One of Four Accelerated Ocean Solutions Program Projects Announced Today

Watch the video announcement here… 

Today Canada’s Ocean Supercluster announced four new projects with a total value of $4.5 million from its Accelerated Ocean Solutions Program (AOSP) stream including the Ocean Energy Smart Grid Integration Project. This Ontario-led project brings together SMEs and other partners in ocean innovation to provide cost-effective integration of ocean energy generators into communities.

With a total project value of $975,000, the Ocean Supercluster will provide $633,750 in funding for the project, with $341,250 coming from industry partners. The Ocean Energy Smart Grid Integration Project is led by BMT partnered with Sustainable Marine, University of Victoria, Rainhouse, and Turtle Island Innovation and together they will commercialize the integration of ocean energy solutions to help reduce the dependence of diesel power generation in rural communities and increase the opportunity for use of renewable sources of energy.

The Ocean Energy Smart Grid Integration Project will develop a single controller that has algorithms for different communities, whereas currently there is a bespoke design for each community. With this solution, algorithms are selected and parameterized based on ratings of the equipment. The development of this technology will not only support the greening of energy for communities of all sizes with global market opportunity, but it will also create new economic activity, build capabilities in ocean energy smart grid integration, and create five new jobs.

The International Energy Agency’s Technology Collaboration Programme on Ocean Energy Systems (OES) recently released a report called Ocean Energy in Islands and Remote Coastal Areas, which highlights the market opportunity for ocean energy technologies in remote areas due to the high cost of electricity, as is it is often supplied by diesel generators, and where the electricity demand is small, infrastructure such as submarine cables to connect to utility networks cannot be economically justified.

Canada’s Ocean Supercluster is an industry-led transformative cluster focused on tackling the shared challenges across ocean sectors through a collaborative program designed to accelerate the development and commercialization of globally-relevant solutions, while also building a highly-capable, inclusive workforce. To encourage innovation and trigger new industry investment during these challenging times, the Ocean Supercluster supplemented its core programs with an additional project stream called Accelerated Ocean Solutions Program (AOSP). This enables the development of smaller projects on a shorter timeline that deliver tangible outcomes, while continuing to build resiliency in our ocean sectors.

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“The Ocean Supercluster is driving innovation in the ocean economy by investing in areas where Canada has a competitive edge. The four projects announced today demonstrate the depth of expertise that the Supercluster is fostering within the ocean economy, ranging from smart, green electricity grids to artificial intelligence-informed seafood traceability.”  The Honourable Navdeep Bains, Minister of Innovation, Science and Industry

“The projects we are funding under the Ocean Supercluster will play a vital role in Canada’s emerging blue economy.  Improving underwater imaging and offshore infrastructure inspections will allow us to grow our marine industries more safely and sustainably. Our government will continue to invest in ocean science and technology, so we can get more Canadians working on and in our oceans.” The Honourable Bernadette Jordan, Minister of Fisheries, Oceans and the Canadian Coast Guard

“The Ocean Energy Smart Grid Integration Project is an exciting new project from our Accelerated Ocean Solutions Program that will not only deliver new economic activity in ocean, but also help deliver environmental benefits by increasing the opportunity for renewable energy in communities of all sizes.” Kendra MacDonald, CEO, Canada’s Ocean Supercluster

“We are excited to partner with Canada’s Ocean Supercluster and our teammates at Sustainable Marine to further the development of a smart electrical grid solution for remote communities using ocean energy generators. The Accelerated Ocean Solutions Program of the Ocean Supercluster is providing a unique opportunity to advance a truly innovative system that we believe has the potential to transform energy distribution in remote coastal communities.” Darcy Byrtus, President of BMT in Canada

“This technology partnership has the potential to address energy challenges experienced by remote and island communities in Canada, and around the world. These challenges include economic vulnerability due to the volatility of fuel prices, a lack of supplier diversity, higher likelihoods of disruption, and high carbon footprints. The team at Sustainable Marine have demonstrated that we can produce clean and predictable power from tidal streams, and we are looking forward to working with BMT and the rest of team to turn the power we produce into dispatchable power that can displace fossil fuel generation for island and remote coastal communities.” Jason Hayman, CEO of Sustainable Marine

One of Four Accelerated Ocean Solutions Program Projects Announced Today

Watch the video announcement here… 

Today Canada’s Ocean Supercluster announced four new projects with a total value of $4.5 million from its Accelerated Ocean Solutions Program (AOSP) stream including the Automated Pipeline Payload for Small AUVs Project. This Ontario-led project will develop a commercial survey payload for portable AUVs in response to expanding market demand for more efficient ocean floor inspection capabilities, and create nine new jobs.

The ocean floor is home to a growing body of aging critical infrastructure in a corrosive, difficult to access and poorly mapped environment. Much of this infrastructure, which includes pipelines, energy infrastructure, and cables requires regular inspection that has historically been conducted using slow ROVs deployed on large-crewed vessels that cannot achieve the same efficiency as small AUVs. The project output is a commercially ready small AUV payload, for immediate adoption by inspection companies to improve their capability and cost efficiency. This project will accelerate the proliferation of advanced ocean technology, strengthen the Canadian digital workforce, and deliver long term growth in Canada’s ocean economy.

With a total project value of $1.7 million, the Ocean Supercluster will provide $990,000 in funding for the project, with the balance coming from industry partners. The Automated Pipeline Payload for Small AUVs Project is led by Voyis with partners Ocean Floor Geophysics (OFG), EIVA, L3Harris OceanServer, and Ocean Infinity who will work together to revolutionize the offshore inspection industry.

This project catalyzes the development of strategic partnerships between Canadian and international companies, leveraging their individual strengths to deliver an innovative solution that enhances their competitiveness and expands the reach of Canada’s Ocean Supercluster.

Canada’s Ocean Supercluster is an industry-led transformative cluster focused on tackling the shared challenges across ocean sectors through a collaborative program designed to accelerate the development and commercialization of globally-relevant solutions, while also building a highly-capable, inclusive workforce. To encourage innovation and trigger new industry investment during these challenging times, the Ocean Supercluster supplemented its core programs with an additional project stream called Accelerated Ocean Solutions Program (AOSP). This enables the development of smaller projects on a shorter timeline that deliver tangible outcomes, while continuing to build resiliency in our ocean sectors.

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Quotes

“The Ocean Supercluster is driving innovation in the ocean economy by investing in areas where Canada has a competitive edge. The four projects announced today demonstrate the depth of expertise that the Supercluster is fostering within the ocean economy, ranging from smart, green electricity grids to artificial intelligence-informed seafood traceability.”  The Honourable Navdeep Bains, Minister of Innovation, Science and Industry

“The projects we are funding under the Ocean Supercluster will play a vital role in Canada’s emerging blue economy.  Improving underwater imaging and offshore infrastructure inspections will allow us to grow our marine industries more safely and sustainably. Our government will continue to invest in ocean science and technology, so we can get more Canadians working on and in our oceans.” The Honourable Bernadette Jordan, Minister of Fisheries, Oceans and the Canadian Coast Guard

“We are excited to announce this Ontario-led project and provide almost $1 million in funding for the development of an innovative solution that will not only respond to the growing demand for more efficient ocean floor inspection capabilities, but also build strong cross-sectoral partnerships, and create jobs.” Kendra MacDonald, CEO, Canada’s Ocean Supercluster

“We are excited to announce our new project made possible by Canada’s Ocean Supercluster and are confident that we have the perfect team to deliver a truly innovative solution that will help shift the offshore survey industry towards automation and sustainable operations. The 3D laser and colour images made possible with Voyis’ technology bring a level of resolution and understanding not previously achievable on small platforms. For more information on Voyis visit https://voyis.com.” Chris Gilson, General Manager, Voyis

“The OFG iCP system is a proven technology that has been deployed commercially for AUV pipeline inspections in deep-water applications on four continents.  Non-contact AUV integrated Cathodic Protection (iCP) is a key component in the adoption of AUV pipeline inspection by the owners, insurers and operators of subsea pipelines and infrastructure. OFG is the only company globally with a proven AUV iCP data collection and processing system that allows for anomalies and the overall system health to be analysed in near real-time offshore. The support of Canada’s Ocean Supercluster (OSC) in this project will allow OFG and our partners to develop a system for smaller light logistics AUV, increasing the efficiency and data quality at a lower cost to the subsea industry.  This project comes with a unique set of challenges and risks, but also with an opportunity to serve a much larger pipeline inspection market in shallow water; a perfect place to apply the collaborative model promoted by the OSC.” Matthew Kowalczyk, CEO of OFG

ABOUT OFG:

Since its inception Ocean Floor Geophysics has consistently developed and operated innovative marine geophysical systems to provide new perspectives to our clients. We provide data acquisition and analysis services that were previously unavailable by integrating magnetic, EM, CSEM/MT, gravity, chemical, and hydrographic sensors and systems deployed on AUVs, ASV/USVs, ROVs and towed systems. OFG provides you with tools to lower your exploration, inspection, and development risk. Better data. Better decisions. For more information on OFG visit www.oceanfloorgeophysics.com.

One of Four Accelerated Ocean Solutions Program Projects Announced Today

Watch the video announcement here… 

Today Canada’s Ocean Supercluster announced four new projects with a total value of $4.5 million from its Accelerated Ocean Solutions Program (AOSP) stream including the Tallybot Project. Through the development of automation and predictive machine learning algorithms, branded Tallybots, this project represents the next generation of seafood processing powered by traceability and production software focused on improved efficiency and quality, and environmental benefits as a result of reduced waste.

With a total project value of $842,000 the Ocean Supercluster will provide $500,000 in funding for the project, with the balance coming from industry partners. The Tallybot Project is led by British Columbia-based company ThisFish Inc., with partners Orca Specialty Food, Hardy Buoys Smoke Fish Ltd, McGill University, York University, and Eurofish. Together they will collaborate on the development of Tallybots embedded into ThisFish’s existing Tally software that automates and digitizes the collection of data in seafood processors.

The project team expects to be one of the first in the world to embed Artificial Intelligence (AI) into seafood production and traceability software. Tallybots will analyze the large datasets created by ThisFish’s Tally production and traceability software to help processors maximize yields, improve quality and reduce data errors as well as noncompliance. The project may also extend the AI technology to fishing vessels to improve catch handling, freezing and storage at sea.

Canada’s Ocean Supercluster is an industry-led transformative cluster focused on tackling the shared challenges across ocean sectors through a collaborative program designed to accelerate the development and commercialization of globally-relevant solutions, while also building a highly-capable, inclusive workforce. To encourage innovation and trigger new industry investment during these challenging times, the Ocean Supercluster supplemented its core programs with an additional project stream called Accelerated Ocean Solutions Program (AOSP). This enables the development of smaller projects on a shorter timeline that deliver tangible outcomes, while continuing to build resiliency in our ocean sectors.

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Quotes

“The Ocean Supercluster is driving innovation in the ocean economy by investing in areas where Canada has a competitive edge. The four projects announced today demonstrate the depth of expertise that the Supercluster is fostering within the ocean economy, ranging from smart, green electricity grids to artificial intelligence-informed seafood traceability.”  The Honourable Navdeep Bains, Minister of Innovation, Science and Industry

“The projects we are funding under the Ocean Supercluster will play a vital role in Canada’s emerging blue economy.  Improving underwater imaging and offshore infrastructure inspections will allow us to grow our marine industries more safely and sustainably. Our government will continue to invest in ocean science and technology, so we can get more Canadians working on and in our oceans.” The Honourable Bernadette Jordan, Minister of Fisheries, Oceans and the Canadian Coast Guard

“The fishery is an incredibly important part of Canada’s economy with significant export opportunity. We are proud to provide $500,000 for the Tallybot Project that will help drive the next generation of seafood processing through traceability and production software that delivers improved efficiency and quality, environmental benefits, and increased economic activity and opportunity in the industry.” Kendra MacDonald, CEO, Canada’s Ocean Supercluster

“Seafood processing faces many problems that can be solved by artificial intelligence. Because of the natural variability of fish, such as species, fish size, seasonality, fishing zone, catch method and so on, seafood processors often have difficulty predicting production and quality outcomes, such as yields. There are simply too many variables. That’s a perfect problem for our new Tallybot technology, whose core strengthen will be its ability to take numerous variables to accurately make predictions and automate processes.” Eric Enno Tamm, CEO of ThisFish Inc.

Leading Industry Partners Come Together from Canada’s West and East Coasts

Watch the Live Video Announcement Here…

Today Canada’s Ocean Supercluster (OSC) announced its 16^th project with a total project value of more than $3 million. The Digital Ship In-Service Support Project comes from the OSC’s Accelerated Ocean Solutions Program and brings together two Canadian marine industry leaders from Canada’s west and east coasts to develop and commercialize 3D digital twin capabilities that will help make Canada more globally competitive, drive export opportunities, and create jobs in the marine sector.

Led by British Columbia-based Seaspan Shipyards together with partner and Newfoundland and Labrador-based, Genoa Design International, the Digital Ship In-Service Support Project will receive $2 million from Canada’s Ocean Supercluster with the balance of funding coming from the project participants. This represents the first Ocean Supercluster project to be led out of Canada’s west coast. The relationship between Seaspan and Genoa was originally built under Canada’s National Shipbuilding Strategy (NSS) and continues to thrive today including a teaming partnership for Canada’s future Polar Icebreaker program. This type of outcome is exactly what the NSS was intended to create.

The project will develop new integrated capabilities for vessel management and maintenance through an advanced technology platform that will help vessel designers, builders, operators and maintainers more efficiently manage vessel lifecycle; reduce down-time for repair and maintenance by providing predictive information; improve vessel design and construction to reduce costs; and integrate multiple data sources by leveraging the language of visualization. The Digital Ship In-Service Support Project makes this possible through its ability to provide:

• Data streams to manage vessel maintenance and predict maintenance issues;
• Dynamically-updated representations of vessels and their subsystems;
• Virtual reality to visually interrogate and interact with 3D digital twin data;
• A network of vessel sensors that report on the condition of the vessel and its subsystems; and
• Advanced artificial intelligence and machine learning algorithms.

Canada’s Ocean Supercluster is an industry-led transformative cluster focused on tackling the shared challenges across ocean sectors through a collaborative program designed to accelerate the development and commercialization of globally-relevant solutions, while also building a highly-capable, inclusive workforce. To encourage innovation and trigger new industry investment during these challenging times, the Ocean Supercluster supplemented its core programs with an additional project stream called Accelerated Ocean Solutions Program (AOSP). This enables the development of smaller projects on a shorter timeline that deliver tangible outcomes, while continuing to build resiliency in our ocean sector.

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QUOTES

“The Ocean Supercluster is creating opportunities for Canadian businesses to come together from coast to coast, leading to new and innovative technologies that will solve real-life challenges faced by the ocean sector. The Digital Ship In-Service Project has the potential to distinguish Canada in a multi-billion-dollar global market while driving exports and new high-quality jobs.” The Honourable Navdeep Bains, Minister of Innovation, Science and Industry

“This is a project that has been built on an exciting partnership between industry leading companies from Canada’s west and east coasts that will drive new export opportunities, increase our global competitiveness, and create jobs. Collaboration is at the very foundation of what Canada’s Ocean Supercluster is all about, and we can’t wait to see the game-changing outcomes that are delivered by Seaspan and Genoa Design through this exciting new project.” Kendra MacDonald, CEO, Canada’s Ocean Supercluster

“The marine industry is at an exciting time of innovation, where advanced digital technologies are enabling us to fundamentally transform how we build and maintain ships. With the support of Canada’s Ocean Supercluster and the Government of Canada, this Digital Ship In-Service project will bring new powerful and predictive capabilities for vessel management and maintenance and further Canada’s leadership in this important industry.” Dave Belton, Director, Strategy and Business Development, Seaspan Shipyards 

“This shared initiative has the power to transform the global shipbuilding industry, and with the support of the Canada’s Ocean Supercluster and the Government of Canada, it begins right here. As the foundation for the Digital Twin, the 3D model offers an incredible tool for collaboration, evaluation, and decision making. Together with long-time partner, Seaspan Shipyards, we look forward to maximizing its potential and building upon its proven success to advance this industry.” Laurie Balan, Chief Technical Officer, Genoa Design International 

“Digital Twins are one of the top focus areas of the Royal Canadian Navy’s Digital Strategy.   Anchored by Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning, Digital Twins incorporate real-time operating data from the physical platform and offer the possibility of optimizing the operation and maintenance of future naval systems.  Canadian companies like Seaspan and Genoa have a key role to play in developing Digital Twin capabilities.  This project is one great example of Canadian-led innovations being developed in alignment with one of the key priorities of the RCN ”

Capt(N) Jacques Olivier, Director Digital Navy, Royal Canadian Navy

Media Contacts:

Nancy Andrews

Canada’s Ocean Supercluster

nancy.andrews@oceansupercluster.ca

709.725.7070

Erika Kelland

Genoa Design International

ekelland@genoadesign.com

709.690.4174

Keelan Green

Seaspan Shipyards

green@prospectus.ca

613-220-2016

Kendra MacDonald, CEO, Canada’s Ocean Supercluster

ABOUT SEASPAN SHIPYARDS

Seaspan Shipyards, a division of Seaspan ULC, is a leader in Canada’s shipbuilding and ship repair industry. With modern facilities and a dedicated workforce of 2,700 in North Vancouver and Victoria, the company has proven itself to be a trusted partner on a range of complex projects for both government and the private sector.

Seaspan Shipyards is proud to be Canada’s chosen non-combat shipbuilder under the National Shipbuilding Strategy (NSS). In this capacity, the company is building state-of-the-art ships in Canada for the Canadian Coast Guard and Royal Canadian Navy. Through its NSS-related work, Seaspan Shipyards is creating jobs, generating economic benefits and rebuilding Canada’s shipbuilding and marine industries.

SOCIAL MEDIA

Twitter: @MoreThanShips

LinkedIn: Seaspan ULC

Instagram: @SeaspanULC

YouTube: Seaspan Shipyards

Dave Belton, Director, Strategy and Business Development, Seaspan Shipyards 

ABOUT GENOA DESIGN INTERNATIONAL

Genoa Design International has been providing production design and 3D modeling services to shipbuilding and offshore industries from here in Newfoundland and Labrador since 1995. In that time, they’ve become one of the most sought-after production design firms in the North American shipbuilding market with a commitment to quality as an ISO 9001:2015 certified organization.

With a team of more than 200 designers, engineers, naval architects, administrators, and technical support staff dispersed between four locations in Mount Pearl, NL; Vancouver, BC; Halifax, NS; and New Orleans, US, Genoa provides expertise and dedicated support throughout the shipbuilding process.

Currently, Genoa is active in major programs such as Canada’s National Shipbuilding Strategy (NSS) as well as commercial and government contracts in the United States. Genoa is proud to play an important role in the NSS, which includes the design of modern, ice-capable ships for the Canadian Coast Guard and icebreakers for the US Coast Guard and Navy.

SOCIAL MEDIA

Twitter: @genoadesign

LinkedIn: Genoa Design International Ltd.

Instagram: @genoadesign

Facebook: Genoa Design

YouTube: Genoa Design

Laurie Balan, Chief Technical Officer, Genoa Design International 

Canada’s Ocean Supercluster Announces $3.1M Rutter IoT Project

Watch the video announcement here..

(St. John’s, NL) – Together with project partners, today Canada’s Ocean Supercluster announced its 15^th ocean project. Led from St. John’s, Newfoundland and Labrador, the newest $3.1 million project called the Rutter Internet of Things (IoT) Project will transform and migrate Rutter systems into an IoT enabled solution, offering remote monitoring as a managed service with specialty radar system data acquisition, and cloud-based storage and analytics, while also creating 12 new jobs, including four at project implementation and eight at project completion.

Rutter’s sigma S6 Suite of radar processing equipment are used in a wide range of industries including offshore renewable energy, environmental monitoring, cruise, governmental, and oil and gas. Rutter products are used extensively in the Canadian offshore and have been delivered into more than 40 countries.

The Rutter IoT Project platform will enable the archiving of remote sensing data from those Canadian assets and from other jurisdictions including: pack ice drift and ice deformation data; iceberg tracking; ice feature information (water leads, ridges); target detection and tracking; wave and current data; oil spill alerts, tracking and outlines; radar imaging; plus other capabilities.

The Rutter IoT Project is led by Rutter in collaboration with its partner, Cenovus Energy (Husky Energy), who will provide in-kind support through access to vessels for data collection, and research and development efforts including the installation and testing of concepts and for the demonstration of outcomes. Canada’s Ocean Supercluster is providing $721,560 in funding to this project, matching Rutter’s investment of $721,560. The National Research Council of Canada Industrial Research Assistance Program (NRC IRAP) is providing advisory services and up to $499,750 in research and development funding to Rutter for this project. In addition, funding support is being provided by the Province of Newfoundland and Labrador in the amount of $743,823.

The new Ocean Supercluster project will increase operational efficiencies, foster collaboration between ocean sectors, and enable marine-related research delivered with greater accuracy, efficiency, and access to customers. For the research community, this project will provide the ability to receive real-time data from offshore operations that can be used to support their research and validation work in ice drift modelling, oceanographic forecasting, oil spill drift modelling, and other areas.

For customers, the Rutter IoT Project is a turn-key solution that gives clients the ability to centralize critical radar information into operation centers and to share relevant data on-demand with outside entities such as the Coast Guard and others. This is a new and exciting service that provides previously unavailable data to those who can take advantage of temporary access to information to help focus their activity. Customers also have the option of sharing defined data on an ongoing basis with adjacent industries, offshore oil and gas and the fishery for example, while protecting commercially-sensitive data.

Canada’s Ocean Supercluster is an industry-led transformative cluster focused on tackling the shared challenges across ocean sectors through a collaborative program designed to accelerate the development and commercialization of globally-relevant solutions that will help drive sustainable and inclusive ocean growth in Canada.

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Quotes

“By investing in areas where Canada has a competitive edge, like offshore technologies, the Ocean Supercluster is driving innovation in the ocean economy. This project will not only improve remote ocean operations, but also strengthen Canada’s position as a leader in specialty radar system data acquisition as well as, and cloud-based storage and analytics. This kind of cross-sector collaboration is exactly how Superclusters are helping Canada build a strong, national brand in the industry and give Canadian businesses more opportunities to reach new markets.” The Honourable Navdeep Bains, Minister of Innovation, Science and Industry

“Atlantic Canada is a global leader in ocean technology. The Ocean Supercluster builds on that strength, so that our companies can take on the world, and thrive here at home.”                    The Honourable Seamus O’Regan, Minister of Natural Resources

“Rutter has a strong history of cutting edge technological development and commercialization. Support from the Government of Newfoundland and Labrador will enhance the company’s already broad innovative capabilities, while increasing efficiency and safety for companies in the marine technology sector.” The Honourable Andrew Parsons, Minister of Industry, Energy and Technology, Government of Newfoundland and Labrador

“The availability and access to data will become increasingly important as we grow what is becoming an increasingly digital ocean economy. This collaboration between Rutter and Husky Energy will generate new activity in ocean, create new jobs, and provide radar ocean data that is important for decision making and operations across ocean sectors. The Ocean Supercluster is incredibly proud to announce our 15^th project today with more announcements coming in the weeks and months ahead.” Kendra MacDonald, CEO, Canada’s Ocean Supercluster

“Since 1998, Rutter has been on the leading edge of ocean technology – developing innovative, best-in-class marine radar augmentation and imaging tools for navigating in ice, detecting oil spills, monitoring wave and currents and for security, safety, and sovereignty applications. Today, we are thrilled to embark on the “next wave” of Radar-as-a-Service (RaaS) — leveraging the power of cloud technology to develop new applications for mariners, scientists, offshore renewable energy and oil and gas operators worldwide.“ Fraser Edison, President and Chairman of the Board, Rutter Inc

“We have used a number of Rutter’s technologies over the years, so this opportunity was a natural fit with our goal of continuous improvement in ice management operations and monitoring.  By providing access to environmental data from vessel transits, we will help Rutter to prove up their technology and create better decision-making tools for all ocean users.”

Jonathan Brown, Senior Vice-President, Cenovus Energy (Husky Energy) Atlantic Region

Media Contacts:

Nancy Andrews

Canada’s Ocean Supercluster

nancy.andrews@oceasupercluster.ca

709.725.7070

Eric Humber

Government of Newfoundland and Labrador

erichumber@gov.nl.ca

709.725.9655

Stephen Hale

Rutter

shale@rutter.ca

709.697.0439

Colleen McConnell

Cenovus Energy (Husky Energy) Husky Energy

colleen.mcconnell@huskyenergy.com

709.724.3504

Project to Create 150 Internships, Engage 250 Employers and 2500 Youth 18-30 Years

WATCH THE ANNOUNCEMENT VIDEO HERE

Today, Canada’s Ocean Supercluster announced a new innovation ecosystem project called Blue Futures Pathways Project. Focused on building capabilities and the development of workers to support the growth of Canada’s ocean economy, the total project value is $2.4 million where the Ocean Supercluster will provide almost $1.5 million in funding with the balance coming from project partners.

Blue Futures Pathways will connect youth across Canada with education and employment, and support participants in developing a successful career in the sustainable blue economy. The project is supportive of all youth aged 18-30 and will have a particular focus on the inclusion and inspiration of under-represented, remotely located, and Indigenous people.

The project is led by the Students on Ice Foundation with partners including the Centre for Ocean Ventures and Entrepreneurship (COVE), ECO Canada, and with the support of Mitacs. Together they will create 150 internships and guide youth towards sustainable blue economy careers, building and launching a digital platform called the Port where employers and supporters can communicate opportunities to the next generation of workers.

The Port will provide employers with tools, training and a support-network in how best to nurture youth, especially under-represented youth within their workplace. Participants will also receive training to prepare them for the specific dynamics and culture of the workplace where career-specific and personal growth-related mentorship connections will be cultivated on a dedicated program on the Port.  Mentorship will also form a strong part of the paid internships that will be piloted in a number of regions across the country. Blue Futures Pathways intends to provide youth with opportunities within ocean tech companies in Nova Scotia; engaging youth across the Arctic in monitoring ocean health; providing an understanding of suburban waste-water management in Ontario and the Prairies; and training the next generation of bio-monitors in British Columbia.

The Blue Futures Pathways project aims to engage at least 250 employers on the digital port, with at least 2,500 youth engaging in the sustainable blue economy training, mentoring, and employment opportunities made available through it. The target reach for the Port is 5 million impressions by August 2022.

Canada’s Ocean Supercluster is an industry-led transformative cluster that is growing Canada’s Ocean economy in a way that has never been done before. Focused on tackling the shared challenges across ocean sectors through a collaborative program, the Ocean Supercluster is accelerating the development and commercialization of globally-relevant solutions, creating new economic activity, and building a highly-capable, inclusive workforce.

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Quotes

“I am proud to see Canada’s Ocean Supercluster forging an exciting path for one of our most important resources – Canadian youth.  The Blue Futures Pathways program will inspire Canadian youth and help them access opportunities to lead and succeed in the emerging Sustainable Blue Economy.”

– William Amos, Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Innovation, Science and Industry

“This is about helping build our future in oceans and equipping young people aged 18-30 with the right skills at the right time, removing barriers and providing the training, mentoring and support they need to pursue a career in ocean. We are proud to make an investment of $1.5 million to this $2.4 million project that will see the creation of 150 internships, and engage at least 250 employers and 2,500 youth in the digital port.”

– Kendra MacDonald, CEO, Canada’s Ocean Supercluster

“As the Sustainable Blue Economy emerges in Canada, it is important for youth to be well-positioned to participate in, and lead its success. Students on Ice is a global leader in environmental education and youth engagement, with more than 20 years of experience leading educational expeditions to the Arctic, Antarctic, and across Canada’s vast coastline during Canada C3. Bringing together Indigenous and non-Indigenous youth, educators and partners to learn about and help conserve our vital ecosystems is core to our mission. We look forward to  growing our impact on youth and on the future of Canada’s ocean and freshwater resources through Blue Futures Pathways.”

– Geoff Green, C.M., Founder & President of the Students on Ice Foundation

“We are enthusiastic about the benefits of this project to the broader workforce development needs of the industry across Canada. We look forward to partnering with SOI and the other named partners, such as ECO Canada, to elevate the opportunities for youth, and particularly youth from under-represented workforce groups, to gain exposure to and experience with the ocean and freshwater industry through robust training, internship and mentoring programs.”

– Dr. Sherry Scully, Executive Director, COVE Workforce Initiative

“ECO Canada (ECO) is pleased to offer our support for Blue Futures Pathways. This exciting initiative involving education, internship, employability and workforce training is a direct response to current workforce needs within the Sustainable Blue Economy and we are happy to harness our team’s talents, expertise and networks to ensure a successful project outcome.”

– Kevin Nilsen, EP, PMP, President & CEO, ECO Canada

“QIA is proud of our work to protect our oceans and we relish opportunities to work with  organizations who celebrate the centrality of Indigenous voices in conservation efforts. We look forward to continuing our partnership with Students on Ice to allow even more Inuit youth to explore educational, mentorship and employment opportunities connected to the blue economy.

– P.J. Akeeagok, President, Qikiqtani Inuit Association

“The Blue Futures Pathways Project will enable First Nations youth to be exposed to a range of sectors in the Blue Economy including shipping, science, fishing, tourism, conservation, technology, renewable energy, food security and policy. We must equip our young people with the skills and knowledge to mutually benefit from these resources. The Assembly of First Nations is pleased that the Blue Futures Project will provide First Nations youth with education and training to develop the skills they need for sustainable careers. We are in support of SOI’s Blue Futures Project as it supports a sustainable future for all generations to come.”

– Perry Bellegarde, National Chief, Assembly of First Nations

“I am honored to contribute to the Blue Futures Pathways project that will specifically focus on eDNA education and application in indigenous communities, which will be carried out through a series of internships opportunities. In doing so, I will help to develop and deliver training packages, coordinate the genomic analysis of samples acquired, and provide outreach to communities to explore how this new technology can assist their management, regulation and policy decisions pertaining to fisheries and industries that impact ocean ecosystems. I look forward to supporting the SOIF on this exciting project empowering indigenous youth to become leaders of the blue economy.”

– Kristi Miller-Saunders, PhD, Research Scientist, Fisheries and Oceans Canada

Media Contact:

Nancy Andrews

Canada’s Ocean Supercluster

709.725.7070

nancy.andrews@oceansupercluster.ca

(Fredericton, NB) – Today, Canada’s Ocean Supercluster announced its newest project, CARIS Cloud Technology Project, from its Accelerated Ocean Solutions Program (AOSP) stream. With an increasing number of private industry companies and government agencies seeking accelerated solutions to remote operations and training, this project will develop and utilize highly specialized software in the Cloud that will reduce the need for software operators in the field and enable increased processing and quality control from an office or home setting.

The CARIS Cloud Technology (CCT) Project has a total project value of $2.1 million with $944,365 in funding from the Ocean Supercluster and the balance of funding coming from project partners. Led by Teledyne CARIS together with partners Ocean Floor Geophysics (OFG), the Marine Institute of Memorial University of Newfoundland, University of New Brunswick Ocean Mapping Group, CIDCO, and H2i, this project will bring efficiencies, cost savings and reduce human risk particularly for higher risk, high priority areas where measurements are currently conducted using regular field surveys.

The technology developed in this project will be in service around the world, including here in Canada. Hydrographic offices such as The Canadian Hydrographic Service (CHS) will benefit from having commercial access to the technology developed in this project to support remote operations for ocean mapping and charting. The CHS publishes and maintains nearly a thousand nautical charts and hundreds of publications for the benefit of safely navigating Canadian waters for vessel operators in national defense, fishing and industry, international shipping, recreation and tourism.  The cloud software platform will also benefit students and professionals by offering a new approach to virtual training assisted by the use of specialized software products in the cloud.

Testing and integration of these new tools and technologies as a project partner allows OFG to maintain their leading position in autonomous underwater vehicle (AUV) survey for data quality and efficiency. Lowering the number of personnel offshore through the cloud and remote processing workflows not only lowers OFG’s customer’s HSE risk for offshore operations, but also reduces risks to schedule and personnel availability amid the changing landscape of COVID-related travel restrictions.

Canada’s Ocean Supercluster is an industry-led transformative cluster focused on tackling the shared challenges across ocean sectors through a collaborative program designed to accelerate the development and commercialization of globally-relevant solutions, while also building a highly-capable, inclusive workforce. To encourage innovation and trigger new industry investment during these challenging times, the Ocean Supercluster supplemented its core programs with an additional project stream called Accelerated Ocean Solutions Program (AOSP). This enables the development of smaller projects on a shorter timeline that deliver tangible outcomes, while continuing to build resiliency in our ocean sectors.

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Quotes

“The need for innovative solutions to address modern challenges has never been greater, especially in the context of the current global pandemic. I am so pleased to see these remarkable Canadian businesses assemble from across Canada to work together to dramatically improve remote operation capabilities for Canada’s ocean sector. By working together and creating new possibilities for innovation, the Superclusters are taking Canada further, faster.” The Honourable Navdeep Bains, Minister of Innovation, Science and Industry

“Canada’s Ocean Supercluster is thrilled to announce the first New Brunswick-led project with partners that span the country. This is a demonstration of the kind of innovation, opportunities, and the realization of new economic activity that is possible when we work together. Knowing the global ocean economy is expected to grow to $3T USD by 2030, I believe it’s our time to emerge as a leader in ocean innovation.” Kendra MacDonald, CEO, Canada’s Ocean Supercluster

“We are driven to embark on this project in support of our clients who are being compelled to embrace working remotely not only by industry trends but also in the face of a global pandemic.  The Ocean Supercluster and the new Accelerated Oceans Solutions Program provided us with the ideal springboard for our vision to deliver what automation could look like and we are excited to partner in this Canadian initiative.” Sergio Marques, Director of Project Management

“Collaboration is the key to moving technology from idea to execution. The benefits of OFG working with Teledyne CARIS have already been demonstrated as members of the winning USV/ASV system for an XPRIZE. We look forward to building on that cooperation with our teammates on this AOSP project.”  Matthew Kowalczyk, OFG CEO.

Background

Teledyne CARIS is part of the Teledyne Imaging group. For 40 years, Teledyne CARIS has been the leading developer of marine mapping software. We offer a highly effective solution for near real-time processing, robust quality control of sonar data, and the creation and distribution of maps, charts, and digital datasets. For more information on Teledyne CARIS visit www.teledynecaris.com.

FOR DETAILS Teledyne CARIS, contact:

Jennifer Parham, Marketing Manager

Email: Jennifer.parham@teledyne.com

Since its inception Ocean Floor Geophysics has consistently developed and operated innovative marine geophysical systems to provide new perspectives to our clients. We provide data acquisition and analysis services that were previously unavailable by integrating magnetic, EM, CSEM/MT, gravity, chemical, and hydrographic sensors and systems deployed on AUVs, ASV/USVs, ROVs and towed systems. OFG provides you with tools to lower your exploration, inspection, and development risk. Better data. Better decisions. For more information on OFG visit www.oceanfloorgeophysics.com.

FOR DETAILS Ocean Floor Geophysics, contact:

Matthew Kowalczyk, CEO

Email: matthew.kowalczyk@oceanfloorgeophysics.com

You can watch the live announcement replay here…

 Canada’s Ocean Supercluster Announces Cluster Building Ocean Allies Project

One of four Ocean Supercluster Projects Announced Today in Dartmouth

Watch the Live Announcement Here…

(Dartmouth, NS) – Canada’s Ocean Supercluster announced four projects today including the cluster-building project called Ocean Allies. The Ocean Allies project has a total value of more than $420,000 where the Ocean Supercluster will provide $250,000 with the balance of funding coming from project partners. Led by Pisces Research Project Management Inc together with partners Upswing Solutions, Huntsman Marine Science Centre, Assembly of First Nations, BioNB, Centre for Ocean Ventures and Entrepreneurship (COVE), Irving Shipbuilding, Nova Scotia Business Inc, Ocean Technology Council of Nova Scotia, Ocean Frontier Institute, OceansAdvance, PanGeo Subsea, Synapse, Mitacs, and Ulnooweg, this project is designed to access, engage, and support a diverse ocean economy through targeted strategic activities across five work packages:

1. Defining Success: Evaluate the current state of Diversity, Equality & Inclusion (DE&I)  in Canada’s ocean sector, including engaging industry stakeholders to understand the key challenges they face. A final report will examine the current landscape and provide improvement recommendations for the industry.
2. Training: Improve inclusivity outcomes through hiring training and cross-cultural network training.
3. Changing Systems: Develop practical tools to help ocean sector companies address systemic barriers that prevent diverse communities from thriving in the ocean economy. The tailored DE&I toolkits will be piloted with five ocean companies with support to embed DE&I in their business strategies and operations.
4. Improving Access: Support future ocean workers through targeted networking opportunities, improved connectivity with the Ocean Supercluster’s Technology Leadership program, and by demystifying the concept of access through the creation of an actionable community framework. The aim is to increase business linkages between ocean companies and diverse talent pools.
5. Recognition and Support: Provide opportunities for peer connection, additional financial support for employers, and public recognition for great work.

Canada’s Ocean Supercluster is an industry-led transformative cluster focused on tackling the shared challenges across ocean sectors through a collaborative program designed to accelerate the development and commercialization of globally-relevant solutions, while also building a highly-capable, inclusive workforce. To encourage innovation and trigger new industry investment during these challenging times, the Ocean Supercluster supplemented its core programs with an additional project stream called Accelerated Ocean Solutions Program (AOSP). This enables the development of smaller projects on a shorter timeline that deliver tangible outcomes, while continuing to build resiliency in our ocean sectors.

Quotes

“Canada’s Ocean Supercluster is energizing the ocean sector through its support of innovation ecosystem projects, like Ocean Allies, that will engage partners across Atlantic Canada to support a diversified ocean economy. This project will help other Canadian companies and innovator access the ocean economy and provide innovative solutions to real-life ocean environment challenges.” The Honourable Navdeep Bains, Minister of Innovation, Science and Industry

“We are incredibly proud to announce the Ocean Allies Project knowing the incredible importance of achieving greater diversity, equality, and inclusion across our ocean sectors. Only when we remove barriers, build capabilities and connections, and create opportunities will we truly be on the path to realizing our full potential in ocean innovation.” Kendra MacDonald, CEO, Canada’s Ocean Supercluster

“Innovation in the ocean industries is an emerging opportunity for the New Brunswick economy. BioNB looks forward to leveraging our network in the bioeconomy to promote the Ocean Allies project activities and help introduce new diversity and inclusion strategies to some of our region’s most important employers.” – Jennifer O’Donnell, BioNB

“Reaching under-represented workers, and building awareness of the range of opportunities available to them in the Blue Economy is a key focus of the COVE Workforce Initiative.  Working with Ocean Allies and partners will amplify this work by cultivating an industry that is engaged, committed, and prepared to welcome diverse talent.” Sherry Scully, COVE

“The Ocean Allies initiative is an exceptional opportunity to invest in building a resilient, inclusive and sustainable Ocean Sector that is future ready. Upswing Solutions is excited to be involved in this pilot project alongside such a committed group of partners.” Allison Murray, Upswing Solutions

“Equity, Diversity and Inclusion are key aspects for growth and sustainability of our communities. The Huntsman Marine Science Centre applies these principles everyday amongst our own teammates and we look forward to applying our more than 50 years of ocean sector training and outreach to this important project.” Chris Bridger, Huntsman Marine Science Centre

“Decades of evidence have made it clear that Diverse, Equitable, and Inclusive workplaces lead to more sustainable, more productive, and more profitable businesses. An equitable and diverse workforce is key to growing a sustainable and healthy Ocean economy. The potential benefits of increasing equity and diversity in the Ocean economy, which has traditionally suffered from poor equity and diversity, has huge potential for impact in the Atlantic Region and beyond, particularly given the current additional challenges posed by the COVID19 pandemic. Ocean Allies will take a direct and focused approach to increasing Equity and Diversity in the Ocean sector and Synapse is excited to be a partner on this exciting project.” Justin Moores, CEO, Synapse

“I am so grateful to our partners and supporters for making this project a reality. So many people were involved in turning this project into reality. We know the ocean community wants to be a diverse and inclusive ocean community, and sometimes it’s hard. We’re here to help. Canada is a diverse nation, and it is one of our strengths. Ocean Allies is enabling the strength of Canada’s diversity in Canada’s ocean industry to foster our global leadership.” Kes Morton, CEO, Pisces Research Project Management

“Ships and the marine industry have been connecting people around the world and enabling economic activity and growth for thousands of years. In fact, 90% of world trade moves across the oceans, so it is important that the industry continues to have all voices at the table to draw on the variety of skills and experiences available. Irving Shipbuilding is pleased to support this Oceans Allies initiative through the National Shipbuilding Strategy.” Kevin McCoy, President, Irving Shipbuilding Inc.

“Three years ago, NSBI launched its “Exporters of diversity strategy” to nurture diverse businesses owners as exporters and to open doors for underrepresented populations across the province. To strengthen and accelerate our efforts, we are forging new partnerships – such as the Ocean Allies Project – who share our vision of a more inclusive workforce.” Laurel Broten, president and CEO, Nova Scotia Business Inc.

“Reaching under-represented workers, and building awareness of the range of opportunities available to them in the Blue Economy is a key focus of COVE Workforce Initiative. Working with Ocean Allies and partners will amplify this work by cultivating an industry that is engaged, committed, and prepared to welcome diverse talent.” Melanie Nadeau, CEO of COVE