2007-2008

News Release

REF NO.: 167

SUBJECT: The Marine Institute launches new ROV program for high school graduates

DATE: April 24, 2008

            The Fisheries and Marine Institute continues to expand career options for high school graduates with the addition of a new technician diploma in remotely operated vehicles (ROV) this fall. 
            This two-year program is designed specifically for high school graduates who want a career that combines engineering, technology, computer and science skills in an oceans environment.   Students will be trained in ROV piloting, hydraulics, electronics, electrical, underwater navigation, ROV launch and recovery operations and workplace safety. They will also experience live field training, simulated exercises in specialized ROV facilities, classroom instruction and a work term with industry. 
            Graduates will be eligible to be certified as ROV pilot/technicians Level 2. They will have the knowledge to operate, maintain and repair an ROV and will have the basic training in ROV deployment methodologies that encompass safety, inspection, operation and working load requirements. 
            Dwight Howse, head of the School of Ocean Technology at the institute says the addition of the remotely operated vehicles (ROV) technician diploma program is a natural progression for the school as it continues to grow and respond to industry needs.
            “Globally, there is a significant lack of trained ROV pilots and technicians. Demand is growing in the offshore oil and gas industry, in resource management, and in security,” said Mr. Howse. “This program will produce graduates who are particularly well suited to the demands of these positions. Graduates are immediately employable in exciting locations around the globe.”
            The institute will also continue to offer its one-year advanced technical certificate for ROV operators, initially launched in 2007.   That program is designed for individuals who already have an accredited diploma or degree in electrical, mechanical, electronics or marine engineering and want to enter the ROV industry as a pilot/technician. 
            “The Marine Institute strives to address the educational needs of ocean industries and spread our reputation for oceans excellence around the globe,” said Glenn Blackwood, executive director, Marine Institute. “Our ROV programs are another example of how we are achieving that goal. We are proud to offer the only ROV programs of its kind in Canada at a post-secondary institution.”
            Graduates are expected to avail of careers in the large international ROV market which services the offshore oil and gas, nuclear, military, law enforcement, pipeline, aquaculture and cable industries.   The Marine Institute plans to offer graduates of this program the opportunity to continue their studies for a further two years to earn a bachelor of technology degree specializing in underwater vehicle technology.”        
            MI promotes ROV piloting as an emerging marine career for young people by supporting high school and university teams in regional and international competitions. The competitions challenge students to design, build, and operate an ROV to perform a series of tasks like those performed by an ROV in an industrial setting. Fifteen high school teams are currently registered to compete in the Newfoundland and Labrador Regional ROV Competition, to be held at the Marine Institute from May 2-3, 2008.
 

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