Ontario Shipyards recently visited Hanwha Ocean’s Geoje Shipyard in the Republic of Korea as part of ongoing efforts to advance strategic co-operation between the two organizations to experience firsthand the world-class shipbuilding technology and production capabilities of one of the world’s leading shipbuilders.
The Ontario Shipyards delegation included Dan Vyselaar, Senior Director of Technical Services, and Mathias Marcotte, Managing Director of Shipbuilding.
Representatives from both organizations held a series of working meetings focused on shipbuilding capability development, production planning, quality management, workforce development, smart shipyard operations and industrial modernization.
Discussions explored opportunities to strengthen Ontario Shipyards’ future shipbuilding capabilities through technology transfer, operational best practices, and infrastructure enhancement. Hanwha Ocean shared expertise in advanced production systems, automation technologies, project management, and shipyard operations, while both organizations examined opportunities to improve productivity, readiness, and long-term competitiveness.
Workforce development was a key area of focus. Following tours of Hanwha Ocean’s advanced welding training facilities and virtual reality simulation programs, both parties agreed to pursue future collaboration with Mohawk College aimed at supporting skilled trades development and introducing advanced training technologies to help build Canada’s next generation marine workforce.
“This visit provided valuable insight into the scale, expertise, and advanced capabilities that have made Hanwha Ocean a global leader in shipbuilding,” said Mathias Marcotte, Managing Director of Shipbuilding at Ontario Shipyards. “We see significant opportunity to leverage this partnership to accelerate capability development, strengthen workforce training, and support the long-term growth of Ontario’s shipbuilding sector.”
Through direct engagement with Hanwha Ocean’s technical, production, training, and project leadership teams, both organizations reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening industrial competitiveness, enhancing productivity, and supporting the long-term growth of Canada’s shipbuilding sector.
Choi Jung-hoon, Senior Vice President, Naval Ship Global Strategy Department at Hanwha Ocean, said, “Hanwha Ocean is committed to supporting Ontario Shipyards through the sharing of technical expertise, production knowledge, and workforce development practices. Together, we look forward to advancing initiative that strengthen shipbuilding capability and create long-term industrial value.”
(Photo from Ontario Shipyards)