of a merchant ship. Being a deck officer in the naval reserve has helped Hull with his studies at MI and the knowledge he is gaining at the institute is, in turn, helping his naval career.

“If people really knew the work I do, and the people I do it with, there would be lineups just for application forms,” said Hull.

“The naval reserve really is the best-kept secret. I don’t know of any other organization that offers so much opportunity and flexibility at the same time.”

Hull is currently enjoying a year with the naval reserves to gain sea experience and collecting sea days while working towards his Standards of Training, Certification and Watchkeeping (STCW) Bridge Watchkeeping ticket.

Benoit started off as an army cadet, but it was her love of the ocean that brought her to the naval reserves over three years ago.

“The military gives you this amazing sense of belonging right from the beginning. You get to travel the world and meet lifelong friends,” explained Benoit. “The naval reserves teach discipline and skills that are invaluable, especially in the offshore industry.”

After hearing about MI’s ROV program through a friend and talking to instructor, Richard Vandervoort, Benoit was hooked.

“The ROV program at the Marine Institute integrates the sailing and travel aspects of the navy with the thrill of piloting these amazing vehicles and also learning how to fix them,” said Benoit. “I plan to work offshore and travel the world for the next five to 10 years.”

MI students aren’t the only ones taking advantage of the opportunities the naval reserves has to offer.

OSSC diver and technician, Tim Woodworth started at MI before joining the naval reserves and taking on public affairs as his primary duty.

“I’ve always held an appreciation for the professional manner of the military and felt that joining HMCS CABOT would be a great way to learn new marine skills, meet people and travel the country,” said Woodworth. “One of the best things I have gained from my military career is the wonderful people I have met from all over Canada. You can truly feel connected to the nation when you have friends in nearly every province.”

At the institute, Woodworth instructs Basic Survival Training which includes Helicopter Underwater Escape Training and Helicopter Underwater Emergency Breathing Apparatus exercises.

“I feel the two careers complement each other beautifully.

I work at the Marine Institute and meet many people from the local industry on a daily basis. At HMCS CABOT, I can draw us together with the community,” said Woodworth.

“MI has been fantastic over the years in the unyielding support of my military career in the naval reserve and HMCS CABOT has allowed me to travel so I am very grateful to both organizations.”

Photos: MI employee Tim Woodworth (above) and student Megan Benoit (left).

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F

FOUNDATIONS for success Fostering international partnerships and establishing connections has always been fundamental for the Marine Institute. In 2001, the Marine Institute became a key organization in the development of the Technical

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Vocational Education system in Vietnam. In partnership with three other Canadian colleges, MI successfully bid and won the contract for the Vietnam-Canada Community College Project.

Tra Vinh Community College (now Tra Vinh University (TVU), is located in the Mekong Delta, Vietnam. The success of the project demonstrates the strength of the Canadian Community College model and applicability in an international context. The project was funded by the Canadian International Development Agency through the Association of Canadian Community Colleges.

MI and TVU signed a memorandum of understanding in July 2005, recognizing the mutual benefits both parties would gain through further collaborative efforts related to promoting education, training and applied research.

Since then, TVU has grown exponentially to accommodate 20,000 students on four campuses and offers a multilevel, multi-disciplinary, multi-training method modeled on the Canadian College system of close connection with industry and the communities it serves. TVU also includes four additional satellite centres in Tra Vinh province and one salt water aquaculture farm.

MI has been active in Vietnam since the mid-1990s. This has involved the implementation of various projects including the Aquaculture Training Project, Vietnam Fisheries Engineering, Vietnam Inland Waterways, and the Tra Vinh Improved Livelihoods Project.

To date, numerous graduates and MI staff have participated in placements at TVU. MI faculty members Aaron Peach, instructor in the School of Maritime Studies and Roy Perry, School of Fisheries instructor, completed a two month placement at TVU last spring to assist in current English language training, assist TVU faculty in delivering classes, hold and assist in seminars and review teaching materials.

They also took on various additional responsibilities during their placement. Peach reviewed curriculum and graduate student projects for the Department of Foreign Languages and the Centre for International Co-operation in Education and Training; and Perry worked with the Teaching and Learning Centre to review their business curriculum and collaborate on adaptation and methodology.

“The university is very progressive. Students were eager to learn, not just about the English language but about the cultural aspects as well,” explained Peach.

“TVU encourages environmental friendliness through integration of vegetation and wildlife and they welcome cultural diversity with the Khmer population.”

The professional and personal development this opportunity presented was certainly a no-brainer for Peach and Perry. The chance to teach somewhere new and experience another culture, coupled with the hospitality of the community, provided them an enlightening experience.

“The Vietnamese take on a faith holistic approach to life. In a society where so many things could go wrong they love strongly, put family first and place a high value on education,” “The Vietnamese take on a faith holistic approach to life. In a society where so many things could go wrong they love strongly, put family first and place a high value on education,” expressed Perry. “Their kindness, consideration and respect for one another certainly showed me how much we can learn from their perspective in social and professional interactions. For a society that may appear to a visitor at first glance, to be lacking in many of the material possessions, their intrinsic value system provides more than ample compensation.”

Both Peach and Perry maintain communication with students and teachers at Tra Vinh. While their classroom environment is formal, the students are encouraged to learn from one another.

“The rules, regulations and procedures are different than in Canada. One thing I learnt about life in Vietnam was that you can impose limitless rules on something to make it orderly, but if you just let it flow things will work themselves out,” said Peach. “The streets, for example, are organized chaos. Everyone is very hyperaware of their surroundings, but there are no rules and people drive in every direction. When you watch it from afar, it just works.”

Photos: MI faculty Aaron Peach (left) and Roy Perry (above) with students and members of TVU.

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alumni S P O T L I G H T

Celebrate 50 years with MI! The opening of the College of Fisheries, Navigation, Marine Engineering and Electronics on Jan.14, 1964, to quote former premier Joey Smallwood, was, “a bold step forward for Newfoundland [and Labrador].”

Smallwood went on to state, “thousands of young Newfoundlanders [and Labradorians], I confidently hope, will pass through this new college and in it equip themselves to take their places in shipping, marine electronics, and what we all plan to be a greatly strengthened and expanded fishing industry.”

Fast forward 50 years and the college that opened in 1964 on Parade Street is now the Fisheries and Marine Institute of Memorial University of Newfoundland, and known as Canada’s most comprehensive institute dedicated to education, training, applied research and industrial support to the oceans industries.

The Marine Institute began 2014 with the commemoration of its 50th anniversary and will be holding celebrations throughout the year. The journey of MI’s alumni, students, faculty, staff and partners is an integral part of the institute’s history.

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This past summer MI held a 40th reunion for the Electronics/ Electrical Engineering Technology Class of ’73. Alumni enjoyed a tour of MI’s Holyrood Marine Base, School of Ocean Technology, flume tank, full mission ship’s bridge simulator, tug simulator and remotely operated vehicle (ROV) simulator as well as a lunch and presentation.

“Hearing our alumni’s memories and showing them how the institute has changed was an excellent experience to share,” said Gerald Anderson, manager, Department of Development and Engagement. “Hosting reunions is imperative in showing our appreciation to those who have contributed to the success of the Marine Institute over the years.”

Let’s unite to celebrate some of the institute’s best chapters!

Follow the Marine Institute’s 50th anniversary celebrations at www.mi50.ca and on Twitter, @marineinstitute #MI50, Facebook and Linkedin.

The Marine Institute welcomes alumni classes wishing to schedule reunions or events to do so by contacting MI’s Department of Development and Engagement: Kelli-ann.Smith@mi.mun.ca, 778-0370.

TAKE THE

BRIDGE

SURVEY We value our partnerships with industry, government, stakeholders, clients, alumni, students and members of the Memorial University community.

The opinions of our readers matter the most and now we are asking for your feedback.

The Bridge is the official news magazine of the Marine Institute and we take great pride in showcasing how the institute is contributing to the future of the ocean industries in Canada and around the world.

We want to know what you think of our magazine. In an effort to ensure we are providing the most appealing and impressionable content possible, we have created a short five-minute survey for our readers.

It is quick and painless!

Those who complete the survey will be entered to win a Marine Institute jacket similar to those pictured below.

Save the Date MI Career Fair Marine Institute, Ridge Road Campus March 5-6, 2014 www.mi.mun.ca/events/

Canadian Hydrographic Conference 2014 Sheraton Hotel St. John’s April 15-17, 2014

Take the survey: www.surveymonkey.com/s/VVJ3HGN

You could win an MI Jacket!

SAIL 2014 International Association of Aquatic and Marine Science Libraries and Information Centers (IAMSLIC) Marine Institute, Ridge Road Campus May 13-16, 2014 www.mrl.cofc.edu/sail/

RANGER (high school) MATE Regional Competition Marine Institute, Ridge Road Campus May 1-3, 2014 www.marinetech.org

SCOUT (junior high) MATE Regional Competition Marine Institute, Ridge Road Campus May 1-3, 2014 www.marinetech.org

Oceans ‘14 MTS/IEEE St. John’s Delta St. John’s Hotel and Conference Centre & Mile One Centre Sept. 14-19, 2014 www.oceans14mtsieeestjohns.org

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Fisheries and Marine Institute of Memorial University of Newfoundland P.O. Box 4920 St. John’s, NL, Canada A1C 5R3 Toll Free: Tel: Fax: Email:

1 800 563 5799 (in North America) ext. 0677 709 778 0677 709 778 0672 naomi.osborne@mi.mun.ca

www.mi.mun.ca Facebook: Marine Institute Twitter: @marineinstitute Linkedin: Fisheries and Marine Institute of Memorial University of NL

066-366-12-13-5000