AI Training Program Prepares New Workforce for Aquaculture Sector

As AI reshapes seafood farming, Excel Career College on Vancouver Island is preparing workers who can support both aquaculture innovation and ocean stewardship.

By Fabian Dawson
SeaWestNews

Artificial intelligence is rapidly reshaping how seafood is farmed along Canada’s coastlines. From salmon pens to shellfish hatcheries, farms are now using underwater cameras, machine learning, remote sensors, and automated feeding systems to monitor fish health, track water quality, detect disease early, and reduce waste.

But the shift demands a new kind of workforce. Seafood farmers across the country say they need people who understand both hands-on aquaculture and the digital tools now used to manage it. They are looking for workers who can collect data, operate monitoring systems, analyze environmental trends, and support sustainable growth on the water.

That need has led to new training programs designed to bridge the gap, including a first-of-its-kind initiative now underway at Excel Career College in the Comox Valley.

The 17-week AI in Aquaculture program blends traditional hatchery and farm operations with training in digital monitoring tools, environmental stewardship, and practical certifications needed for work on the water. It is designed to prepare a new generation of workers who can support both the science and the hands-on care that sustainable aquaculture relies on.

“The program represents a major step forward in preparing British Columbia’s aquaculture workforce for the future,” said Dr Biswajit Biswas, a program instructor at Excel.

“By blending traditional knowledge with advanced AI tools and industry certifications, we are offering a unique opportunity to drive innovation and sustainability in one of the province’s key sectors.”

The program was developed in partnership with industry to ensure graduates are job ready. Practicum placements link students with hatcheries, farms, research labs, technology firms, and   community-led marine initiatives across the coast.

During their practicum, students move from theory to practice by working directly with fish, technology, and the environment. They’ll gain experience in hatchery routines, AI-based monitoring, environmental management, and safety protocols, all under the guidance of industry professionals, said Dr Biswas, a registered professional biologist.

“We are excited by the success of this AI in Aquaculture program,” said Rob Fahlman, Excel’s Vice President of Academic Affairs.

“The success of this project was only possible from the work of our partners; Digital SuperCluster, BC Salmon Farmers Association and the Comox Valley Chamber of Commerce.

“We are eager to explore how to expand this program to a Pan-Canadian level.

“Aquaculture is such an integral part of the Canadian economy, that Canada needs to have a way to train workers for the future, while remembering how we share the land and water with our Indigenous friends. Together we are strong and can build the future.”

One of the students in the program, Danielle Redekop, said the training has opened new career pathways.

“I want to start by saying how grateful I am for this opportunity to share my experience,” she said. “As a mature student returning to school later in life, this journey has been both empowering and deeply personal. Thanks to Excel Career College, I have been able to grow both personally and professionally and take real steps toward my dream of becoming a Fisheries Officer with DFO Canada.”

Redekop said she was drawn to the program’s emphasis on stewardship.

“What drew me to the AI in Aquaculture program was its bold, forward-thinking approach to merging technology with environmental stewardship,” she said. “The curriculum does not just teach technical skills; it challenges us to think ethically, creatively, and collaboratively.”

She said she knew technology was being used in aquaculture, but not how far it had advanced.

“Before enrolling, I had a general sense that technology was playing a growing role in aquaculture. But I did not realize how advanced AI applications were becoming. What surprised me most was how these tools are not just about efficiency, they are about sustainability, transparency, and protecting ecosystems.”

Redekop will soon begin her practicum with Fisheries and Oceans Canada.

“I hope my practicum with Fisheries and Oceans Canada will give me the chance to connect classroom learning with real-world impact,” she said. “I want to see firsthand how AI and data tools are being used to support sustainable aquaculture.”

She said her goal is to become a Fisheries Officer.

“I want to be a bridge between technology and tradition, helping ensure that AI tools are used responsibly and transparently in coastal communities.”

Main image courtesy of Excel Career College