An Association For YOU
Navigating a New Era in Marine Innovation
British Columbia’s marine sector is evolving—fusing deep-rooted craftsmanship with forward-thinking innovation. Today’s industry is eco-conscious, technologically advanced, and brimming with opportunity. The Association of British Columbia Marine Industries (ABCMI) is here to champion that evolution, supporting businesses, workers, and communities as they chart a more sustainable and prosperous future along our Pacific Coast.
Key achievements from our foundational years include:
- Establishing Marine Fitter and Marine Electrician trades;
- Leading the BC Workforce Table on Shipbuilding and Ship Repair;
- Producing in-depth labour market and economic impact reports;
- Developing a comprehensive Human Resources Strategy;
- Creating community and Indigenous engagement strategies;
- and Designing industry-driven curriculum and entry-level training.
From this groundwork emerged ABCMI—a dynamic association dedicated to advancing innovation, collaboration, and excellence across Western Canada’s marine landscape.
ABCMI represents the breadth and depth of British Columbia’s industrial marine economy—a thriving sector made up of over 1,000 companies employing more than 22,000 workers. From shipbuilding to ocean science, the marine and defence sectors fuel innovation, global competitiveness, and the everyday well-being of British Columbians.
We represent businesses within six sub-sectors across Western Canada:
These companies not only sustain our economy but are producing world-leading products and services that are capturing the attention of international markets. Whether you’re an established leader or an emerging player, ABCMI is here to amplify your voice, advocate for your interests, and connect you with opportunity.
At ABCMI, we bring industry, government, and academia together to drive meaningful change. Our collaborative model is built on active engagement, strategic partnerships, and responsive leadership—ensuring that the sector’s voice is heard and its potential realized.
We operate with purpose and precision by:
- Enabling Workforce Development: ABCMI champions relationships and strategies which permanently enhance the development of stable, satisfying and desirable careers within British Columbia’s industrial marine sector in sufficient numbers to achieve the goals of the sector.
- Strategic Sector Advocacy: Through dialogue with the Government of British Columbia, ABCMI assists in the refinement and implementation of a sector strategy which enhances the capabilities and reach of British Columbia’s industrial marine sector.
- Supply Chain Development & Sustainability: ABCMI assists the broadening of British Columbia’s marine supply chain, focusing on areas in which our sector can be internationally, nationally and locally competitive and sustainable for Canada's growth.
- Curating Inclusive Member Services: ABCMI curates services and benefits expected by members, and deliver value which continues our member's continued participation in the Association.
Every action we take is grounded in our commitment to helping industrial marine companies succeed—and in turn, helping the sector thrive.
ABCMI exists to help you build and grow. As a member, you become part of a trusted network that is actively shaping the future of BC’s marine, ocean, and defence sectors. You don’t just gain access—you gain influence, support, and the strategic advantage of being seen and heard.
Together, we can:
- Open doors to new markets, buyers, and partnerships;
- Co-create a skilled and diverse workforce;
- Champion sustainability, innovation, and leadership in marine industries;
- Strengthen your competitive edge through insight and advocacy;
- and Increase the profile of your company here in BC to Canada and the rest of the Global market.
If you’re part of British Columbia’s industrial marine world, there’s a place for you here. Our members include shipyards and boatyards, marine repair facilities, fleet owners, ocean and marine technology innovators, service providers, consultants, labour groups, suppliers, manufacturers, educators, designers, engineers, naval architects, marine lawyers, policymakers, and public agencies.
No other organization represents the sector as fully as ABCMI. We connect every corner of BC’s industrial marine industry—driving collaboration, amplifying your voice, and creating opportunities that grow our collective prosperity.
Join BC's Marine Industry Leader Network
Be part of the only organization uniting every facet of BC’s industrial marine sector. Because together, we can make a difference.
Your voice matters—let’s amplify it together.
For more information, read our ABCMI Constitution and ABCMI Bylaws.