Bringing Shipbuilding Back to Ontario

The Vanguard Podcast

In the latest episode of Vanguard Radio, host J. Richard Jones has a discussion with Ted Kirkpatrick, Director of Business Development and Government Relations, Heddle Shipyards about shipbuilding in Ontario, Team Vigilance eliminating the boom-and-bust cycles of shipbuilding and repair, and much more.

Ted Kirkpatrick, a seasoned maritime professional with a diverse background, joined Heddle Shipyards in 2019. In 2020, he assumed the role of Director of Business Development and Government Relations. Ted's journey began as a deckhand in 2012 with McKeil Marine, where he worked his way up to becoming a Captain and Navigation officer, obtaining his certificates while at sea.

Throughout his career, Ted has gained extensive experience on various vessels, from tugs to self-unloaders and pneumatic cement carriers. He has been actively involved in both vessel maintenance and operations, fostering deep connections within the Canadian commercial shipping industry.

In his current role, Ted is focused on enhancing Heddle's market presence and nurturing relationships with clients and government entities.

Heddle Shipyards is the largest Canadian ship repair and construction company on the Great Lakes operating shipyards in Hamilton, St. Catharines and Thunder Bay. A wholly Canadian owned company, Heddle has been in continuous operation since 1987 and is the leading vessel life cycle services provider on the Great Lakes. Their vision is to be recognized as the most reliable provider of ship repair and maintenance services in Canada and a meaningful partner in the shipbuilding industry.

In this episode:

• The state of shipbuilding in Ontario
• How the province can support the growth of the industry
• How Heddle preparing for increased shipbuilding work
• And more!