Waterways are an important part of life in the Northwest.
And in order to operate even a small commercial vessel, you have to be certified. Fortunately, for the first time a Small Vessel Operator Proficiency course is being offered in Northern Ontario this year and people seem to be climbing aboard.
Marine safety instructor Mitch Miller has been teaching the four-day program around the province in order to fill a training gap that he saw in the North.
Miller brings his expertise from his affiliation with the Western Maritime Institute and 12 seasons aboard Great Lakes freighters.
He said there are a variety of students in each of the training programs, from construction crews to fishing guides.
The course wraps up Friday, and upon successful completion, the participants will be certified for life.
(Thunder Bay Television)
