Canadian Association of Diving Contractors

It seems to be a great time to be a diver! From the past year, all we have heard from the dive and marine contractors are “Where are the divers?” There is definitely a shortage of qualified and competent personnel in the industry right now. In fact, it has been that all year. There is a LOT of work out there right now and will continue into the new year.

The commercial diving personnel shortage of qualified divers – besides the increased demand for their talents –  is also due in part to closure of prominent training programs like Seneca College’s diving program and two facilities in the US. The scarcity of such training facilities significantly contributes to the reduced number of new, skilled divers entering the workforce. These events happened over the last two years, and we are feeling it’s effects now. The limited number of commercial diving schools to take up the slack across the country further exacerbates the issue, restricting the training opportunities available for aspiring divers.

This shortage poses multiple challenges and risks in the industry. As the demand for commercial diving work increases, there is a concern that companies might employ undertrained divers, leading to illegal operations and heightened safety risks, including potentially fatal accidents. The role of commercial divers is critical in various infrastructure projects such as water treatment, facilites maintenance, nuclear facilities, and new underwater construction, means their shortage can have widespread economic and operational impacts. Moreover, the necessity for divers to periodically seek recertification—now potentially requiring relocation due to the closure of local training centers—adds an additional hurdle, possibly deterring individuals from pursuing or continuing careers in commercial diving.

This issue of the CADC magazine showcases the CADC member dive schools who specialize in the skills required to operate both in and outside our borders.

The cover story highlights standout commercial diving schools in Canada. Atlantic Commercial Diving Centre (ACDC) in Prince Edward Island excels in underwater welding and offers state-of-the-art facilities. The Commercial Diving Institute of Canada (CDI), based in British Columbia, is affiliated with heavy civil and offshore sectors, providing internationally recognized training. DiveSafe International, arguabley Canada’s largest dive school, located on Vancouver Island, exceeds CSA and DCBC standards, offering in-ocean training in real-world conditions. Lastly, the Institut Maritime du Québec (IMQ) provides college-level marine sector training, featuring a variety of natural learning environments and state-of-the-art equipment. Each school has unique offerings, contributing significantly to the training of skilled commercial divers.

Our featured CADC member “Expertech Marine,” founded by CADC director Marc-André Désy in 2008, is a one-stop-shop located in Québec City, specializing in underwater operations for port, industrial, and municipal infrastructure. Désy, a former commercial diver turned metallurgical engineer, established the company post-recovery from a severe motorcycle accident. Expertech employs 30 people, including 20 divers, and emphasizes teamwork and a family-like atmosphere. The company’s success is attributed to continuous investment and a strong team. It adheres to CSA standards and actively participates in the Canadian Association of Diving Contractors (CADC), valuing safety, performance, and community connections. Looking ahead, Désy plans to launch Expertech Erosion, focusing on innovative concrete mat solutions for erosion control and environmental restoration.

Sub-250g drones, compact yet powerful, are carving a new niche in operational efficiency and safety. An article by Doug Elsey of the Canadian Association of Diving Contractors, showcases these mini drones that are challenging preconceived notions with their surprising capabilities. From enhancing site surveys to aiding in search and rescue missions, these tiny technological marvels are not just a novelty but a vital tool, reshaping the landscape of underwater operations. As we delve into this story, we explore how these small drones are making a big splash in the commercial diving world by our CADC members.

Brain-dead or just “forgetful”? In a dynamic twist on the world of commercial diving, David Parkes, CEO of the Diver Certification Board of Canada, addresses a pressing issue: the rapid forgetting of crucial skills by dive school graduates. Highlighting the challenges contractors face with newly trained divers, he emphasizes the necessity of repeated practice in using dive tables and maintaining accurate logbooks. This article delves into the critical role of contractors in reinforcing these skills, underscoring the importance of a supportive post-training environment to ensure that the training ‘sticks’, and the diver’s potential isn’t wasted. It’s a tale of skill retention, industry standards, and the journey from classroom to real-world application.

Seneca College’s Underwater Skills Program, a beacon of diving excellence since 1974, faces a transformative chapter. Amidst the shock of its announced closure in 2023, an overwhelming wave of support from the diving community ignited. This support, encompassing petitions, letter campaigns, and strong advocacy, highlighted the program’s profound impact. While the closure decision was upheld, this story is not about an end but a remarkable pivot to resilience and evolution. Embracing a private model, the program prepares to reinvent itself, maintaining its commitment to excellence and shaping the future of professional diver training. Aaron Griffin marks a new era, celebrating 50 years of legacy and heralding a fresh start in diver education. Things are just starting!

It’s important to reflect on the resilience and adaptability our community has shown. The world of commercial diving, much like the oceans we work in, is ever-changing and full of surprises. Despite the challenges we’ve faced, from training shortages to adapting new technologies, our spirit remains unshaken. Our industry’s future is bright, buoyed by the dedication and expertise of each member in this incredible community. As we sail into the new year, let’s carry this momentum forward, continuing to innovate, excel, and above all, ensure the safety and well-being of every diver. To all our members, partners, and friends in the diving world, I extend my heartfelt wishes for a Happy and Safe New Year. Here’s to making a splash in 2024, diving into opportunities with the same courage and determination that defines us. Happy New Year!

Download or read the magazine online: https://magazines.matrixgroupinc.net/cadc/

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