Colin Frank

Second year Fisheries Science PhD candidate Colin Frank is the first ever recipient of the Kevin Anderson School of Fisheries Graduate Award at this year’s event.

“I felt that this award was encouraging as it supports younger scientists in fisheries, a field that means so much to me,” said Mr. Frank.

Originally from Raymond, Washington, Mr. Frank moved to Newfoundland nearly five years ago. Before pursing doctoral studies, he worked as a marine biologist in Washington, Alaska and Florida. He was also a commercial fisher for 10 years.

“As a former commercial fisher, I loved the idea of working with fisheries in an academic setting. Many fishers and managers swear by certain gears and methods. But here in Centre for Sustainable Aquatic Resources (CSAR), we prove it,” he said of his decision to enroll in the Fisheries Science program.

Fieldwork and the collaboration with industry are some of his favourite aspects of the program. “I love whenever I have a chance to participate in fieldwork. When I see animals for the first time that I have only read about, I am overcome with joy.”

After completing his program, Mr. Frank hopes to pursue a post-doctoral fellowship and do some travelling. His ultimate goal is to work as a fisheries scientist for his tribe, the Quinault Indian Nation in Washington state.

“Carpe diem, seize the carp!”

Brady Synard

Fourth year Nautical Science student Brady Synard is this year’s recipient of the MST Achievement Award. This award is presented to a Nautical Science or Marine Engineering student who demonstrates academic achievement.

“I was encouraged to apply for this award after having spent a large portion of my work term on board MST vessels, shuttling crude oil from the offshore platforms back to our territorial waters,” said Mr. Synard.

Prior to enrolling in the Nautical Science program, Mr. Synard says he had never been aboard a ship before. “I’m not from a sea-going family. But when deciding where I wanted to go in life, originality was an important factor."

Now, he says being at sea during work terms is his favourite aspect of the program.

“One of my favourite experiences was taking part in ship-to-ship (STS) operations on shuttle tankers. I was familiar with the concept, however, the sheer size of the ships that we were mooring together and the number of additional personnel required to complete the job was amazing.”

Following graduation, Mr. Synard is excited to return to sea and start his career. He plans to begin working to advance his ticket through Chief Mate and eventually Master Mariner.

Piratat Wongsawasdi

Piratat Wongsawasdi, a second-year Naval Architecture student, received the Genoa Values Scholarship and the Anton Snarby Memorial Bursary.

Before starting the Naval Architecture program, Mr. Wongsawasdi completed a health sciences program in Bangkok, Thailand.

“This is an eye-opening experience to switch from learning about biology and people to math, physics and designing projects,” he said.

A lifelong interest in ships, boats, sailing and everything maritime inspired Mr. Wongsawasdi to pursue a diploma at the Marine Institute.

“The acceptance letter was like a giant leap for me. It let me sneak outside of my comfort zone and away from my hometown to pursue my dream on the other side of the world,” he said.

Recipients of The Genoa Values Scholarship 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.

“These values perfectly align with my personal philosophy. Never stand still, overcoming new challenges and embrace each day as a new opportunity to learn and grow are exactly what I try to do.”

After completing his program, Mr. Wongsawasdi hopes to pursue a career in Canadian shipbuilding, further his education and contribute to the advancement of maritime technology.