Over 120 ship workers are gathered in Owen Sound for the 122nd annual Shipmasters Conference.
It is being hosted by the Georgian Bay Lodge #15 of the International Shipmasters’ Association.
The convention brings together marine industry professionals, as well as commercial and regulatory bodies to talk about the future of the industry.
Erich Zuschlag is a Wheelsman for the Pelee Island Transportation Service, and is attending his first ever Shipmasters Conference.
He says he’s excited to learn from his mentors to have a better handle on the industry.
He says they will also exchange experiences and ideas that will improve their jobs, and also the lives, safety and careers of those coming into the marine industry in the future.
Zuschlag says those attending are coming from all over the Great Lakes, from Kingsville, Ontario, to Minnesota, Wisconsin, Illinois, and New York.
There will be discussions and workshops all through the weekend, and a “Pirates of Georgian Bay”-themed ball on Saturday night.
Zuschlag says the weekend wraps up Sunday afternoon when Algoma-Central President Greg White will speak at the Blessing of the Fleet.
It started on Wednesday, and is being held at the Days Inn in Owen Sound.
