Who We Are
About WAMTC
The Western Arctic Marine Training Centre (WAMTC) is dedicated to building a skilled northern marine workforce through high quality training programs that meet Transport Canada certification standards. Based in Hay River, Northwest Territories, WAMTC prepares students with the practical skills, safety training, and industry knowledge needed to succeed in Canada's growing maritime sector.
Through hands on instruction, strong industry partnerships, and direct pathways to employment, WAMTC connects northern talent with meaningful careers at sea while supporting economic development across northern communities.
Certifications
Transport Canada
Multiple TC-certified training programs
Reach
Northern Communities
Training delivered across Canada’s north
Method
Hands-on Training
Real-world exercises and classroom learning
Outcome
Career-Focused
Prepared for marine transportation careers
Overview
WAMTC
Northern Canadians depend on their coasts and waterways for sustenance, to receive critical supplies, and to deliver products to market. Indigenous coastal communities share centuries of cultural ties to Canada’s oceans and waterways.
Across Canada’s northern territories and around the world, there is a great need yet a limited supply of qualified seafarers. Development of a qualified northern marine workforce to support and sustain northern business is a crucial objective of the Western Arctic Marine Training Centre.
Why it matters:
- Supports northern communities and Indigenous coastal traditions
- Addresses the critical shortage of qualified seafarers
- Prepares students for success in marine transportation careers
Programs
Training & Certifications
WAMTC offers marine training and multiple Transport Canada (TC) certifications to a broad spectrum of northern residents, made possible by funding from TC’s Oceans Protection Plan.
- Transport Canada certifications for qualified seafarers
- Comprehensive curriculum covering essential maritime skills
- Industry-recognized credentials that open career pathways
- Training aligned with Transport Canada standards and regulations
What Guides Us
Philosophy & Values
Our Philosophy
At WAMTC, our training philosophy is simple: prepare students for real work on the water. Our programs are designed to reflect the expectations, responsibilities, and conditions of working aboard commercial vessels so that graduates enter the industry confident and job ready.
- Real world training environments that reflect actual vessel operations
- Clear understanding of shipboard expectations, safety procedures, and crew responsibilities
- Practical preparation for careers aboard working vessels in Canada’s marine industry
By replicating the realities of life at sea, WAMTC ensures students graduate with the skills, discipline, and confidence needed to succeed in professional maritime careers.
Indigenous Engagement
WAMTC works closely with Indigenous communities, governments, and development corporations across the North to ensure training opportunities are accessible, respectful, and responsive to community needs. Our programs are designed to support Indigenous participation in the marine sector while recognizing the knowledge, experience, and leadership that northern communities bring to Canada\u2019s maritime future.
- Culturally respectful training environments that support student success
- Active partnerships with Indigenous communities and organizations across the North
- Inclusive programming that supports Indigenous participation in marine careers
Through collaboration and community engagement, WAMTC helps create sustainable career pathways for Indigenous and northern students in Canada\u2019s growing marine industry.
Where We Train
Training Facilities
Location
Hay River, NWT
What’s on-site
Extensively equipped Marine Training Centre
Regional delivery
Courses delivered in communities across the north
Accessibility
Training brought directly to students where they live
Visiting Hay River?
Our primary training facility is located at Hay River’s Marine Training Centre, which features extensive equipment and resources for comprehensive maritime training. For more information about visiting or accessing our facilities, please contact us.
Get Started
Ready to get started?
Join WAMTC and launch your career in the Northern Fleet with fully funded, Transport Canada–certified maritime training.