
The Opportunity for Rewarding Contributions to Canada’s Sustainable Development of the Ocean
Submitted by: Melody Pardoe, Chief Engagement Officer, Canada’s Ocean Supercluster
When Canadians think about the ocean, what comes to mind? Unique and rewarding careers that span everything from robotics to data analysis to clean energy, or do they think of whale watching, sea kayaking, fishing and surfing? In addition to recreation and nourishment, we hope that more and more people think of the ocean as a place for economic prosperity and a source for a rewarding career.
Nearly 30% of the world’s population lives along ocean coasts. With the longest coastline in the world, Canadians have the option to live in hundreds of coastal communities, all with unique cultures and economic opportunities. Living and working close to the ocean is extremely rewarding, something I personally recommend everyone try if they have the opportunity.
Canadian ocean companies are developing new technologies that are at the forefront of mitigating climate change and modernising traditional industries such that we are learning more about the ocean and lessening the harmful impacts on our shared aquatic global ecosystem. These solutions will allow us to sustainably meet the increasing demand for protein, decarbonize marine transportation of goods and people, transition to clean energy to power the world, and collect the data we need to monitor and operate in our ocean environment with a reduced footprint. It is through technology, collaboration and respectful relationships with Indigenous peoples that we will enjoy a thriving sustainable ocean economy. It’s exciting to know that the hundreds of small (and growing) businesses involved in Ocean Supercluster projects are leading the way with ocean innovation globally, and these companies are hiring – there are thousands of available jobs being created in ocean industries.
Our team recently took a deep dive into the jobs currently advertised by our member companies, and the range of opportunities are vast. We found that more than half of these roles required technical competency (e.g. engineer, technician, software developer, etc.) and just over 25% were senior management positions. The Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) anticipates that by 2030, the world’s ocean economy will double to $3 trillion (USD) outpacing the general global economy by a factor of nearly 20%. If you have never worked in an ocean industry, I encourage you to consider a new adventure, contributing to this momentous growth.
Please get in touch with us to become a member or follow us on social media to hear about the amazing things OSC members are building. In addition, here are a few places to start exploring ocean careers:
- SOI Foundation – Ocean Careers
- Schmidt Marine – Jobs
- COVE – Work in Ocean Tech
- OTCNS – Careers
- Ocean Careers NL
Canada is an ocean nation; how will you get involved? I’m always open to connecting, please feel welcome to reach out on LinkedIn.