Samuel Warren

Second-year Underwater Vehicles student Samuel Warren is this year’s recipient of the Jamie Klein Memorial Award.

In honour of the memory of Jamie Klein, this award was established to encourage youth on their own paths to change the world, celebrating students who are going an extra mile during their programs with passion, helping others, and sharing knowledge and insight.

“Growing up on the northern peninsula, I spent most of my free time out in boat with my father. Whether it was fishing, looking at icebergs, or just going for a ride, I loved all of it! As I grew older, my interest in technology, and my passion for the ocean, grew with me,” he said.

This summer, he was able to explore his interest in ocean technology with a work term with MI’s School of Ocean Technology.

“I had the opportunity to spend a week in Holyrood assisting with maintenance on an AUV. I also demonstrated and taught the Junior Mariners Summer Camp how to use the Deep Trekker ROV.”

As for the future, he is excited to further his education.

“I plan to complete my Bachelor of Technology (Engineering Technology and Applied Science). I want to pursue my education further by obtaining a master’s degree in Applied Ocean Technology (Ocean Mapping).”

Kayla Scott

Third-year Naval Architecture student Kayla Scott received the Genoa Values Award and the Daley Family Scholarship.

Before starting the Naval Architecture program, she worked in the culinary industry for nearly a decade.

“It might seem like a total 180 from my previous career, but in a way, it feels like a full circle moment. Since I was young, I’ve been fascinated with the design and engineering of vessels. Working on my own vessel design feels like a dream come true.”

Recipients of The Genoa Values Award must complete an essay describing how their experiences align with one of Genoa’s core values: Put People First, Create Lasting Relationships, Make a Difference, Own It, Live Well, and Never Stand Still. 

She related her change of career paths to the value Never Stand Still.

“My journey from one male dominated industry to another has shaped my desire to inspire other women who may be hesitant to enter the maritime industry. I hope that my experiences will demonstrate that women can succeed in industries where they are often underrepresented.” 

After graduation, she plans to pursue her Bachelor of Maritime Studies (Safety Management).

“I'm interested in the safety aspect of the industry and would like to work with the Transportation Safety Board or Transport Canada one day.” 

Megan Fiander

Second-year Nautical Science student Megan Fiander is this year’s recipient of the Cenovus Energy Future Leaders Award and the Algoma Central Corporation Scholarship.

Originally from Pouch Cove, she spent time on Fogo Island visiting family.

“My grandfather was a lifelong sailor, having spent most of his career as a Bosun onboard several factory freezer trawlers. In his retirement, he fished recreationally, instilling his love for the water in me. As I grew older, I decided to evolve my passion for the sea into a career.”

The Cenovus Energy Future Leaders Award provides recipients a financial award and will be given preference for work placement with Cenovus or its subcontractors.

“I like the idea of working for a local company, especially considering the offshore oil industry in Newfoundland is seeing many new projects in the future.”

For her first sea phase, she worked with Algoma.

“I sailed onboard the Captain Henry Jackman, one of Algoma's largest bulk carriers. Being on the Lakes allowed me to see things I could have never imagined,” she said. “Being in Nautical Science has allowed me to explore the world, extending my education to new levels daily!”

As for the future, she hopes to work her way up to a Master Mariner’s ticket and pursue a Bachelor of Maritime Studies.