A New School of Ocean Technology at the Marine Institute

The oceans have always played a significant role in the economy of the Province of Newfoundland and Labrador. The traditional fishing activities have broadened over the years to now include marine transportation, recreation, ocean observation and science and offshore oil & gas activity. While the types of activity have broadened, the need for training to work safely and effectively in the ocean environment has remained consistently important throughout the years. That driver led to the creation of the Marine Institute in St. John´s over forty years ago. The Marine Institute has grown significantly over the years and in 1992, it was incorporated within the structure of Memorial University. The Marine Institute now stands as North America´s most comprehensive institute dedicated to education, training, applied research and industrial support in ocean industries. The Marine Institute is now poised to make another significant leap as it establishes a new School of Ocean Technology to complement the existing Schools of Maritime Studies and Fisheries. This paper will describe how, through a realignment of existing programs and expertise, coupled with the establishment of new programs and resources, the School of Ocean Technology will be developed to become a focal point for education, training, and applied research and development in the Province of Newfoundland and Labrador.