‘This is a game changer’
N.S. Community College getting marine simulator with navigation capabilities
SHELBURNE, N.S. — By the time students return in the fall, the school of fisheries in Shelburne, N.S., will have a marine simulator in place with navigation capabilities for both fishing and aquaculture as a learning tool for students.
Marine simulation training is not new at the Nova Scotia Community College's school of fisheries, but this technology is the first of its kind in Canada.
"Commercial fishing is recognized as one of the most dangerous occupations in the world. When that boat leaves the wharf, the crew truly is at the mercy of the seas. The ability to remain calm under pressure can be critical to safety in this environment," Municipality of Shelburne Warden Penny Smith said at a funding announcement for the simulator on May 17.
The Municipality of Shelburne assisted in the first phase of the project by providing $50,000 towards the cost of 12 laptops with new simulator software.
“One of our main focuses has always been the safety of fishermen and women. These people are our families, our friends, and members of our community," Smith said.
REAL-LIFE EQUIPMENT
The new marine simulator is computer-based but allows students to actually touch the controls and operate the vessel in a simulated environment, explained Duane Dakin, NSCC Shelburne academic chair.
“The laptop simulator meets Transport Canada regulation requirements so we can do the training we need to do, but this will allow us to enhance that and let the students develop the skills that are required to actually operate the vessel in the real environment,” said Dakin.
Instead of touching the keys on a keyboard, the students will be using the actual equipment you would have on the bridge of the vessel.
“They’re actually going to be turning the wheel of the vessel and using the throttle controls and wench controls so they learn that tactile touch of how much do I do and how hard do I turn as opposed to a laptop, which is good but it's not quite the same as doing it in a real-life situation,” Dakin said. "For some, it comes naturally, for others, it can take time to build confidence and (be) familiar with tasks aboard a vessel. The marine simulator can provide real-life exposure that can build their confidence and skills to meet the challenges they will face in a safe and controlled environment. It can help ensure that our loved ones come home safely,” said Smith.
Shelburne County MLA Nolan Young announced a one-time capital grant of $350,000 from the provincial Department of Advanced Education towards the initiative on May 17.
ACOA is also making a $345,726 non-repayable contribution.
“This is a game changer for us,” said Mary Thompson, principal of NSCC Burridge in Yarmouth, the Shelburne Campus, and the Digby site.
“We’re excited to be able to bring this tremendous resource to our campus here in Shelburne. It reflects the NSCC commitment for both innovation and safety, two of our key priorities and priorities also in the marine sector. Our new simulator will make the college a leader in the marine industry. It will ensure we have the means of providing students with a realistic experience operating a fishing vessel in a safe and simulated environment.”