VIU’s nautical training expands with new marine institute

Students looking for a career in the maritime sector will soon be able to complete their training in the Central Island, thanks to a new nautical training facility set to open its doors on September 11, 2008.

The Western Maritime Institute (WMI), an extension of Maritime Education Associates, has joined with Vancouver Island University (VIU) to offer training in the new six acre facility in Cassidy. The institute will be one of only two places in Western Canada to offer courses in Proficiency in Survival Craft and Rescue Boat training (formerly Marine Emergency Duties B-1) and Advanced Fire Fighting (formerly B-2).

"The demand for training is huge; every towboat, fishing vessel and ferry needs trained people on board," said Capt. Bob Kitching, founder of MEA and President of WMI. "Training institutions cannot produce enough people to meet industry needs."

Changes to the Canada Shipping Act in 2001 require that any commercial vessel operator have appropriate certifications, which significantly increased the need for nautical education. VIU and MEA have been offering nautical training in partnership since 2005, but the new institute will expand the scope of training, with a pool capable of holding a lifeboat and a mock-up of a ship’s superstructure for firefighting.  WMI’s training pool is currently under construction, with completion scheduled for this fall.

VIU President, Dr. Ralph Nilson said the new institute is a significant expansion for VIU. "This is a new chapter in marine education on the Island, and we’re fortunate to have Bob and his many years of experience behind WMI," he said. "We know that an average of 75 per cent of this industry is over 55 years of age. It’s a great time for young people to get started on a meaningful career path."

"It’s an opportunity for current mates and masters to upgrade their certificates and for young people to start a career from this part of the world," Kitching said. "The industry offers particularly attractive job opportunities that are very well paid." He said deckhands can expect to be earning around $55,000 a year to start and with initiative, could double that in 10 years as they take on positions of increased responsibility. Between sea time and time off, mariners typically work 150 -155 days for a year’s salary.

"WMI is a win, win and win partnership. The mariner gains with the availability of high quality training on Vancouver Island and throughout Western Canada, VIU is able to increase its service and reach more students, and the partnership injects maritime education into the academic stream," said Kitching, who expects to nearly double the number of student training hours this year.

Dennis Silvestrone, VIU’s Dean of Adult & Continuing Education, said the new partnership is exciting. "VIU places a high value on providing quality education that meets regional needs, particularly for those communities on Vancouver Island and coastal British Columbia. This relationship will enhance access to much needed training and support for those who wanting to work in the marine industry, enable local residents to obtain quality employment, strengthen local marine-related businesses, and support community economic development."

All upcoming fall 2008 and spring 2009 courses can be viewed through VIU’s Centre for Continuing Studies website at www.viu.ca/ccs/courses/marine or at MEA’s site at www.maritimeed.com.