On November 19, 2024, the Southern Ontario Network for Advanced Manufacturing Innovation (SONAMI), in partnership with the Walker Advanced Manufacturing Innovation Centre (WAMIC) and the School of Media, Trades & Technology at Niagara College, successfully hosted a round table and tour focused on the marine transportation industry. This event brought together representatives from the cities of Port Colborne, St. Catharines, Welland, Niagara Region, and Ontario Ministry of Transportation, as well as various companies within the marine transportation sector and its supply chain.
The event highlighted the industry challenges and explored how Niagara College, along with the SONAMI network it leads, can be valuable partners in supporting the industry's growth, greening efforts, and workforce challenges. Attendees engaged in discussions about applied research support available and the current and future workforce development needs within the marine transportation sector.
Ontario’s marine transportation industry is at a pivotal juncture for growth and competitiveness. The marine transportation industry is poised for significant transformation in the years ahead. Embracing digital transformation, committing to sustainability, and adapting to geopolitical shifts will be essential for companies aiming to thrive in this dynamic environment. Collaboration between interested parties—governments, industry leaders, and post-secondary institutions—will be essential to addressing the challenges and seizing the opportunities that lie ahead.
The economic impact of marine transportation extends beyond just the shipping companies. Ports, shipyards, and related industries, such as logistics and freight forwarding, create millions of jobs worldwide. In many regions, ports serve as economic engines, driving local economies through employment opportunities and business growth.
In 2022 alone, the Seaway generated $4.9 billion in economic activity for Ontario. The 33,001 Ontario jobs supported by the Welland Canal and Montreal-Lake Ontario locks made up half of the 66,594 jobs supported by the Seaway in the United States and Canada. Ontario businesses generated substantial revenue from maritime trade. Businesses earned roughly $4.2 billion in 2022 from the Seaway, money that helped fund $1.3 billion in purchases from local companies.
Every year, the Great Lakes region generates more than 50 per cent of our cross-border trade with the United States, totaling $278 billion, while supporting 51 million jobs. The Great Lakes - St. Lawrence region accounts for 30 per cent of combined Canadian and U.S. economic activity and employment. If it were a country, it would have the world’s third-largest gross domestic product (GDP).
The marine transportation industry stands at a crossroads, with technology and sustainability shaping its trajectory. As it navigates the complexities of trade, environmental stewardship, clean and inclusive growth, the industry must embrace innovation and collaboration to ensure a resilient and prosperous future. By doing so, it will not only continue to be a cornerstone of the global economy but also pave the way for a more sustainable and interconnected world.
SONAMI, an award-winning network of 11 post-secondary institutions, together with Niagara College’s School of Trades and WAMIC, is uniquely positioned to drive this evolution. By providing applied research funding, advanced resources, expert researchers, and workforce development opportunities, SONAMI empowers students with hands-on, experiential learning through academic programs and working at innovation centres—addressing the specific needs of the marine sector.
The event also created a platform for attendees to discuss sustainability and foster collaboration among industry leaders, post-secondary institutions, federal, provincial and municipal governments. This united approach is vital for ensuring a thriving and resilient future for Ontario’s marine sector.
