bridge spring 2014

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NEWS FROM THE MARINE INSTITUTE IT'S A BIG WORLD.... CONNECTING WITH CADETS.... MARINE TYCOON.... FROM LAND TO SEA.... REMEMBERING A VISIONARY.... FIFTY YEARS AGO.... NORTHERN DIRECTION.... NAVIGATING THE SEAS.... MI NEWS.... TOP NOTCH.... DESIGNING WOMEN.... ELUSIVE PRIMITIVE SPECIES.... EXPANDING OCEAN CAPABILITY Y E A R S A G O I N R E T R O S P E C T Fifty

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The Bridge features the success of our students, alumni, faculty, staff, and industry partners and highlights how the Marine Institute is contributing to the future of the ocean industries in Canada and around the world.

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Page 1: Bridge Spring 2014

NEWS FROM THE MARINE INSTITUTE

IT'S A BIG WORLD.... CONNECTING WITH CADETS....

MARINE TYCOON.... FROM LAND TO SEA....

REMEMBERING A VISIONARY.... FIFTY YEARS

AGO.... NORTHERN DIRECTION.... NAVIGATING

THE SEAS.... MI NEWS.... TOP NOTCH....

DESIGNING WOMEN.... ELUSIVE PRIMITIVE

SPECIES.... EXPANDING OCEAN CAPABILITY

YEARS AGO

IN RETROSPECT

Fifty

Page 2: Bridge Spring 2014

innovative world oceans institute. With a special section dedicated to our 50th anniversary, we tell the story of who we are, how it all began, what we have accomplished and the success of our alumni. As you read through these pages, our hope is that you are inspired by the breadth of innovation, achievement, technology and students of our past, present and future.

Our feature article, ‘It’s a Big World’, illustrates the institute’s new student recruitment strategy, inspired by none other than MI alumni. We are proud of this fresh approach as it represents the impact MI is making in the Memorial University community and on youth within the province and around the world.

Join us in the spirit of celebration for MI’s past 50 years in this province and future 50 years as a growing world oceans institution.

days as an industry-specific training institution to an industry-linked education and applied research institution. Faculty, staff, students and alumni are banding together to celebrate 50 years of innovation, applied research and industry connections which have shaped MI into the world-class institution it is known as today.

The true story of MI’s success lies in the collaborative efforts of employees, industry partnerships and the graduates who work around the world. MI alumni are on the front lines in the fields of marine transportation, offshore oil and gas, fisheries and aquaculture and our newest endeavor in ocean technology. The institute has taken ownership of its degree programs and in the past five years has developed two new graduate programs and has become involved in a research-based masters which has grown our graduate students numbers from fewer than 20 to more than 170.

Thank you to all MI industry and government partners, students, alumni, faculty and staff for an incredible fifty years – here’s to another 50 more.

EDITORIALNAOMI OSBORNE, Public Relations & Communications Officer, Editor

Recognizing the past, showcasing the present and optimizing the future is the nature of the Marine Institute’s Golden Jubilee year.

This issue of The Bridge is presented with a fresh new design to reflect the progression of MI as an

VP MESSAGE GLENN BLACKWOOD, Vice-PresidentMemorial University of Newfoundland(Marine Institute)

The progression of the Fisheries and Marine Institute from its days as the College of Fisheries, Navigation, Marine Engineering and Electronics has been substantial. Over the past 50 years, MI has made a significant impact in the maritime sector, ocean technology and the fishing and aquaculture industries in Newfoundland and Labrador and globally.

2014 is a monumental year for MI. I am proud to have been involved with the progression of the institute since 1997, and at the helm of such an innovative team for the past nine years.

We are recognizing the institute’s past and its evolution from the early

VP MESSAGE + EDITORIAL

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04 It’s a big world / You don’t have to go far these days to see a Marine Institute advertisement featuring graduates in their careers.

06 Connecting with cadets / Engaging students is the main focus of the long-standing partnership between MI and Canship Ugland Ltd.

07 Marine tycoon / In Canada’s marine transportation industry, Dr. Captain Sidney Hynes is widely-known as a mover and a shaker.

08 From land to sea / Canadian Forces army reservist and MI nautical science student, Joachim Fagan fi nds his passion on the ocean.

IN RETROSPECT: FIFTY YEARS AGO

1 1 Remembering a visionary / The MI and Memorial community remembers Dr. Arthur May.

12 Fifty years ago / MI celebrates its 50th anniversary by paying homage to the past and looking ahead to the future.

14 Northern direction / Naval architecture alumni serving as part of the Transport Canada team leading the Canadian regulatory regime for the Arctic.

16 Navigating the seas / Recounting the journey of a MI 1969 alumnus, from the Indian Ocean to the harsh North Atlantic waters.

1 8 Top notch / 2014 MI graduate, Simon Rees, took a leap of faith to land his dream job as a naval architect with Gunboat.

20 MI news / Marine Institute announcements, events and initiatives.

22 Designing women / Aspiring female naval architects at the Marine Institute are paving the way for the future.

24 Expanding ocean capability / New lab is hub of ROV technology.

25 Save the date / Upcoming conferences and events.

26 Elusive primitive species / Research scientist within MI, zeroes in on emerging Atlantic hagfi sh fi sheries in NL.

27 How we measure up / MI statistics 2013-14

TOC

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: Tonya Malik Contact: P.O. Box 4920, St. John's, NL Canada A1C 5R3 Phone: 709.778.0677 Fax: 709.778.0672 Email: [email protected]

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IT'S A BIG WORLD

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messages and visuals evoking future students to visualize the same attributes and careers as MI alumni.

“Our graduates are career-driven, practical, hands-on and their credentials take them around the world,” said Angie Clarke, director, Student Affairs, MI. “We want future students to visualize themselves as achieving incredible career and personal milestones through an MI education.”

The Student Recruitment Office within the Student Affairs Department at MI is driving the campaign at the grassroots level connecting with potential students through presentations, open house sessions, campus tours and one-on-one conversations.

In recent years, the office has been strengthened with an expanded recruitment team, adopting more progressive enrolment practices and working in tandem with admissions, registration and faculty to improve the application and registration process to transition a student into the institute.

The recruitment team now includes a graduate student recruiter, two undergraduate student recruiters, an administrative position and an enrolment management coordinator. This progression has allowed the office to continue its commitment to the NL markets while dedicating efforts to further address strategic national and international markets.

The team is also making strides in improving the level and quality of engagement with each potential student they meet on the road or

on campus. Recruiters utilize social media, phone and email to connect with students to provide program and application information.

Coming from a background in undergraduate recruitment and conversion, Jennifer Howell, the institute’s enrolment management coordinator, has solidified the direction and focus of the office and identified both strategic linkages and opportunities since coming to MI in June 2013.

“One of the key components to a successful conversion plan is teamwork. I learned early on that this was an attribute that was evident at MI,” said Howell. “Through interactions with my direct team, faculty and various departments, it has been a pleasure to roll out this new campaign and all the initiatives that have come along with it.”

MI will continue to build campaign momentum as they re-engage with alumni, industry partners and schools during 2014-15 with updated materials featuring even more graduate photos and stories from industry and alumni.

It’s all part of a new recruitment marketing campaign launched in September 2013. Developed by the institute's Department of Marketing and Communications and the Department of Student Affairs, in conjunction with Upstream Marketing, the “It’s a Big World. Be at the Center of It.” campaign is the most far reaching and expansive campaign ever put forth by the institute. It has been grabbing the attention of potential students, parents and guidance counsellors throughout Atlantic Canada and beyond.

The recruitment strategy and campaign was inspired by MI graduates. Through a Facebook and Twitter campaign, the institute collected photos from MI graduates that depict real glimpses into their careers and lifestyles. It showcases real MI graduates at work and at play, giving future students insight into their life story though their own photographs and testimonials about their careers and experience at MI. This user generated content became the backbone for the concept and design for print and digital materials aimed at high school and graduate students and their influencers. The campaign initially consisted of a flyer, viewbook, parent/guidance counsellor resource guide, poster and PowerPoint presentation.

Further initiatives included a production and placement of three YouTube and cinema ads in St. John’s and Nova Scotia, booth displays, postcards, online and Facebook advertising, Metrobus transit advertising and print ads in national technology association publications.Social media is also abuzz with

You don’t have to go far these days to see a Marine Institute advertisement featuring graduates in their careers.

THE BRIDGE » MARINE INSTITUTE / 5

FEATURE ARTICLE

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INDUSTRY CONNECTION

He hopes to eventually acquire his Master Mariner licence to become a Captain.

CUL also recognizes the great benefit in connecting high school students with MI cadets, like Sparkes, to explain work on shuttle tankers, bulk carriers and tugs in the province’s most prominent industry. Working in conjunction with MI’s placement office, CUL features two MI cadets during the province’s annual Oil & Gas Week Energy Day event.

“Every year we try to have a male and female cadet from MI’s nautical science and marine engineering programs in our booth to speak about aspects of their career in this industry,” said Noseworthy. “We encourage MI cadets to be very honest with the students by providing good points of view, challenges in their program and life on board a vessel. We also ask them to speak on how CUL has helped them with the pursuit of their chosen field.”

As a Canadian ship management company, CUL plays an intricate role in Newfoundland and Labrador’s offshore industry. The company has recruited dozens of MI cadets since it began managing crude oil shuttle tankers serving the Hibernia, Terra Nova and White Rose oil fields offshore NL in 1997. Many of these cadets have continued as officers as evidenced by the high percentage of Newfoundlanders and Labradorians currently working in the fleet.

“CUL has been an employer of choice at MI and an anchor to our cadet program over the past decade,” stated Bernie Brockerville, senior placement officer, MI. “They have always been very supportive of student initiatives and are a great example of how education and industry can work together for the benefit of students, employers and the province.”

“The time I spent on board was a fantastic learning experience. I worked with a multinational crew who had been all over the world on many different types of ships and they used their experiences to help me learn and gain new experiences,” said Sparkes.

“I got to see the industry on a global scale, shipboard life and even learned a little of the language the Filipino crew spoke, Tagalog.”

Now in the second year of his program, Sparkes is hoping to get his certification and continue working with CUL, either internationally or in the province.

CONNECTING WITH CADETS Engaging students is the main focus of the long-standing partnership between MI and Canship Ugland Ltd. (CUL). This has been evidenced in its first-class cadet program.

CUL utilizes a variety of engagement activities to develop its profile and connect with the students throughout the province. CUL was one of the first employers to participate in and maintain student engagement as a priority in MI’s annual Career Fair.

Nautical Science student, Adam Sparkes gained his exposure to the company by staying late the night before MI’s 2013 Career Fair to help employers set up their booths.

“I was just finishing up another employer’s booth when I noticed a large model of the M/T Vinland being carried into the gym,” recalled Sparkes. “I had wanted to work for CUL for some time so I couldn’t resist walking over and helping out with the preparation of their booth. Bert Noseworthy, [human resources coordinator], was there at the time. We had a great conversation about the industry while setting up and I learned a great deal about the company.”

Sparkes was later hired at CUL for his work term, but instead of being sent to work on one of the company’s shuttle tankers on the Grand Banks, he was flown to the Caribbean Island of Curacao where he sailed aboard the M/T Catherine Knutsen. Sparkes sailed from Venezuela to Curacao carrying Venezuelan oil from an offshore installation in the Gulf of Paria to a refinery in Bullenbay, Curaco.

“I got to see the industry on a global scale, shipboard life and even learned a little of the language the Filipino crew spoke, Tagalog.”

L-R: CHIEF OFFICER BRIAN BISHOP, ADAM SPARKES, BERT NOSEWORTHY AT THE 2014 MI CAREER FAIR EXHIBITION

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INDUSTRY CONNECTION

intermodal shipping firm Oceanex, headhunted Capt. Hynes for the President’s role, it proved to be an opportunity he couldn’t refuse. Rather than accepting the job of President, he instead led a consortium which acquired Oceanex, and as Executive Chairman he now focuses his energy on making this company the most successful transportation provider in Eastern Canada.

“I’ve always had a passion for the marine industry. My businesses have all been related to this area and I have put all of my energy into building successful businesses,” explained Capt. Hynes. “I thrive on challenges and my greatest satisfaction is when I achieve the goals I have set out for myself.”

Since Capt. Hynes privatized Oceanex Inc., he and his company have been influential in the development of the Marine Institute. Last fall, Memorial awarded Capt. Hynes with an Honorary Degree for his involvement with industry and MI. He has maintained a strong connection to MI since 1995 by volunteering as a member of the institute’s Industry Advisory Committee, where he now serves as chair.

“I’m a firm believer in the Marine Institute and the programs it delivers. I believe it offers its students a thorough and practical education, giving them every opportunity to go out and succeed in this industry,” said Capt. Hynes. “MI trains people for a skill set that allows them to advance in their careers and work around the world, while at the same time continuing to live in this great province.”

Oceanex supports current and future MI students by providing work term and graduate employment opportunities. The company is also very active in annual institute events such as the Career Fair, which provides networking opportunities for employers, alumni and students.

To further support MI students, Capt. Hynes recently established an Oceanex scholarship. Awarded twice a year during the autumn and spring scholarship presentations, the scholarship is given to high-achieving nautical science and marine engineering students for their academic and work term performance.

MARINE TYCOON In Canada’s marine transportation industry, Dr. Captain Sidney Hynes is widely known as a mover and a shaker. As a graduate of the College of Fisheries, Navigation, Marine Engineering and Electronics, Capt. Hynes’ “can do” attitude has had an enormous influence on how goods and people are transported to and from his home province.

At just 19 years old he became one of the youngest in Canada to receive the 2nd Mate Certificate and broke age records again as a 1978-79 bronze medal winner of the Master Intermediate Trade ON 1.

Capt. Hynes has spent the last two decades at the forefront of Canada’s marine industry. In 1986, he founded and became president of Canship Limited where he operated vessels worldwide. After forming a joint venture with the JJ Ugland group of Norway, he became chairman of Canship Ugland Limited, a company formed to operate three shuttle tankers on the Grand Banks.

After the collapse of the fishery in 1992, Capt. Hynes was involved in initiating a training program that resulted in 150 former Newfoundland fishermen being employed onboard new shuttle tankers. He also successfully negotiated the only known 25-year-term labour union agreement covering the Hibernia shuttle tanker operations.

He was appointed by the Government of Canada in 2000 to manage Marine Atlantic, the largest Crown Corporation in Atlantic Canada. Then in 2007, when the

"MI trains people for a skill set that allows them to advance in their careers and work around the world....”

DR. CAPTAIN SIDNEY HYNES

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FROM LAND TO SEA

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JOACHIM FAGAN

STUDENT CONNECTION

Just a few years ago, Joachim Fagan was keeping the roads cleared of improvised explosive devices for friendly forces and the local population in Kandahar Province, Afghanistan.

Fagan, who is now a corporal, has been serving with 56th Engineer Squadron, 37th Combat Engineer Regiment for the past seven years.

“My time serving as a reservist with the Canadian Forces has definitely taught me the extremes I am willing to go to for my job, how to deal with various types of hardship, as well as some of my strengths and weaknesses,” said Fagan. “I do not mind being away from home, nor do I mind the variable work load that is demanded by a constantly changing schedule.”

Today he is redirecting his career to the sea as a student in MI’s nautical science program. His interest in the oceans was sparked a few years ago when he read projects and books belonging to a friend who was enrolled.

“I started asking my friend questions about what the program was like and where she was hoping to go with it,” explained Fagan. “I then looked into the school a little more and decided, with my best friend, to join. He took up the marine engineering program the same year I started nautical science.”

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THE BRIDGE » MARINE INSTITUTE / 9

STUDENT CONNECTION

In his sea phase II, Fagan has already worked on the M/T Kometik, an oil tanker with Canship Ugland Ltd and with WesternGeco onboard the WG Vespucci, a seismic vessel which was conducting the 3D/4D survey for the Hebron project.

“Knowing that I have worked on the next big oil project for Newfoundland really means a lot to me,” expressed Fagan. “The Vespucci itself was great. The international crew was extraordinary. They gave me every opportunity to excel, taught me everything they could, allowed me to try new things and always made sure I tested myself.”

Currently, Fagan is aboard the Umiak I, a Fednav ice breaker and bulk carrier which services Voisey’s Bay. This is Fagan’s second time on an ice breaker, the first being with the Canadian Coast Guard during his initial sea phase. In the future, Fagan is hoping to expand his horizons by gaining experience on supply vessels.

“The oil industry is definitely a place that is looking up for me. Anywhere is a possibility.”

When he’s not performing duties with his squadron, at sea completing work terms, or doing course work, Fagan spends time volunteering and participating in extracurricular MI activities.

His list of achievements include being a recipient of the Queen Elizabeth II Diamond Jubilee Medal, as well as a member of the winning 2012 and 2013 teams in the annual Nautical Skills Competitions and placing third in the 2014 competition.

Last year, Fagan represented the MI Student Union as the chief returning officer and was a student volunteer for the International Association of Maritime Universities conference hosted by MI in 2012.

“I like to be a part of my school as much as being a student there.”

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The Marine Institute

The School of Fisheries at the Marine Institute of Memorial University brings science and technology to aquaculture, fi shing, environmental and food industries, improving their operational effi ciency and sustainability.

Our centres are home to the largest fl ume tank in the world, a cutting edge marine bioprocessing research facility, the largest at-sea institutional fi sheries research capacity in the country and world class scientifi c and technical staff. Centre for Aquaculture and Seafood Development

Centre for Fisheries Ecosystems Research

Community Based Education Delivery

Centre for Sustainable Aquatic Resources

Fisheries and Marine Institute of Memorial University of NewfoundlandSchool of Fisheries P.O. Box 4920 St. John's, NL Canada A1C 5R3Telephone: (709) 778-0441 Fax: (709) 778-0535 [email protected]

Page 11: Bridge Spring 2014

Dr. May was particularly proud of the development of research and advanced education programs at MI. He helped launch the institute’s fi rst research chair (Industrial Research Chair in Fisheries Conservation) and in 1996 he commissioned a special plaque, which is placed in the institute’s main stairway, to commemorate the awarding of the very fi rst degree by MI.

In recent years, Dr. May continued to be active at MI. He was the founding chairman (2002-2012) of One Ocean, the senior liaison committee between the fi shing and off shore petroleum industries and was also the founding chair (2010-2014) of the Research Advisory Committee for the Centre for Fisheries Ecosystems Research (CFER).

“Dr. May was a man who made signifi cant contributions to fi sheries science,” said Glenn Blackwood, vice-president, Memorial University (Marine Institute). “He was passionate about building world class fi sheries science capacity at Memorial University through CFER.”

The following is an excerpt written by Dr. Arthur May which recounts his fi rst experience sailing as a young man, titled, “The UNTD, Recollections from the 1950’s” from the novel, Sailing Through the Narrows: the Naval Reserve in Newfoundland by the 50th Anniversary Committee of H.M.C.S Cabot (2000).

“I joined the UNTD {University Naval Training Division} at Memorial University in September 1955, just as I was starting my second year of studies…We arrived at Halifax for the fi rst summer’s

training on May 11th. We were immediately assigned to ships, issued uniforms and various kits, and were at sea on May 15th. Of forty-two cadets assigned to one of the lower messdecks, forty were seasick within hours. Luckily, so I thought, I was one of the two who wasn’t sick. Harvey Best was the other. As soon as our Cadet Captain discovered this, Harvey and I were set the task of cleaning up the Mess, and quite a mess it was. Enough said! …

The UNTD off ered experiences to young Canadians in their late teens which would not have been possible otherwise…I suppose the high point was in the early 1980’s when the Comptroller General of Canada and the Deputy Ministers of Transport, Science and Technology, and Fisheries and Oceans were all ex-UNTD cadets. I don’t know how many made careers in the navy, but I do know two recently retired Commodores, so those who did choose the navy as a career appear to have held their own with those who came in by other routes. All in all the UNTD was a very successful program in people building and nation building!”

MI honours Dr. Arthur May for his contributions

The Marine Institute’s 50th anniversary year is a time for many celebrations of the past, present and endeavors for the future. It is also a time to refl ect on the signifi cant individuals who were essential in shaping the institute.

Dr. Arthur May, with his Master’s and Doctoral degrees in fi sheries biology and marine sciences and his 15 years of experience as a fi sheries biologist in the North Atlantic, remains one of the most infl uential people involved in transforming MI into a world class facility.

With his passing in January of this year, the MI and Memorial community remember him as a visionary for his role in shaping the modern Memorial University. He maintained a long and close relationship with MI and was a member of the institute’s Board of Governors (1988-89) and its last president. Dr. May facilitated the lead up to MI’s offi cial affi liation with Memorial University on February 28, 1992.

Throughout his term as president of Memorial, Dr. May was actively involved in integrating MI with the university community and providing the environment for the institute to progress without losing its unique role in Newfoundland and Labrador.

TRIBUTE TO DR. ARTHUR MAY

THE BRIDGE » MARINE INSTITUTE / 11

REMEMBERING-A-

DR. ARTHUR MAY

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VP MESSAGE + EDITORIAL

In just five decades, the Marine Institute has become a world-leading centre for marine and ocean-related career education and research. As a campus of Memorial University, the Institute is one of the largest institutes of its kind in Canada offering a suite of programs that are found nowhere else in the country. The Marine Institute offers diplomas of technology, certificates and Bachelor and Master’s degree programs ranging from marine diesel mechanics to maritime management.

MI is honouring its 50th anniversary throughout 2014 by reconnecting and recognizing its alumni, retirees, staff, faculty, students, industry, government and community partners. The institute will be holding a number of alumni events in communities within the province and across the country where its faculty, staff and students have been influential. Events will be held in communities such as Norris Point, Lewisporte, St. Anthony, Grand Bank, and Goose Bay to celebrate the anniversary.“The Marine Institute has a uniqueness which sets it apart from other institutions,” said Gerald Anderson, director, Development and Engagement,

MI celebrates its 50th anniversary by paying homage to the past and looking ahead to the future

In 1964, two-hundred guests witnessed the creation of an institute which would not only have a significant impact on Newfoundland and Labrador but on the marine, oceans and food industries worldwide.

It was Premier Joseph R. Smallwood’s vision that came to life during the opening of the College of Fisheries, Navigation, Marine Engineering and Electronics on the previous Memorial College Parade Street campus.

12 \ THE BRIDGE » MARINE INSTITUTE

YEARS AGO

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TABLE OF CONTENTS

THE BRIDGE » MARINE INSTITUTE / 13

to provide students with relevant education and skills.

MI alumni are on the front lines in the fields of marine transportation, firefighting, food technology and water quality industries, applying their expertise in food safety and sustainable aquaculture and protecting coastal environments.

In recent years, the institute is also opening the fields of remotely operated vehicles, ocean mapping and ocean instrumentation to students as the province carves out its role as a leader in ocean technology.

MI faculty and staff are also found working with these industries at home and around the world. The Community Based Education Delivery Unit offers courses in communities across the province and Canada’s North, working closely with fish harvesters and the private sector to provide specialized and regulatory training. On the global stage, MI International has implemented more than 200 projects in over 50 countries to expand their

industrial capabilities by applying unique ocean knowledge, project management skills and expertise.

With its vision for the future to be a world oceans institute, setting the standard in education, training, innovation, and research, the Marine Institute is continuously shaping its goals and activities, strengthening its expertise and advancing its reputation for ocean excellence globally.

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

MI Alumni Contest: 1964-2014 graduates of a recognized diploma, degree or certificate program can complete the alumni contact form to be entered to win a monthly draw of an iPad Air. A grand prize $3,000 travel voucher will be drawn at the end of the 50th Anniversary year. www.mi50.ca/Contests/AlumniContest/ MI Alumni Contest

MI. “Through our 50th anniversary year, we are recognizing our past by acknowledging our accomplishments and the institutional culture which has grown over the years.”

MI has evolved from the early days as an industry-specific training institution, to an industry-linked education and applied research institution. It has not only had a significant impact on Newfoundland and Labrador but on the marine, oceans and food industries worldwide.

Over the past several years, MI has seen significant increase in the establishment of research facilities and centres, advanced diplomas and master’s degrees, securement of Atlantic Innovation Fund Projects as well as nationally and internationally funded projects, expansion of ocean safety research initiatives and simulation capabilities.

The true story of the institute’s success lies in industry partnerships and the graduates who work around the world. MI collaborates with industry to assess and meet constantly evolving training needs

THE BRIDGE » MARINE INSTITUTE \ 13

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SPECIAL ALUMNI TRIBUTE

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NORTHERN DIRECTIONNaval architecture alumni serve as part of the Transport Canada team leading the Canadian regulatory regime for the Arctic

Many graduates leave the Marine Institute, diploma in hand, eager to begin their new careers.

Some never truly leave. Instead, they navigate a course into their future with the intent of one day giving back to the school that has given them so much.

That’s the case for Desmond Raymond, a 1996 Naval Architecture graduate, who is not only an MI alumna but also a scholarship donor, recruiter of MI graduates and now a returning student in the institute’s Bachelor of Technology program.

After spending a decade outside of the marine industry, Raymond became the regional director for Marine Safety and Security, Transport Canada, Prairie and Northern Region in 2009. It was through this role he discovered how he could make his mark on the institute.

Raymond established the Vincent and Violet Raymond Scholarship in memory of his parents in 2009. The scholarship is awarded annually to a second or third year Naval Architecture or Marine Engineering Systems Design student who has demonstrated dedication, eff ort and enthusiasm in their studies.

PHOTO CREDIT: FEDNAv

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SPECIAL ALUMNI TRIBUTE

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is operating in a safe manner and that the protection of the Arctic environment is paramount.”

Raymond, Maciorowski and Glover all have a passion for the Arctic, but where they each thought they would end up and where their careers have actually taken them are all drastically diff erent. All three agree that when they were at MI, the last place they expected to end up applying their profession would have been Winnipeg.

Maciorowski is originally from Calgary, Alberta and didn’t have much exposure to the ocean growing up.

The naval architecture program at MI provided Maciorowski the keys to open doors to move into the workforce immediately. He fi nds his position with the Transport Canada Prairie and Northern Region team both satisfying and challenging as it off ers opportunities not likely seen in other Transport Canada regions.

“With the transit of the north becoming a more viable transportation option it’s interesting to be on the frontlines. It gives me a better appreciation for it,” explained Maciorowski.

As for Glover, he spent his whole life around boats. Growing up in

Glovertown, NL he thought he would follow in his father’s footsteps, as a carpenter.

He was accepted into the carpentry program at the College of the North Atlantic at the same time he was accepted into MI’s naval architecture program. It was his grade 10 guidance counselors’ early advice, his love of architecture and knowledge of boats that fi nally curbed his decision.

Raymond describes Glover and Maciorowski as perfect examples of the reputation of MI’s naval architecture program. Glover gained his position through a recruitment program between Transport Canada and MI and Maciorowski gained his through a national recruitment campaign. Glover describes his career with Transport Canada and the work in the Arctic as challenging with opportunity to progress.

“MI will always be a part of who I am. I will never forget the friends, instructors and the invaluable knowledge I brought away with me,” said Glover.

As for current and future students, all three echo the same message, “You may not always get the best marks, but if you put your heart and soul into everything you do, in the end you will get the opportunities you seek. You can never know where it will take you.”

The intent of the scholarship is to encourage good students, even though they may not be the top students in the class. Raymond can speak from personal experience as he was the recipient of the Melvin Fried Memorial Scholarship in his second year of studies.

“I struggled during my fi rst year as I was more interested in the fun aspect of being a student. After getting that fi rst set of marks it was a wakeup call. Ouch! So I put my nose to the grind and got on track,” explained Raymond. “Getting the scholarship was confi rmation of my eff orts and a bit of a confi dence builder. I never forgot that experience and thought that one day I would support someone else getting that opportunity as well.”

Since 2010 two MI naval architecture graduates have joined the Transport Canada team in Winnipeg. Mike Maciorowski, 2004 naval architecture graduate, is a senior marine safety inspector and Joshua Glover, 2010 naval architecture graduate and Melvin Fried Memorial scholarship recipient, is a marine safety inspector.

Together, they are part of the Transport Canada team that ensures the Canadian regulatory regime is applied for all vessels operating in the Canadian Arctic as well as inland waters within the three western provinces and three northern territories.

In particular, as the Prairie and Northern region encompasses the vast majority of Arctic waters, they are responsible for ensuring the application of the Arctic Waters Pollution Prevention Act. The act aims to prevent pollution in Canadian Arctic waters and is a ‘zero discharge act’.

“Our region takes a lead in confi rming that vessels operate within the Canadian regime in the Canadian Arctic,” said Raymond. “We are at the forefront of making sure everyone

"MI will always be a part of who I am. I will never forget the friends, instructors and the invaluable knowledge I brought away with me."

MIKE, DESMOND AND JOSH / CREDIT: BRIAN WILLIAMSON, TRANSPORT CANADA

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SPECIAL ALUMNI PROFILE

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nautical science. There was also a college hockey team at the time.”

As a student, Capt. Zaki participated in many activities at the college. He was a member of the student council and the nautical science society and helped them run a canteen at the dormitory in Pleasantville. He also drove members of the hockey team to Clarenville for games, organized weekend dances with live bands and was involved in winter carnival activities.

After graduating in 1969, Capt. Zaki began as a cadet in Canada working with companies such as Irving Oil and Crosby Shipping. The majority of his sea-career was spent with Esso Petroleum (later known as Imperial Oil) before he accepted a position as one of two captains for the first Canadian shuttle tanker, the M/T Kometik.

“I was fortunate to be the captain to deliver the ship on her maiden voyage with a load of crude oil from Saudi Arabia to Philadelphia, USA,” said Capt. Zaki. “I also had the opportunity to transport the first Hibernia crude oil from the field to the United States and deliver the first Hibernia crude oil to Whiffen Head Transshipment Terminal in Placentia Bay.”

His sea-career took him to many parts of the world, travelling widely from the Gulf of St. Lawrence, to the Canadian Arctic, up the Eastern Seaboard, to ports in Europe and the United Kingdom and even sailing through the Red Sea a couple of times.

NAVIGATINGTHE SEASCaptain Ahamad Zaki ventured from the Maldive Islands to the harsh North Atlantic waters in 1965 to study navigation at the “new” College of Fisheries, Navigation, Marine Engineering and Electronics.

Given the opportunity to attend school in Bombay (Mumbai), India or St. John’s, NL, he quickly chose this province thinking he may never get the chance again.

Before moving, Capt. Zaki sailed in the Indian Ocean and Persian Gulf gaining experience as a cadet.

“The Maldives are a group of islands, so there is more sea than land. Shipping was a great big part of Maldives’ life,” explained Capt. Zaki. “Naturally, I gravitated to sea going and wanted to be a navigator.”

Reflecting back on his days as a student at the college, Capt. Zaki remembers everyone as being proactive and forward looking.

“It was absolutely great at the college. The staff and the students were fantastic, friendly and most helpful. Those days everybody - staff and students, especially nautical science students were all well dressed,” recalled Capt. Zaki. “There was a student council and very active societies such as food technology and

“It was a wonderful life, having had the opportunity to see different parts of the world and, of course, different people and cultures,” expressed Capt. Zaki. “I always had the good fortune of working with great Canadians and multinationals. Meeting and chatting with people of various cultures was a tremendous life experience.”

Soon after he retired from sea, Capt. Zaki was hired by MI’s Centre for Marine Simulation (CMS) to teach dynamic positioning. After a while his scope broadened to include Global Maritime Distress and Safety System certification and Bridge Resource Management, among other courses. He worked at CMS for ten years before retiring in 2009, but maintains a close connection to the institute.

“Captain Zaki’s professionalism and sense of camaraderie is legendary. His office was the unofficial centre of discussion and debate over matters and all were made welcome,” said Captain Christopher Hearn, director, CMS. “People involved in training courses at CMS benefited from his broad range of knowledge, his operational experience and his ability to connect and communicate with anyone. While he may be retired, Captain Zaki is still a welcome visitor to CMS and often drops by to take part in social activities.”

CAPTAIN ZAKI, 1969

GRADUATE AND FORMER

CMS INSTRUCTOR

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RECEPTION APRIL 30TH ~

ANNIVERSARY HIGHLIGHTS

ANNIVERSARY HIGHLIGHTS

EMPLOYEE LUNCHEON - IQALUIT ~

CLASS OF 68-69 REUNION ~

RECEPTION APRIL 30TH ~

RECEPTION APRIL 30TH �

STUDENT CONTEST WINNER - ARON NG ~

EMPLOYEE LUNCHEON �

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in composite construction outside of class time. The project required a lot of meetings afterhours with the instructors and countless hours researching online, in text books, and at the library. In the end, it was worth it. I presented my design to Gunboat and they liked it.”

After sending Gunboat his resume, Rees offered to meet and discuss potential job opportunities with the company. In April, Rees took it upon himself to travel to North Carolina on his own dime in hopes of landing his dream job.

“During the visit to Gunboat, I received a full tour of the facilities. What they do at the North Carolina facilities is amazing. The quality of their product is very high-end and the company has a much respected reputation in the yacht industry,” said Rees.

During the tour of Gunboat’s facilities Rees experienced, first hand, the fast-paced atmosphere. After spending most of the day in a rigorous interview in the massive facilities, design rooms, and climbing around the boats under construction with pointed questions from gentlemen in suits who sell million dollar boats, Rees heard what he never expected.

sailing school. In this role I did a lot of maintenance work with engines, bilge systems, sail maintenance, and fiberglass repair, which actually inspired me to pursue naval architecture,” explained Rees.

Having been diagnosed with a hearing loss early in his childhood, Rees learned to deal with his challenge not allowing it to interfere with his vision of one day building and delivering custom Gunboats around the world.

Gunboat was the inspiration for Rees’ senior design project. Choosing to forgo a steel and aluminum ship design, Rees instead poured his time into composites and working with sail arrangements for a 30.2 metre performance sailing catamaran. This particular design required a hull geometry and sail plan that allowed for maximum efficiency. While the project was rather complicated, Rees remained motivated with a lot of inspiration coming from Gunboats’ designs.

“I believe that at the end of the day the most important thing is to follow your dreams,” said Rees. “It required a lot of extra work to learn about composite catamarans. As a class, we would write exams about steel ship construction, but I would have to learn the same level of detail

TOP NOTCHTaking a huge leap of faith landed Simon Rees his dream job.

This Marine Institute Naval Architecture spring 2014 graduate is starting his career as a naval architect with Gunboat, a world leading Yacht Company in composite construction, production and design.

Getting in with the prestigious North Carolina company wasn’t an easy feat.

Rees grew up in a sailing family in Conception Bay South, NL. His passion for the ocean and boats only grew over the years through experience on his parents’ 29 foot sail boat and his involvement in the Royal Canadian Sea Cadet program and the Royal Newfoundland Yacht Club.

“After doing many regattas and two offshore races I started working as a coach at the yacht club, and then was promoted to director of the

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SIMON REES (RIGHT) SAILING

TOP NOTCH

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TOP NOTCH

“At the end, I was asked if I could handle this type of work environment, meeting strict deadlines, interfacing with clients, long hours, and no room for errors. I had to think about it. I had to make sure I could meet the expectations,” recalled Rees. “My experience managing a sailing school at the yacht club with much responsibility and many hours of overtime convinced my future boss I was up for the task. He gave me the hand shake and said ‘Welcome to Gunboat.’”

On June 23rd, a mere ten days after his MI graduation, Rees will begin working as a naval architect with Gunboat.

Rees will work primarily alongside an architect whose focus is on design aesthetics. Together they will work with production drawings. Rees will help in adding the technical aspects of the designs while effectively relaying them to the shop floor.

For his very first project, Rees has been assigned to a 78 foot sailing catamaran. “The complexity of this boat is amazing. It is made mostly of carbon fiber, which is a really expensive high end material,” explained Rees. “The boat is made to be very light weight so it can achieve optimum performance while under sail, but still have all the luxuries of a modern day yacht.”

THE BRIDGE » MARINE INSTITUTE / 19

Perhaps the biggest inspiration Rees has had was meeting Jimmy Spithill, the 2013 America’s Cup skipper of the winning team, Oracle. The team was many points behind the New Zealand team and only one race away from being defeated in the biggest sailing regatta in the world, when Spithill told his team to stay positive and focus on one race at a time. They focused on that small task and eventually it led them to one of the greatest sporting comebacks in history as they claimed the cup.

Taking the initial risk to tackle a composite sailing catamaran for his design project was a gamble for Rees. He was very motivated to start working in the yacht industry with the hopes of landing a position with Gunboat. One thing he learned through managing the sailing school and talking to MI faculty members with experience in the industry was that sometimes you have to take a risk. Fortunately his paid off.

“Making connections throughout life goes a long way. Keeping those who support you and believe in you close is very important. Then, when you have to make a huge leap of faith and have so many people behind you, it helps,” expressed Rees. “My mom always says, ‘It takes a village.’ Having incredible support from school, friends and family is the one thing I’ve found that’s always made the difference.”

PHOTO CREDIT: GUNBOAT

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MI NEWS

Government has invested $13 million to support fisheries science research since CFER was launched in 2010. The second announcement was an investment of $6 million over two years to help the provincial fishing and aquaculture sectors gain competitive advantage in foreign markets. This will be done through support of the Fisheries Technology and New Opportunities Program and the Canadian Centre for Fisheries Innovation.

MI ESTABLISHES COMMUNITY PARTNERSHIPSThe institute has entered into two new partnerships to support community engagement. MI signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the Miawpukek First Nation (MFN) to channel the passion and enthusiasm of today’s MFN youth towards careers in the fisheries and marine industries through enrolment in MI programs.

MI has also signed an MOU with the Town of Holyrood to advance oceans and economic development in Holyrood. The new five year agreement will provide a framework for advancement of oceans-related

SIMULATION FACILITY TO BE CONSTRUCTEDConstruction of the Hibernia Offshore Operations Simulator Facility will begin this spring at the Marine Institute’s Ridge Road campus. The new simulator facility will provide offshore operators with advanced and customized training for the supply and support of offshore facilities and production platforms. This facility was made possible by donations of $4.4 million from the Hibernia Management and Development Company Ltd., and $750,000 from the

Provincial Government’s Infrastructure Funding Program. The Government of Canada, through the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency’s Innovative Communities Fund, is providing more than $1 million to MI which will support the simulator and smaller components related to helicopter safety training as well as planning and design components related to MI’s Holyrood Marine Base.

PROVINCIAL GOVERNMENT INVESTMENTS Continuous investment has been made by the Provincial Government through Budget 2014 in fisheries science and the NL fishing and aquaculture sectors. The Honourable Keith Hutchings, Minister of Fisheries and Aquaculture made two announcements at MI. The first was for increased support for the institute’s Centre for Fisheries Ecosystems Research (CFER) with an investment of $4.95 million over the next two years. To date, the Provincial

MI NEWS

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MI NEWS

for networking. The annual event offers MI students and alumni an opportunity to learn more about the hands-on application of their field of study.

MI GRADUATES NAVAL COMBAT SYSTEMS TECHNICIANSSailors in the Canadian Forces Naval Engineering School Detachment St. John’s Naval Combat Systems Technical Training Plan graduated during a ceremony held by the Marine Institute at the Drill Hall in Pleasantville. The graduated earned MI diplomas in electro-mechanical engineering and are now stationed in either Halifax, NS or Esquimalt, BC for further naval training prior to being assigned to naval ships. During the ceremony, the graduating class donated the proceeds of their fundraising, $3,340, from the second annual CFNES Polar Bear Swim to the Children’s Wish Foundation.

STUDENTS TEST NAUTICAL SKILLSTeam 47th Latitude Attitude was crowned champion of the 3rd annual Nautical Skills Competition. Members of the winning team include nautical science students Chris Reglar, Chantell Clarke, Keith Dalley, Chris Blackwood, Laurier Boudreau and Andrew Riggs. Each student received $1,000 and will have their names

engraved on the Captain Jim Thorpe plaque. Eight teams competed in a series of exercises in dynamic positioning, seamanship, cargo work, ship handling and navigation. The event is the only known competition of its kind in North America and is facilitated by volunteers from the Company of Master Mariners Canada, NL Division. It is designed to test the knowledge and ability of future deck officers and captains.

12TH ANNUAL CAREER FAIRMI’s 2014 Career Fair took place this March. It attracted over 400 students and alumni and showcased 34 local, national and international employers. The two day event began with company presentations that allowed employers to highlight recent successes and opportunities within their organizations. The career fair exhibition took place on the second day and provided an excellent forum

12TH ANNUAL CAREER FAIR

education, training, applied research and economic development..

SCHOLARSHIPS & AWARDSThirty-five of MI’s brightest and most dedicated students were honoured at the annual Spring Presentation of Scholarships and Awards. One award and thirty-seven scholarships were presented to students who have distinguished themselves in their respective programs through academic achievement, strong leadership skills, extra-curricular activities and community involvement. The newly established Ian Reid Award was presented to recipient Peng Sun, advanced diploma in food safety student. Two new scholarships

were also awarded for the first time: The Pikalujak Fisheries Partnership Limited Scholarship was presented to students Deanna Jones, first year nautical science and Brittany Keough, first year water quality. The Harbour Grace Shrimp Company Scholarship was presented to students Alan Drew, first year marine engineering systems design and Adam Streichsbier, second year naval architecture.

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L-R: ANDREA SIEIRO, KEIRA EAvIS, EMILY STURGE, CHERYL SLADE, MARIA FURTICHEvA

DESIGNING WOMEN

“When I decided to combine my degree and hobby by pursuing naval architecture, I looked at all Canadian universities. I chose MI for its combination of high quality education and low tuition,” said Furticheva. “The beautiful photos of this province also appealed to me as a photographer.”

Once she graduates, Furticheva will begin her career as a naval architect at Lengkeek Vessel Engineering Inc., in Halifax, Nova Scotia.

“Lengkeek Vessel Engineering is great company that provides the opportunity to grow and try every aspect of naval architecture,” said Furticheva. “This company has worked on redesigning the Bluenose II, a very challenging and prestigious project.”

While Furticheva has grown fond of Canada, particularly the Maritimes, she is prepared to go wherever her career takes her.

“Although I do miss home, my heart is where the boats are.”

Fellow classmate, Keira Eavis is native to Conception Bay South, NL and comes from a seafaring family. Growing up she spent her summers living on a boat. Eavis completed two years at Memorial’s St. John’s campus before she figured out how to make her mark on the world.

“I spent my time switching between all sorts of courses, including engineering. I heard about the naval architecture program at MI through the grapevine,” explained Eavis. “Once I made the decision to speak with student affairs at MI I was enrolled and attending my first class in no time.”

With her upcoming graduation this June, Eavis seems to have found her niche in naval architecture. The design aspect of the field has allowed her to expand on her lifelong passion of drawing and creating something that is her own.

Naval architecture was one of the founding programs when the College of Fisheries, Navigation, Marine Engineering and Electronics opened its doors in 1964. The program has a long history with the school boasting a high graduate employment rate and remaining a well-respected program throughout the industry. Until recent years, the program has traditionally been male dominated.

“Fifty percent of the students in the 2014 graduating class are female. These young women are among the brightest and hardest working students I’ve seen,” said Ian O’Brien, Naval Architecture faculty member, MI. “They are a great example of what women in engineering represent.”

Maria Furticheva is among the graduating class. She was born in Moscow right before the collapse of the Soviet Union. She already had a Bachelor’s Degree in math and computer sciences from a Russian university before coming to MI.

Furticheva’s interest in the sea and boats took root when she was young. She has been sailing for almost 15 years and during her initial training courses she became fascinated by the structure of steel and wooden boats and their performance in water.

DESIGNING WOMENAspiring female naval architectures at the Marine Institute are paving the way for the future

This June, the largest group of female students to ever complete MI’s Naval Architecture program will walk across the stage at the institute’s 2014 graduation.

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IT’S A BIG WORLD. BE AT THE CENTER OF IT.When you’re ready, you’re ready for anything.Explore our advanced diploma and graduate programs at www.mi.mun.ca/futurestudents and find the career path to a world of opportunities.

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ExPANDING OCEAN CAPABILITY Access to new innovative ocean technology applications and resources is expanding community engagement and student learning at the institute.

The School of Ocean Technology’s remotely operated vehicle (ROV) maintenance lab has been upgraded to support ocean technology applications through funding provided by the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency. It also supports student project work for other MI programs.

This facility now provides the opportunity for local companies to take advantage of rapid prototyping equipment that will enable them to respond in a timely fashion to market opportunities. A 3D printer, computers with 3D design software capability, a CNC router and lathe, electronics benches for circuit design,

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construction and repair, as well as benches, metal cutting bandsaw and tools for maintenance and repair are used to prototype conceptual designs.

Furthermore, the installation of this equipment augments the use of the facility for ocean technology maintenance courses, particularly ROV and buoy maintenance. In terms of preventative and corrective ROV maintenance, the lab has everything an ROV pilot and technician student would need from complete tear down to reassembly and prototyping of individual parts. Many of the students have used the new resources to manufacture their own parts such as camera mounts, rudders and fins.

Accompanied by a few classmates, second year ROV student, Luke McLennon has been putting in extra hours in the lab beyond regular course work to repair an ROV’s seized servo valves which control its thrusters.

“There are tons of resources in this lab and you get what you put into it,” said McLennon. “Our goal is to figure out how to make these machines work, so using hands-on practical application is the best way we know how.”

McLennon hopes to shed light on what he believes to be the most common misconception with ROV careers.

“Most people think ROV work only involves piloting but in order for a pilot to operate the ROV, it has to work properly and receive the proper maintenance,” expressed McLennon. “There’s a lot of work that goes into these machines behind the scenes.”

Once he finishes his semester and completes the eight week work-term, McLennon’s goal is to make an offshore career in troubleshooting and repairing ROVs.

Corey Roche is the lead instructor for the lab and oversees the operations as well as the students utilizing the resources. He describes the students as having a “feed me more” attitude in terms of gaining more hands-on training and accessing resources in the lab.

"The students are continuously working in unison to build upon each other's ideas and are expanding their knowledge and skills through the resources available in theis lab," said Roche. "The vision is to make this lab the hub of ROV technology."

New lab is hub of ROV technology

ExPANDING OCEAN CAPABILITY

“Our goal is to figure out how to make these machines work, so using hands-on practical application is the best way we know how.”

MI GRADUATION RIDGE ROAD CAMPUS JUNE 13, 2014 WWW.MI.MUN.CA/EVENTS

11TH INTERNATIONAL WORKSHOP ON HIGHER EDUCATION REFORM ST. JOHN’S, NL

AUGUST 25-27, 2014 WWW.HER2014.CA MARINE INSTITUTE OPEN HOUSE RIDGE

ROAD CAMPUS OCTOBER 2014 WWW.MI.MUN.CA/EVENTS OCEANS 2014 MTS/IEEE

ST. JOHN’S DELTA ST. JOHN’S HOTEL AND CONFERENCE CENTRE AND MILE ONE

CENTRE SEPTEMBER 14-19, 2014 WWW.OCEANS14MTSIEEESTJOHNS.ORG

HOLYROOD MARINE BASE OPEN HOUSE TOWN OF HOLYROOD, NORTHSIDE ROAD

JULY 2014 WWW.MI.MUN.CA/EVENTS NORTH ATLANTIC FISH AND WORKBOAT SHOW

MILE ONE CENTRE NOVEMBER 28 - 29, 2014 WWW.NAFISH.CA

THE BRIDGE » MARINE INSTITUTE / 25

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As a leading hagfi sh scientist in Atlantic Canada, Dr. Scott Grant’s research has gained global attention, earning him a request to submit a chapter in the 2014 edition of the Biology of Hagfi shes and present his research fi ndings at the 11th International Congress on the Biology of Fish in Edinburgh, Scotland this summer.

“I have always been fascinated with this species due to its elusive reproductive strategies as well as its unique anatomical and physiological features,” said Dr. Grant.

Hagfi sh have been around for over 300 million years. They are jawless fi shes that, today, comprise about 79 species found throughout the world, from the tropics to sub-Arctic regions. The Atlantic hagfi sh is the only species found in the North Atlantic Ocean.Interest in developing a hagfi sh fi shery in Newfoundland emerged in the early 1990’s and again in 2002 when Dr. Grant became involved. Korea is the only importer of hagfi sh and the primary market is for meat and lightweight leather made from the skin. Medicinal uses are also being researched.

ELUSIVE PRIMITIVE SPECIES

“When it comes to new emerging fi sheries there is typically little to no science carried out during the initial stages of fi shery development,” explained Dr. Grant. “This has led to what may be characterized as boom and bust fi sheries, which can often be caused by the overharvesting of juveniles. Hagfi sh fi sheries typically fall within this category.”

In the Newfoundland and Labrador region, science was put at the forefront of fi shery development for Atlantic hagfi sh. In doing so, research carried out by Dr. Grant contributed information that will help lead to sustainable management of the fi shery. His studies also provide a greater understanding of the abundance/biomass, distribution and reproductive strategies of Atlantic hagfi sh.

Dr. Grant has been involved with several other emerging fi sheries in Atlantic Canada including sea cucumber, waved whelk, toad crab, northern stone crab and porcupine crab. His studies on the Atlantic hagfi sh began with identifying the maturity schedule to set the stage for conservation minded gear that would avoid capture of juveniles in baited pots.

Dr. Grant has discovered that Atlantic hagfi sh do not have a synchronized spawning season. This is a unique generative strategy which may help hagfi sh compensate for fi shery removals by increasing their reproductive capacity. Since Atlantic hagfi sh are not restricted to a seasonal spawning period they appear to be able to shorten or lengthen the resting period between spawning events, thereby adjusting their reproductive capacity to changing environmental conditions. His research has also

shown that the number of eggs produced during a spawning cycle can respond to environmental pressures.

With funding from the provincial government, Dr. Grant has recently started work that revisits the maturity schedule, to determine whether it has shifted to compensate for fi shery removals. One possibility is that the species may have started to mature at a smaller body size to increase productivity.

“This primitive looking creature has well-established and relatively unique reproductive strategies that allow it to respond to environmental conditions by increasing reproductive capacity,” said Dr. Grant. “Its reproductive cycle is similar to the human condition since it is not tied to the spring resurgence in environmental productivity as other mammal and fi sh species.”

With the growing demand for hagfi sh, Dr. Grant will be spending his time working with fi shers on Newfoundland’s west coast this summer and autumn assisting with the development of new hagfi sh fi sheries.

Research scientist within MI’s Centre for Sustainable Aquatic Resources (CSAR) zeroes in on emerging Atlantic hagfi sh fi sheries

ELUSIVE PRIMITIVE SPECIES

THE BRIDGE » MARINE INSTITUTE / 26

HAGFISH FEEDING AT BAIT STATION / CREDIT: RIC MARTIN

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HOW WE MEASURE UPMARINE INSTITUTE STATISTICS 2013-14

DEGREESDIPLOMAS

CERTIFICATES

138 SCHOLARSHIPS + AWARDS

$108,550118 RECIPIENTS

WORK TERM PLACEMENTS

PLACEMENT EMPLOYERS

GROSS REVENUE BY SOURCE DATA FISCAL YEAR 2013/14

$56,327,000

TOTAL GROSS REVENUE BY SOURCE

INDUSTRIAL TRAINING $11,625,000

TUITION $1,724,000

RESEARCH/TEACHNOLOGY TRANSFER $7,905,000

INTERNATIONAL $615,000OTHER $4,297,000

GRANT $30,161,000

ROUNDED TO $1,000

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