In collaboration with M2M Tech

Smart Seas & Stronger Teams: Tackling Challenges with AI & Leadership

A free, one-day, in-person workshop tailored for professionals in small to medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in ocean-based industries, and anyone curious about the intersection of AI and inclusive leadership.

This interactive event will explore how no-code AI tools and inclusive leadership strategies can help solve workforce challenges, streamline operations, and spark innovation in Canada’s growing blue economy.

Monday, July 14, 2025

8:30 AM – 4:30 PM PDT

Element Vancouver Metrotown

5988 Willingdon Avenue Burnaby, BC V5H 4V8

Event Agenda

  • Join us for a dynamic one-day event designed for professionals in small and medium-sized enterprises across the blue economy, or anyone interested in learning practical skills in AI implementation.  This event goes beyond the tech to spotlight how addressing systemic barriers to leadership—particularly for underrepresented groups—can unlock new solutions to workforce challenges. 

    Through interactive and engaging workshops, participants will gain practical insights into: 

    • How AI is being applied today to improve efficiency, sustainability, and safety in ocean-based industries 
    • The role of inclusive leadership in driving innovation and workforce resilience 
    • Strategies to remove barriers and build more equitable pathways to leadership in the blue economy 

     

    Learning Outcomes: 

    • Understand the role of AI in supporting operational efficiency for blue economy companies  
    • Identify AI tools relevant to business functions like communications, scheduling, and forecasting  
    • Use a no-code or low-code AI tool for a specific marine-related task  
    • Map potential areas in your organization where AI could reduce time, cost, or inefficiency  
    • Recognize key considerations for ethical and responsible AI use  
    • Explore how systemic barriers to leadership impact workforce development and innovation in the blue economy 
    • Recognize the value of inclusive leadership in fostering resilient, adaptive, and future-ready teams in ocean-related sectors 
    • Collaborate with peers across sectors to share knowledge, build networks, and co-create strategies for inclusive innovation in the blue economy

8:30 AM – 9:00 AM

Check In & Networking

9:00 AM – 10:30 AM

AI For Ocean Business

10:30 AM – 10:40 AM

Break

10:40 AM – 12:10 PM

AI For Ocean Business continued

12:10 PM – 1:00 PM

Lunch

1:00 PM – 2:30 PM

Leading the Shift: Building Inclusive Leadership Through Policy and Culture

2:30 PM – 2:40 PM

Break

2:40 PM – 4:10 PM

Leading the Shift: Building Inclusive Leadership Through Policy and Culture

4:10 AM – 4:30 PM

Closing & Networking

Why Attend?

Who Should Join?

Reserve Your Spot Today

Be Part of Canada's Ocean Future

Join our national alliance of professionals, researchers, and employers building a sustainable ocean workforce.