SAMM Towage, a tugboat service provider operating in British Columbia, marked a historic moment for the maritime industry with its first all-female tugboat crew on a journey from Prince Rupert to Stewart. Captain Hailey McIntyre and deckhand Ocean Rutherford embarked on the 12-hour voyage, assisting with vessel docking and undocking upon arrival. This milestone reflects the coastal industry’s openness to diversity, offering many opportunities for those interested in pursuing careers in the marine industry. SAMM Towage Canada’s director of operations, Brook Walker, expressed pride in celebrating this unique occurrence in the company’s 70 years of history, highlighting the company’s commitment to inclusivity. Recruiting local mariners is becoming increasingly difficult and we are working with the Western Marine Community Coalition members and governments in evolving and executing a workforce recruitment and retention strategy.

Courtesy of BC Chamber of Shipping