Ocean Ambassador Program - Martin Bergeron

Can you describe what you do at Ocean Group?

As Captain - Pilot Boats at Ocean Group, I am responsible for the vessel used to transport marine pilots on the St. Lawrence to vessels entering or leaving port. My role is to guarantee the safety of the pilots, our deckhand and our vessel, and to ensure the safe transfer of pilots, whether on vessels at anchor or in motion.

Can you tell us about your career before joining Ocean Group?

My background is somewhat unusual. When I was younger and more handsome, I had the opportunity to serve three years in the Royal Canadian Navy as a reservist, which allowed me to continue my university studies in management. I trained as a deckhand and navigation officer and was able to operate small boats and destroyers in the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans.

After my time in the Armed Forces, I began my career in sales management for a variety of technologies, from telephony to IT security services. At the same time, I maintained a strong connection to the maritime environment as a volunteer with the Canadian Coast Guard Auxiliary. This is my 16^th year volunteering with the CCGA. I currently work primarily as a navigation and rescue instructor for the various units in Quebec.

In the end, it was my love of sailing that led me to change careers. I realized I had more fun sailing a volunteer rescue boat than meeting my business clients.

I obtained my basic certificate, SVOP, and then an opportunity with SSL presented itself: a 6-month contract, at night, on the construction of the new Samuel-de-Champlain Bridge, where I rubbed shoulders with Ocean Group: experts in their field, good people! Ocean Group was then added to my list of possibilities.

I finally decided to dedicate myself to the maritime world. I completed training courses that enabled me to work with passenger vessels and ferries. Then an opportunity arose close to home in Montreal: the position of Captain of Pilot Vessels with Ocean Group.

What attracted you to the marine industry?

I feel good when I am on a vessel, in nature, rain or shine, it is always beautiful!  I have the nicest corner office, and my desktop background changes constantly. 

What is the biggest challenge you have faced in your career so far?

Patience, especially when it comes to accumulating time at sea and the training required to progress from one certificate to the next. Sometimes I had to accept working on less interesting vessels, waiting to gain the necessary experience while attending training courses with often limited availability. But it was worth it! In just six years, I have obtained navigation certificates that now allow me to operate 25 different vessels, opening the door to a wide range of opportunities.