“Enhancing Human-Tech Balance in the Age of E-Navigation”
Marriott Montréal Chateau Champlain (1050 Rue De la Gauchetière, Montreal), January 28 and 29, 2026
The Shipping Federation of Canada held its 2026 edition of Mariners’ Workshop at the Marriott Chateau Champlain, in Montreal on January 28 & 29. This event brought together industry experts, government officials, and maritime professionals to discuss the latest operational, regulatory, and e-Navigation developments affecting ships trading to Canadian ports, with an emphasis this year on seafarer welfare and the human element of shipping.
Links:
Mariners’ Workshop 2026 Report
Article – Navigating the Human-Tech Balance – Griffintown Media
Study – Impact of Technology on Seafarers – World Maritime University
Presentations:
Session 1 – Seafarer Welfare in the Age of E-Navigation – Challenges and Opportunities
Isabelle Brassard – Fednav Ltd.
Capt. Raphael Baumler – World Maritime University
Capt. Aly Elsayed – The Nautical Institute
Session 2 – Federal Agencies – Updates on E-Navigation
Antonella Ferro – Canadian Coast Guard
Louis Malthais – Canadian Hydrographic Service
Alexandre Leduc – Transport Canada
Geoffrey Dunsworth – Environment and Climate Change Canada
Session 3 – PANEL – Maritime Autonomous Surface Ships – An Honest Discussion
Luc Tremblay – Transport Canada
Capt. Kristopher Drodge – Marine Institute of Memorial University
Session 4 – New Technology vs. Human Needs
Matthew Williams – International Marine Pilots Association
Simon Rivard – Maritime Simulation and Resource Centre
Capt. Kristopher Drodge – Marine Institute of Memorial University
Jack Meloche – St Lawrence Seaway Management Corporation
Session 5 – Port Collaborative Information Systems – Developer and User Updates
Krista Foster – Global Spatial Technology Solutions (GSTS)
Capt. Jonathon Pearce – OMC International
Pavel Skournik – Tidalis Americas
Capt. Corey Gleason & David Thomas – Halifax Port Authority & The PIER