A group of government and marine industry partners has launched a multi million-dollar marine simulation centre at the British Columbia Institute of Technology’s marine campus in North Vancouver.
The new BCIT Marine Simulation Centre will provide training and research for the marine industry in B.C. and across North American and will give the marine industry in B.C. a competitive edge, including increased local competitiveness and economic strength.
Partners include Transport Canada, BC Ferries, Kongsberg Maritime Simulation, Kinder Morgan Canada, Pacific Pilotage Authority, Port Metro Vancouver, Seaspan, and the Council of Marine Carriers.
The centre consists of seven new ship's bridges, North America's only 360-degree tug towboat bridge simulator, a ship's main bridge simulation environment and an engine room simulator complete with ground-shaking audio special effects and emergency lights.
North Vancouver MP Andrew Saxton said, “The new centre will draw both foreign and domestic mariners to BCIT's North Vancouver campus to improve their skills and become safer seafarers. The centre will also improve marine safety in Canada by enhancing regulatory training and certification of Canadian mariners.”
Added BCIT president Don Wright: “This unprecedented technology allows students to apply marine theory in a realistic and hands-on environment, preparing our graduates for their future and helping them become ready to play a key role in shaping the future of the marine industry in Western Canada."
“We are grateful to the Government of Canada and our industry partners for their support and vision in making this simulation centre a reality.”
According to a statement released yesterday, more training capacity will attract more business. Engineering companies, pilots, tug operators and marine students will train in B.C. and help meet the needs of the Canadian maritime industry.
The BCIT marine campus is one of the two largest marine campuses in Canada. It is the only training facility of its kind in Western Canada that provides a complete spectrum of Transport Canada-approved programs and courses on navigation, maritime engineering, seamanship, and maritime safety and security.
Jennifer Harrison