New Atlantic Canada branch launch will improve access to IMarEST benefits
Last Friday, we launched a new IMarEST branch for Atlantic Canada alongside local partners, including Memorial University’s Fisheries and Marine Institute and Oceans Advance. The branch will allow marine professionals, who work in the fields of engineering, science and technology, to connect with our global community.
The launch event was attended by Honourable Andrew Parsons, KC - Minister of Industry, Energy and Technology, marine professionals, and local media. It was held at Memorial University (Marine Institute), St John and spearheaded by new branch chair, Ashley Noseworthy and Shelley Petten.
Our CEO, Chris Goldsworthy, who travelled to the event, commented: “The launch of this new Canadian branch will ensure marine professionals in the region get access to a range of benefits including technical lectures, conferences, networking events, career support and professional growth. I am immensely grateful to the voluntary branch officers for the dedication they have shown in getting this initiative off the ground.”
Ashley Noseworthy, President / CEO, Edgewise Environmental Ltd. and IMarEST training provider, is excited by the opportunities the new branch will bring. "I am honored to chair Canada’s first IMarEST branch. This launch, after nearly a year of effort, offers ocean professionals in Atlantic Canada the chance to connect with a global network and contribute to the international marine community.”
The province’s Minister of Industry, Energy and Technology, the Honourable Andrew Parsons, KC, was on hand for the launch. “Newfoundland and Labrador is a leader in innovation in the ocean technology sector and the Government of Newfoundland and Labrador recognizes the importance of this industry through continued support and investment,” said Minister Parsons. “The province's journey towards becoming a global leader in ocean innovation started with a recognition of the ocean's untapped possibilities. Our province is a leader because of the work of marine professionals and ocean pioneers, such as those at IMarEST, who continue to explore new ways to harness the ocean's power and uncover its potential.”
“Oceans Advance welcomes this opportunity to support the first Canadian branch of IMarEST and we are excited to explore partnership and collaboration openings with IMarEST,” stated Shelly Petten, Executive Director, Oceans Advance. “The international reach of IMarEST and the engagement of their members in providing informed and expert views in response to consultations and calls for evidence for the development of national, regional, and international regulation such as the UN's International Maritime Organization (IMO) provides amazing value for the Newfoundland and Labrador ocean technology ecosystem. Congratulations to all, especially the newest chapter Chair, Ashley Noseworthy, and welcome IMarEST to Canada.”
Dr. Paul Brett, Vice President, Memorial University (Marine Institute) believes IMarEST will elevate the region’s reputation as a powerhouse in oceans education, research and technology.
“The new branch offers a great opportunity for our students, young professionals, academia and industry to share our local expertise, broaden our global relationships to grow our oceans sector at home and bring our knowledge to the world,” said Dr. Brett.
For information on joining the IMarEST visit our membership pages.