Question 1

What are the prerequisites?​

Accepted Answer

Applicants must be at least 18 years old, have completed grade 11 or an equivalent, and be a Canadian citizen or permanent resident. Students must also obtain a valid Transport Canada Marine Medical Examination (MME) and provide a clear criminal record check. Some recertification courses may have additional certification or physical requirements. Contact us for full program details.

Question 2

Is accommodation provided?

Accepted Answer

WAMTC offers student housing for those relocating to Hay River for training. Separate male and female bunkhouse accommodations are available, providing safe and affordable housing for enrolled students during their program.

Question 3

What is Transport Canada certification?

Accepted Answer

Transport Canada certification is the official credential required to work on commercial vessels in Canada. Transport Canada regulates the training, examination, and certification of all Canadian seafarers to ensure crews meet strict safety and competency standards under federal marine regulations. Training programs that meet these standards follow the Marine Personnel Regulations and align with the international STCW Convention (Standards of Training, Certification and Watchkeeping for Seafarers), which establishes global minimum qualifications for mariners working on merchant ships. At WAMTC, courses are designed to meet Transport Canada requirements, meaning graduates earn credentials recognized by employers across Canada’s marine industry and aligned with international maritime standards. This ensures students leave with the skills, safety training, and certification needed to work on commercial vessels in Canada.

Question 4

What support is available to students?

Accepted Answer

WAMTC support to students during training and assistance with their transitions into maritime careers. Students can access academic tutoring, resume and cover letter support, and interview coaching to confidently enter the marine workforce. Our team actively collaborates with industry partners to connect students to employment opportunities and cadetship pathways. To support daily life during training, WAMTC provides transportation to and from accommodations to the training facility. Staff also coordinate scheduled shuttle rides to the downtown core for groceries, recreational activities, and essential services. Throughout the program, students attend weekly presentations by industry partners and guest speakers. WAMTC directly connects students to employers, vessel operators, and maritime professionals, who share insights into careers at sea, recruitment opportunities, and seafarer rights and responsibilities aboard vessels.​ The goal of WAMTC is to ensure every student not only completes their training successfully but also acquires the knowledge, connections, and confidence needed to pursue a career in Canada’s marine industry.​

Launch Your Career in the Northern Fleet

Building the Arctic Workforce: Developing skilled northern mariners to support Canada’s marine industry, sovereignty, and supply chains.

Featured Programs

Empowering Northern Communities and Securing Arctic Waters

Student Resources & FAQ