Ocean Ambassador Program - Pierre-Luc Poulin

What is your current role at Ocean Group?

I am a deckhand based in Montreal where I am mainly responsible for the maintenance of our tugs and helping to keep the daily operations running smoothly. I am also available to go out on a tug when needed.

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

Before joining Ocean Group, I had only one career as an Olympic sprint kayaker. I had the honour of representing Canada in seven World Championships and two Olympic Games. When I started thinking about my career after sports, I was naturally drawn to the marine industry. I always knew I wanted to be part of an environment where I could combine sports and work. I wanted freedom and to be close to the water in my daily life. When I discovered Ocean Group, I saw a perfect opportunity to make this project a reality. The organization supported my participation in the recent Paris 2024 Olympic Games, allowing me to pursue my athletic ambitions while starting a new career.

Can you share with us a highlight of your career at Ocean Group?

One of the highlights of my career with Ocean Group took place in January 2024. We left Montreal to tow the BBC Georgia to Cap-Chat. On the way back, we towed the Maisonneuve 2 back to Montreal. The life on board, the close collaboration with the crew, and the lessons learned during this trip made a very good impression on me. But beyond the marine operations, what touched me the most was the support of the entire company when I was involved in the 2024 Olympic Games. Seeing all my colleagues pulling together to wish me luck showed me what a big family Ocean Group is.

How do you think your work impacts the team and the company as a whole?

Just as it takes a village to raise an Olympic athlete, it takes a big family to drive a company like Ocean Group. I firmly believe that every employee plays a key role in our collective success. As a deckhand, I always give 100% to contribute to the efficiency of the team. It's just another gear that keeps us moving in the right direction! The concepts of teamwork and mutual support have always been a priority for me as an athlete, and I try to apply these values to my daily work.

What are your short- and long-term career goals at Ocean Group?

I see a bright future for myself at Ocean Group. I quickly developed a passion for the maritime industry from the moment I joined the company. This is why I have started preparing for my exams with Transport Canada to become a Captain. My goal is to obtain a 150-ton certificate by the end of 2025. After that, sailing hours and internal opportunities will guide my career.

Follow Pierre-Luc on social media

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