FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
February 27, 2025 – The Seafarers’ International Union of Canada (SIU Canada) has launched a new nationwide recruitment campaign to attract new workers to the marine industry and strengthen Canada’s seafaring workforce. As demand for skilled maritime professionals grows, SIU Canada is calling on Canadians to consider a stable, high-paying career at sea—no prior experience required.
This new initiative will feature targeted social media campaigns, promotional videos, and outreach to high school graduates, career switchers, and underrepresented groups, including Indigenous communities, Arctic residents, women in trades, and new Canadian citizens.
“The marine industry is the backbone of Canada’s economy, and we need new workers now more than ever,” said Michael Given, President of SIU Canada. “Seafaring isn’t just a job—it’s a career with excellent wages, benefits, and opportunities for growth. Through this campaign, we want to show Canadians that a career at sea is more accessible than they think.”
Opportunities for All – No Experience Needed
One of the key focuses of this campaign is breaking down barriers to entry in the marine sector. Many Canadians are unaware that positions are available that require no prior experience, and training programs are available to help new recruits work their way up the ranks quickly.
Positions available through SIU Canada include: Deckhands, cargo handlers, mechanical assistants, cooks and galley staff, and many more career paths in the marine industry.
Seafarers enjoy competitive wages, extended time off, career advancement opportunities, and the security of working in a unionized environment.
A Call to the Next Generation of Seafarers
As part of the campaign, SIU Canada will be promoting its new recruitment video, which highlights the excitement, stability, and rewards of a career at sea.
Watch the video here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uHQodpl54E4
Canadians interested in launching their career at sea can learn more by visiting www.seafarers.ca or contacting careers@seafarers.ca for more information.
About the SIU of Canada: The Seafarers’ International Union of Canada (SIU) is affiliated with the Seafarers’ International Union of North America serving unlicensed sailors since 1938. The SIU Canada has been representing the majority of seafarers working aboard vessels on the Great Lakes, St. Lawrence River, East Coast, West Coast and Arctic since 1954. SIU members have acquired the reputation of being amongst the best-trained and most qualified sailors in the world. The SIU represents thousands of qualified seafarers across Canada.
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Source: Seafarers’ International Union of Canada
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