The Institut maritime du Québec (IMQ) and the Royal Canadian Navy (RCN) have announced the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) for the recognition of the Marine Mechanical Engineering Techniques program. This supports the training of the next generation of the Royal Canadian Navy as part of the Canadian Armed Forces’ subsidized study programs.
Thanks to this collaboration, students enrolled in the RCN will be able to receive high-level technical training at the Rimouski-based IMQ, while benefiting from financial support and supervision adapted to their military career.
The four-year Marine Mechanical Engineering Techniques program offered at the IMQ is recognized for the quality of its training, combining rigorous theoretical teaching and immersion in the realities of the maritime environment. It leads to a diploma of college studies issued by the Quebec Ministry of Higher Education.
The agreement provides for an adapted training path for students admitted to the IMQ who then wish to enrol in the RCN. This includes arrangements related to navigation periods that include both training and sea time adapted to meet the specific requirements of their career within the RCN.
This collaboration demonstrates a common desire to strengthen the training of the next generation in a strategic sector for Canada. It also makes it possible to promote the expertise of the IMQ as a leader in maritime training.
“This agreement reflects our commitment to developing a highly skilled next generation that is ready to meet the current and future needs of the maritime and defence sector. It positions the IMQ as an essential partner in the development of maritime skills in Canada,” said Mélanie Leblanc, Director of the IMQ.
For the MRC, this initiative is part of a proactive approach aimed at offering recognized and attractive training paths, particularly as part of their subsidized study programs, which allow students to reconcile training and commitment.
“Students have a double opportunity: they can combine their maritime studies with paid work experience while serving their country,” said Captain (Navy) Mathieu Leroux, Commanding Officer of the Eastern Region. “The sense of responsibility and discipline acquired within the Navy will strengthen the skills and knowledge acquired at the IMQ.”
“The Royal Canadian Navy has long been an important business partner for our institution, of which the IMQ is a part. This partnership will allow us to continue and deepen our relationship. I am convinced that the spinoffs will be very positive,” explains Julie Gasse, Director General of the Cégep de Rimouski.
Photo from left to right : Mme Julie Gasse, director general of the Cégep of Rimouski, Mélanie Leblanc, Director of IMQ, and Captain Mathieu Leroux, Commanding Officer of the Eastern Region.